Most commercial perfumes today are made wholly or partially of synthetically derived aromatic compounds. No matter how similar the synthetic fragrance may seem to its natural counterpart, a laboratory cannot replicate the rich array of chemical components that compose an essential oil. It is this complex make up that determines the therapeutic qualities of each essential oil, and provides a holistic experience far beyond its fragrance. It is widely believed that the essential oil, after extraction, retains the life force of the plant. It is this unique, vibrant and dynamic essence of the plant that imparts its healing power and cannot be duplicated in a laboratory.
Essential oils are precious.
Substantial quantities of plant material are required to produce a proportionately small amount of oil. The amount of plant material needed varies with each oil and is the dominate reason for the wide range of prices found in the essential oil market. 100 pounds of mint yield 3.5 pounds of oil and 30-50 pounds of eucalyptus produce one pound of oil. In fact, one plant may produce different essential oils from its separate parts. For instance citrus auranthium, a particular orange tree, produces a neroli oil from its flowers, a petitgrain oil from its leaves and the bitter orange oil from the peel of the fruit.