An aromatherapy glossary of terms is necessary because there are many terms used in the world of essential oils and it can become quite confusing. Follow this glossary and visit frequently asked questions for more information on the topic of aromatherapy.
Absolute - Highly concentrated prepared perfumes obtained by a method of extraction of a concrete. Absolutes can also be obtained through distillation
Adulteration - Pure essential oils are changed, cut, diluted or mixed with synthetic fragrance
Aesthetician - A licensed skin care professional using treatments for beauty and health
Alcohol - Used in the cosmetics industry as an antiseptic, but can be used as a carrier with essential oils
Allantoin - An organic compound that occurs naturally in comfrey plants used in healing burns and cuts
Amphoteric - A substance that acts as an acid or base.
Antioxidant - Substances such as Vitamin E and is in some oils such as grapefruit seed extract
Argil - Used in skin products to absorb impurities
Aromachology - Coined by Annette Green, of the Fragrance Foundation
Aromaology - A term by the Aveda Corporation for the study of Aromatherapy
Aromatherapy - The use of essential oils form plants and other natural materials to enhance health and beauty
Balsam - A natural raw material from trees or plants. They are preservatives and treat skin conditions
Bentonite - Used in clay packs and masks for facials. Volcanic ash
Castor Oil - Extracted from the castor bean for an oil. It is used in cosmetic products
Cocoa Butter - Solid fatty material from the chocolate plant
Collagen - A protein found in connective tissues of animals. Used in plastic surgery to smooth wrinkles
Concrete - A French word referring to a particular perfume from basic material Concretes are produced by extracting plant tissue with solvents
Decoctions - A liquid extract of harder parts of plants such as seeds, roots and bark
Demineralized Water - Water that has all minerals removed. Popular in the costly cosmetics industry
Distillation - A process of driving off water vapor from liquids or solids by heating. Many essential oils come from distillation
Emollient - A material that soothes the body and prevents water loss
Essential Oil - A volatile material that contains material from a plant's cells
Fixative - A material that "fixes" the scent and slows evaporation of the essential oils
Gum - The sticky material secreted by some trees
Humectant - When added to creams and lotions helps the skin retain moisture
Hydrate - Used in cosmetics to make the skin appear younger retaining more moisture
Infusion - Herbs are steeped in boiled water for a period of time. Essential oils can be added to this herbal water mixture
Kaolin - A type of clay that aids absorption of the skin
Mineral Oil - An oil from petroleum. Not recommended for skin or body care.
Pomade - Prepared perfume materials by enfleurage
Resin - A hard brittle substance. Harder material that may come from trees
Talc - A substance that occurs naturally and used in baby powders and creams. It is an irritant to the respiratory system and cornstarch or baking soda is a better choice.
Tincture - An alcoholic solution containing medicinal oils, herbs and alcohol.
Unguent - A preparation from oil for cosmetic purposes. It liquefies when applied to the body.
Volatile Oil - An essential oil that vaporizes into the air quickly. It contains plant material.
See Also: Aromatherapy Benefits ● History of Aromatherapy ●
Favorite Aromatherapy Blends ● Oils - Aromatherapy ● Aroma Therapy
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