How Essential Oils Work

When essential oils are rubbed into the skin, they penetrate through the connective tissue and are absorbed into the lymphatic and circulatory systems. These, in turn, carry the essences to their respective organs. Compared to sythetic ones the essential oils are then eliminated by the lungs and the kidneys. Through direct contact, essential oils support the numerous functions of the skin – the largest organ of the human body. Additionally, they affect the mind as well as the body (following S. Fischer-Rizzi 2004).

The potential of essential oils can be illustrated with a few examples: they can kill germs, eliminate toxins and lower fever, they can energize or relax, they can ease cramps and arouse sexual desire. The great potential of essential oils and their wide range of effects is made especially evident by the number of applications listed in indexes of indications and complaints.