Another method is Maceration. This is crushing the rind of citrus fruit to obtain the oil. Plant oils may be broken down into chemicals such as phenols, ketones and alcohols which may have therapeutic properties. The scents released by the essential oils acts on the hypothalamus which is a part of the brain that influences the hormonal system. In theory, essential oils are thought to be absorbed into the body either through the pores of the skin during massage or inhalation.
Oils are usually dilutes in a carrier oil.
These may include sunflower oil, apricot kernal oil or sweet almond oil. Normal dilution may be 10 drops essential oil to 20 ml carrier oil. A visit to an Aromatherapy pratitioner may last from 30 to 60 minutes. Usually on your first visit they may ask you some questions about your lifestyle, health and what you want the treatment for. A Aromatherapy practitioner should only use high quality oils.