Last week, we chatted about essential oils and how I use them. This week, let’s break down the most common questions I am often asked about those gems from nature (as I like to call them).  

Essential oils have the ability to transform your well-being and mood. But there’s still a few questions to answer when talking about our natural, sweet smelling bottles of plant magic.

1. Where exactly do these oils come from? 

Essential oils, simply, come from plants found in nature. The oil from the plants is extracted and distributed in little bottles that you see everywhere. Every oil comes from a different plant. 

2. What if it smells bad? Does that mean it’s a bad oil? 

Not at all. Things smell good and bad for certain reasons. Though not many essential oils ever smell *bad*, if it does smell not-so-good, it’s due to one of two reasons. 1) Lack of use- often things smell bad to us because we’re not used to it, not because it’s unhealthy for you. It’s just foreign. 

2) Not all plants can smell like roses!  If an oil smells bad, that’s what the plant is supposed to smell like. 

3. Do they ever expire? 

For me, they have never expired. It’s all about storage. If they are stored in a cool place with a lid, then the properties of the oils will be maintained. That's why they are kept in dark bottles, to avoid sunlight exposure. I’ve had some oils for ten years and others for a few months - three years, depending on how often I use them.

That said, always check the label for expiry as different manufacturers have different standards. 

4. Why do people apply oil to their feet? 

It’s a pretty popular phenomenon to place a few droplets on oil at the bottom of your feet. There are several reasons for this, one being, general foot care, but there’s another interesting reflexology-related reason. Our feet and the palms of our hands are linked to every other organ in our bodies. This kind of application can target and facilitate areas that you otherwise wouldn’t be able to heal naturally. 

5. Why are they called essential oils?

This is a biggie and I’ll be honest, I don’t know this for sure. But I know the right answer to me - plants are essential to our lives, hence the name. 

6. Will these oils stain? 

In my own experience, no. Oils are typically clear colored and absorb well. None of my oils have ever left any marks. However, there are certain oils such as valerian and vetiver to watch out for. 

7. What if I don’t own a diffuser?

No worries, though diffusers are brilliant for aroma, they are not essential (excuse the pun). There are many other ways to experience oil such as Inhaling, rubbing or putting it in your drink!

8. What is the difference between candles and essential oils?

Last of all, one is created by man, the other one created by nature. Both are excellent ways to set the mood of a room, but essential oils are multidisciplinary, which is why they take first place for me. 

As always, comment below to let me know any more questions you have for me or send me a message on https://www.facebook.com/jackiefernandesessentials/. I’m always happy to answer your questions!

Jackie X