aromatherapy questions and answers

... 3 Pam Walford Faith graham The basic structure of an essential oil: Essential oils molecules are made up primarily of carbon, hydrogen, and oxygen. The aromatic constituents of essential oils are built from hydrocarbon chains (carbon and hydrogen atoms). They are normally joined together in ring-like chemical structures. The chains are held together by carbon atoms linked together. Oxygen, hydrogen, nitrogen, sulphur, and other carbon atoms attach at various points of the chain, to make up the different oils. The effects of on the skin threw sensitisation, irritation and toxicity: Toxicity: Refers to poisoning, which can become fatal, whether through the skin, oral, or other methods, and is dose-dependent. A less than lethal dose can also cause liver and kidney damage especially when used over a long period of time. Toxicity is dose-dependent, as follows: Acute toxicity occurs after a single dose or application and chronic toxicity occurs over a period of time, weeks, months, or years

want to read more? →