When talking with folks about flower essences it has been my experience that many people often confuse flower essences with essential oils.  It is such a common occurrence that I always expect to give them a short primer on what flower essences are and how they differ from essential oils.  While essential oils and flower essences can complement each other they are each unique in there therapeutic applications. And, they are different in how they are made and how they are used.

Essential oils are aromatic compounds found in plants.  They are found in the roots, leaves, bark, berries, resins, fruits and flowers of  plants.  They are extremely chemically complex containing hundreds of compounds. It is the unique chemical make up of each oil that gives them distinct aromas as well as their therapeutic actions.  The compounds in essential oils can be used to fight bacteria, fungus, microbes and parasites.  They are also beneficial for reducing inflammation, soothing troubled skin, relieving stress and supporting the body in many ways.  They can also be used to treat many emotional problems.

The use of essential oils extends back to the most ancient of civilizations from the Egyptians to the Greeks and Romans as well as the cultures of ancient India and much of the Middle East.  In theses cultures essential oils were used for spiritual purposes and for physical health and hygiene purposes.  The bible has many references to oils some notable oils mentioned int he bible are frankincense, myrrh, cassia, aloes wood, calamus and galbanum to name a few.  These oils were believed to enhance spiritual connection to god, I suspect due to there ability to still the mind open the psyche to higher inspiration.  The antiseptic qualities of these oils also made them useful for cleansing and purification.

The modern resurgence  aromatherapy has heightened the public awareness of essential oil.  Overall I see this as a good thing, though this term has been co-opted by the marketing department of major soap companies who are erroneously making claims as to the benefits of their products.  Because large soap manufacturers are not using therapeutic grade or even real essential oils in their products. They are using synthetic fragrance oils which have no therapeutic benefits what so ever.  Only true plant derived essential oils offer health benefits.

Essential oils’ influence the body due to their interaction with the nervous system.  When the various oils interact with body we get a wide range of effects.  Lavender produces a calming effect where as Rosemary and Lemon are both mentally stimulating etc.   Combining essential oils and flower essences is a delicate procedure and their complimentary effects offer great benefit when properly understood.  Cayenne flower essence combined with cinnamon essential oil is one example.  Lavender essential oils with white chestnut flower essences would be a nice night cap for the restless mind.

On a final note we should mention how to use essential oils safely.  Dilute strong oils with a base or carrier oil if you have sensitive skin.  For best results apply the oils to the soles of the feet as the circulatory  system will carry the oil throughout the body quite rapidly.  Another good area for application is behind the ears.  Be safe, be smart and eat the oils straight, they have the potential to burn the sensitive mucus membranes.  Also keep the oils out of your eyes and other sensitive areas.  Use common sense.