Suppliers of Essential Oils Key Terms

Learn and understand the basics of the essential oil business

By Sherry Grant

Essential oils are natural substances taken from flowers, trees, herbs and spices. They are extracted through steam distillation. The essential oils supplier services massage therapists, spas, shops and various other businesses. It is important to be sure that your essential oils are of a quality grade whether you are a distributor or a consumer. Essential oils are sold by type; the four most common classifications are cosmetic essential oils, therapeutic essential oils, massage oils and aromatherapy oils. Therapeutic-grade essential oils are the most expensive due to the distillation process. Aromatherapy and cosmetic oils are the most popular, while massage oils are mainly used by professionals.

Therapeutic-grade essential oils

Therapeutic-grade essential oils have powerful healing properties. They are anti-bacterial, anti-viral and immune stimulating. Therapeutic-grade essential oils are created by preserving as many of the aromatic compounds as possible during the distilling process, and they're originally derived from grasses, resins, flowers and shrubs.
Try: Anson Aromatic Essentials discusses the differences between therapeutic olis and organic oils. The Real Essentials also offers quality information regarding therapeutic-grade essential oils.

Aromatherapy oils

Aromatherapy oils are mainly used for relaxation, purification and energy. Aromatherapy is a form of alternative medicine that uses essential oils from plants to affect a person's mood, mental state and physical health. It is important to use aromatherapy oils properly. They are potent and can cause changes and reactions in the body.
Try: Aura Cacia provides a glossary of terms common in aromatherapy. The Ananda Apothecary offers the aromatherapy client information and a valuable section on how to use essential oils.

Cosmetic essential oils

Cosmetic essential oils are essential oils that are placed in cosmetics such as soaps, bath oils, spa wares and sea salts. Essential oils are used to enhance the product and replace less natural ingredients. Cosmetics made from essential oils also include candles and a variety of other products manufactured in the personal care industry.
Try: Nature's Gift has an information section as well as skincare tips and suggestions for the client. Greenspace Candles gives information on candles made from soy and essential oils.

Massage oils

Essential oils are inserted into massage oils to increase the therapeutic effects of a massage. Massage oils made from essential oils are intended to soothe the body as well as the senses. You can choose an essential oil massage that is invigorating, energizing, relaxing or purifying.
Try: The Aromatherapy Place discusses grapeseed and almond oil, among others. Click on the massage oil of your choice for a complete description.

Ayurvedic medicine

Ayurveda is the ancient Hindu science of health and medicine that has been practiced for more than 5,000 years. It emphasizes hygiene, herbal preparations and yoga. Ayurveda theorizes that all disease begins with stress or an imbalance in the body and mind. Essential oils are used in ayurvedic medicine for their ability to transport healing to the body's cells and tissues.
Try: AyurBalance gives a comprehensive review of ayurvedic medicine and its use of essential oils. You can also click on "explore" to learn more about ayurvedic medicine in general.

Aromatic burners

Aromatic burners are used to vaporize essential oils. They mask smells and create a pleasant and relaxing fragrance. Aromatic burners work by inserting the oil of choice into the burner tray. As the burner heats the oil, it provides a soothing, relaxing aroma for the area in which you live or work.
Try: Quinessence Aromatherapy provides an explanation of aromatic burners and their use.