needs, and the oil, or more typically a blend of oils, is then delivered in a way that
will most directly address the patient’s concern.Essential Oils
Essential oils are volatile liquids that are distilled or cold pressed from plants.
Although chemically they are oils and as such do not mix with water, the term oil is
somewhat misleading, since they feel like water rather than oil. Varying amounts of
essential oil can be extracted from a particular plant, which influences the price of
the oil. For example, it takes 220 pounds of rose petals to furnish less than two
ounces of the essential oil. Other plants such as lavender or eucalyptus give a much
greater proportion. One half ounce of rose oil may cost $200 while the same amount
of orange oil may cost only a few dollars. Table 9.1 shows the many different plants
parts from which oils are extracted.Table 9.1 Waste Not, Want Not: Plant Parts That Yield Essential Oils
Plant Part Oils Extracted
Leaves Eucalyptus, peppermint
Flowers Lavender, rose
Blossoms Orange, neroli
Fruits Lemon, mandarin
Grasses Lemongrass
Wood Camphor, sandalwood
Barks Cinnamon
Gum Frankincense
Bulbs Garlic, onion
Dried flower buds CloveEssential oils are stored in tiny pockets between plant cell walls. As the plant releases
the oil, it circulates through the plant and sends messages that help it function effi-
ciently. Oils activate and regulate such activities as cellular metabolism, photosyn-
thesis, and cellular respiration. They may also trigger immune responses to assist in
coping with stressful changes in the environment and climate. Some oils protect the
plant from predators, especially microorganisms, and in so doing are essentially
antibacterial, antiviral, and antifungal. Some oils protect the plant by repelling
harmful insects while others attract insects or animals that are useful for propaga-
tion.118 ABSOLUTE BEGINNER’S GUIDE TOALTERNATIVE MEDICINE