A History of Pure Essential Oils
Though in recent years they have become more widely used, plant oils have been an important part of holistic healing and alternative medicine since the dawn of these practices. First evidence of plant oil ointment use dates back to ancient Mesopotamia times; 3500 BC, when aromatic plants and herbs were commonly used for their healing properties across West and East Asia, as well as in Northern Africa. Aromatic plants and plant oils were and still are used across the world for beauty enhancement, spiritual and religious practice, and as incense and perfumes. Once distillation became a common practice during the 11th to 13th centuries, it became possible to infuse plant properties into oils, and the use of aromatic essential oils as natural medicine spread across the globe.
As trade routes between Europe and Asia strengthened, more of European culture became interested in herbs and fragrances from East and West Asia. European research into essential oils began to grow. In the early 1910’s French chemist Rene-Maurice Gattefosse discovered the healing properties of lavender oil after using it to treat his severe burn wounds. It is common in modern day for European doctors to suggest the use of certain essential oils with antiseptic and healing properties in treating specific health conditions, such as arthritis.
In modern times, essential oils are used commonly to treat stress related mood disorders. Essential oils are a concentrated hydrophobic liquid that carries chemical compounds from a plant after distillation. Though they are still considered an alternative medication, there have been many medical studies done to research the effectiveness of essential oils. There are 90 commonly used essential oils, each with a different effect on the body's natural processes. At Base Essentials we have sourced the highest quality essential oils from around the world learning from centuries of growing and distilling pure essential oils. For more information on how to use your essential oils, have a look at our how-to guide.
