THE DIFFERENCE BETWEEN ESSENTIAL OILS AND FRAGRANCE OILS

Written by: Amy Ann

Maybe you've thought about it and wondered what's the difference between essential oils and fragrance oils? We would assume they're both the same. Turns out that's not the case. So we're here to clarify any of those questions you may of had between essential oils and fragrance oils.

What are Essential Oils:

Essential oils are highly concentrated substances found in various parts of plants such as the leaf, stem, bark, wood, and etc. The process of getting essential oils is done by a steam distillation. After distillation, the outcome is a highly concentrated portion of essential oil, which will have the characteristic fragrance and properties of the plant from which it was extracted, and contain the true essence of the plant it came from.

Essential oils are not only plant based but also contain the plant's smell as well as the plant’s healing properties. This is one of the main reasons why essential oils are found in aromatherapy. In aromatherapy pure essential oils are used in a way to positively affect physical, emotional and mental health. When they enter the body through the skin (via massage or bath) it can help enhance one's mood, relieve symptoms such as pain, fatigue or inflammation.

What are Fragrance Oils:

Fragrance oils are blended synthetic aroma compounds. Due to the costly process of essential oils, fragrance oils are commonly used primarily in the manufacture of perfumes, cosmetics and flavorings. Unfortunately fragrance oils do not produce therapeutic benefits that essential oils offer. 

So it turns out there's a huge difference between both. Essential oils are processed through a more natural process, where as fragrance oils aren't. Synthetic products can be cheaper to produce and more convenient (for example polyester fabric) but may have drawbacks such as added chemicals and environmental hazard. Natural products might be better quality (for example wool) but harder to obtain in large quantities.

Was this article helpful for you? Pass the knowledge around to your family and friends.