To date, there are about 300 essential oils that come from the leaves, flowers, wood, bark, and roots of plants. The components of the oils include terpenes, alcohols, esters, aldehydes, and more, which means that a single drop of oil can have numerous effects on a biological system. Due to their molecular structure, essential oils applied to the skin can be absorbed into the blood stream. They also reach the blood as a result of being inhaled. Aromatherapy is an accepted treatment modality in France and England, where aromatherapists work with doctors, and insurance pays their fees.
Clary sage contains a unique alcohol called sclareol.
This molecule closely resembles estrogen. Clary sage oil can be used to moderate hot flashes and other symptoms that accompany a woman's changing needs. In some cases, however, a blend of oils provides a synergestic effect that is stronger than any one oil. The blend was introduced by inhalation, either a few drops on a tissue, or via a diffuser. A new oil just being introduced to the market is Vitex .