What are herbal essential oils?

Herbal essential oils come from a large variety of fresh and fragrant herbs and herbaceous plants grown around the world, mainly in areas such as the Mediterranean and middle east. 

Many pure herbal essential oils, including popular choices such as rosemary, peppermint, and basil, are known for their restorative properties as well as their diverse list of functional benefits for the mind, the body, and the home.Most herbaceous oils are extracted via steam distillation, ranging from fresh, invigorating decongestants to sweet and pungent scents.

What are herbal essential oils good for?

Many of our herbal essential oils list a variety of different properties, from their abilities as insect repellents to culinary uses.

In general, however, herbal essential oils are known to:

• Nourish skin
• Improve memory and focus
• Reduce stress
• Fight bacteria, viruses, and toxins

Certain mint essential oils such as peppermint and spearmint are also known for their decongestant properties, helping them to relieve a tight chest and allow for easier breathing.

What is the difference between herbal extracts and essential oils?

Many people wonder what the difference between a herbal extract and a herbal essential oil is, as on the surface they seem quite similar. However, the difference is really quite a simple one.

Essential oils are pure and natural substances, often extracted via steam distillation from the plant itself. Extracts, on the other hand, are diluted, lighter versions of infusion, as they are usually made in a similar way to tea; by steeping the herb in water, alcohol, or oil.