A R O M A T H E R A P I S T  O N  C A L L
 Lora Cantele, RA
 

What's the difference between an absolute and an essential oil?

An essential oil is a substance that has been extracted from a plant through the means of distillation (lavender and rosemary) or expression/cold pressing (the peels of citrus fruits). An absolute is a substance that has been extracted through the process of enfleurage which uses a solvent. In enfleurage, flower petals are layered in wax or clean animal fats. The wax or fat then becomes saturated with the oil from the petals or plant material over several days. The process is then repeated by replacing the spent botanicals with fresh ones until the fat has reached a desired degree of fragrance saturation. The scented fat or wax fat is now called a pomade. The pomade is washed or soaked in a solvent (ethyl alcohol) to draw the fragrant molecules into the alcohol, thus creating a concrete. The alcohol is then separated from the fat or wax and allowed to evaporate. The result is an absolute. Absolutes differ from essential oils in that their perfume is stronger and they can be used in lower concentrations. Absolutes are used most often in perfumery.

Is it necessary to do a patch test before you begin using essential oils?
 
The answer to this question is very controversial. Previous school of thought advises one to do a skin patch test to see if any sensitivity occurs. However, in doing a skin patch test, you could be adding to the possible sensitization of that person. Sensitivity or irritation is a direct result of contact with a particular oil and is apparent at the site of where the oil came in contact with the skin. Sensitization involves the immune system. It has a tendency to manifest as an allergic skin reaction. It may not be apparent the first time one is in contact with a particular oil, but becomes apparent when that same oil (or similar oil) is reintroduced to the same individual. The individual’s immune system recognizes that particular oil as a threat and produces a skin reaction. The immune system can also be triggered when a similar irritant is introduced. For example, those with hay fever or ragweed allergies can experience a similar reaction from the aroma of chamomile or yarrow. The response could be in the form of a skin rash or eczema.
 

What is therapeutic blending?

Therapeutic blending is blending a synergy of two or more essential oils to achieve a specific therapeutic purpose. The final aroma is secondary to the blend itself. This is in contrast to blending for perfumery, which is blending with the primary intent of creating a fragrant aroma and its therapeutic benefit is of no consequence.

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