Essential oils are amazing evolutionary bi-products of the plants around us. They are made up of volatile molecules that contribute to fragrance and taste. These oils are housed in small sacks on the plants themselves and can be used to attract insects for pollination, ward against micro-organisms and even allow plants to “talk” to each other and say that predators are coming. For an oil to be called “essential oil,” it must have been separated via steam distillation or expression, unadulterated, and genuine.
We do not manufacture our products ourselves. We source our products from multiple manufacturing facilities. Our sourcing company then obtains "Certified USDA Organic" certification. If you want more information, send an email to info@nexonbotanics.com
- Enfleurage: One of the oldest extraction methods. It is rarely used today because it is costly and time-consuming. This method utilizes fatty acids and alcohol to “extract” the oil from the plant. The end product is called an “Enfleurage.”
- Steam Distillation: The most common and widely used process of separating an essential oil is steam distillation. Steam is passed through tightly packed plant material, causing the plant's “oil sacs” to burst, which releases its contents as a vapor. This vapor is cooled, and as it condenses, the essential oil and water separate. The oil and water are separated and filtered. The end product is called “Essential oil.”
- Hydro-distillation: This is very similar to Steam distillation, with the only real difference being that the plant material is boiled in water. This method works best for some plants, such as roses.
- Expression or Cold Pressed: Used primarily for citrus fruits where the essential oil is obtained in tiny pockets in the peel or rind. Oils extracted by cold pressing are mostly made up of monoterpenes compounds that can evaporate quickly when exposed to air. The end product is called “Essential oil.”
- CO2 Extraction: CO2s, for short–these extracts are produced by using supercritical carbon dioxide extraction methods. Carbon Dioxide can is pressurized to become a liquid, which acts as a solvent and dissolves the natural components present in the plant material. After this is completed, CO2 returns to its gaseous state, leaving behind the oil. The advantage of this process is that heat is not used, and no constituents are damaged. The two main types of Co2’s are CO2 Selects (lower pressure) and CO2 Totals (high pressure). The end product is called a “CO2”.
- Absolutes: These oils are extracted from plant material using chemical solvents such as hexane. The solvents are later removed, with only traces remaining. Absolutes give the advantage of carrying over some compounds that are too heavy in steam distillation. Absolutes tend to be more potent than steam distilled essential oils. The end product is called an “Absolute.”
There are many ways to use essential oils that include:
- Aromatherapy Massage: The most popular way to use essential oils is through massage. Properly dilute your oil in a carrier oil as a base and begin massaging to release tension and relieve anxiety.
- Bath: Adding 6-10 drops to a warm bath can create a relaxing and therapeutic experience.
- Inhalation: Add essential oil to a diffuser of your choice. Sit back, relax, and breathe in deeply.
Please keep in mind that there are no essential oils that have received approval by the FDA for internal use. Essential oils are highly concentrated chemical solvents. We do not recommend using essential oils internally, just like we would never recommend anyone drink fingernail polish remover. The only appropriate time to consider the internal use of essential oils would be under direct recommendation by a health care practitioner trained at an appropriate clinical level. A proper level of training must include chemistry, anatomy, diagnostics, physiology, formulation guidelines, and safety issues regarding each specific internal route (oral, vaginal, or rectal). | The Alliance of International Aromatherapists (AIA) |
Nexon Botanics does not recommend ever using essential oils during pregnancy. In contrast, there have been no recorded cases of miscarriage or congenital disabilities resulting from aromatherapy massage using therapeutic applications of any essential oil (Kurt Schnaubelt, Ron Guba, Chrissie Wildwood). There is a lack of clear information regarding the toxicity of essential oil during and directly after pregnancy. We recommend avoiding Wormwood, Rue, Oakmoss, Lavandula stoechas, Camphor, Parsley Seed, Sage, Hyssop, Aniseed, Basil ct. Estragole, Birch, Camphor, Hyssop, Mugwort, Parsley seed or leaf, Pennyroyal, Tansy, Tarragon, Thuja, Wintergreen, Wormwood oils throughout your Pregnancy, Labor, and while Breastfeeding. The above statement is supported by the NAHA (National Association for Holistic Aromatherapy).
We believe that it is important to keep in mind that essential oils are highly concentrated volatile compounds, which means they can be potentially toxic to pets at certain concentrations. Cats can be especially sensitive to essential oils. What is safe for you to use may not necessarily be safe to use on or near your pet, as your pet can inadvertently inhale, lick, or ingest these essential oils. Your pet can react differently to these substances than you do, so you must talk to your veterinarian before using them around your pets.
When storing your oils, the most important things to consider are heat and light. The cooler you keep your oils, and the less they are in the sunlight, the longer they will last. Some people even use their refrigerators! Always make sure to tightly seal your oils to avoid oxidation, as this can fundamentally change your oil.
This depends on a lot of different factors.
- How is oil stored?
- How often do you open the bottle?
- What is the chemical makeup of the oil?
For daily use, facial application, long term use, full-body application, 1% dilution rate of essential oils is recommended:
1% DILUTION:
2 DROPS OF ESSENTIAL OIL WITH 1 TABLESPOON OF CARRIER OIL
Applying essential oils directly onto the skin can cause skin irritation and
sensitivity. Dilute essential oils with carrier oils before topical application
to avoid skin sensitivity and adverse reactions.
Carrier oils are natural, plant-based oils. They are known for their mild scent and therapeutic properties, making them suitable for various skin types and aromatherapy purposes. A popular use of carrier oils is essential oil dilution to avoid skin irritations. Carrier oils help carry the essential oil onto the skin, reducing the risk of irritation.
Yes, our carrier oils are extracted through the cold pressing method. Cold pressing involves mechanically pressing the oil from the plant material without using heat, preserving its natural properties. However, there are several other methods to extract carrier oils such as expeller pressing or solvent extraction.
Our carrier oils are extracted without the use of hexane, ensuring a pure and natural product for your use. Hexane is a chemical solvent sometimes used in oil extraction processes, but its absence from our production guarantees a safer choice for everyone.
The shelf life of carrier oils typically ranges from 2 to 3 years, depending on the type of oil and storage conditions.
Store carrier oils in a cool, dark place, away from direct sunlight and heat sources. Tightly seal the container to prevent air exposure. It will help maintain the quality and extend the shelf life of oils.