In Lesson 1, you’ll learn the foundational principles of aromatherapy. We'll explore what aromatherapy is, how essential oils work, and how they're used in practical, approachable ways. You’ll also discover the difference between single oils, blends, and carrier oils. Whether you are brand new to aromatherapy or looking to deepen your understanding, this lesson will help you confidently begin your journey with essential oils and create intentional routines that nurture your body, mind, and spirit.
Basics of Aromatherapy
What Is Aromatherapy?
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Aromatherapy is the practice of using essential oils, which are highly concentrated plant extracts, to support overall well-being in body, mind, and spirit. These natural aromas can be inhaled, applied to the skin with proper dilution, or included in personal care and home routines to help create moments of balance, comfort, and joy.
The goal of aromatherapy is to find scents that evoke positive feelings and then weave those aromas into your daily life with intention. Whether it’s creating a calming bedtime ritual, energizing your morning routine, or simply refreshing your space, essential oils can become a meaningful part of your self-care.
What Is An Essential Oil?
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Essential oils are highly concentrated aromatic substances found in various parts of plants—like flowers, leaves, roots, rinds, and wood. Composed of volatile compounds, they give plants their distinct scents and help attract pollinators, deter pests, and fight disease.
At Aura Cacia, we source essential oils from trusted growers and suppliers around the world. Most essential oils are obtained through steam distillation, though some are cold-pressed or solvent-extracted, depending on the plant type. We prioritize sourcing plants from their native or indigenous regions, where they grow in ideal conditions. This helps ensure the oils contain the full spectrum of beneficial plant chemicals needed for high-quality aromatherapy use.
What Is An Essential Oil Blend?
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An essential oil blend is a thoughtfully crafted combination of two or more essential oils designed to support a specific benefit, mood, or purpose. Blends allow for a synergistic effect, where the oils work together to create an experience that is greater than the sum of their parts.
Rather than reaching for individual oils, blends make it easy to enjoy ready-to-use aromas that support daily wellness. Blends offer a simple, effective way to explore aromatherapy, whether you're looking to relax, energize, cleanse, or create a comforting atmosphere.
What Is A Carrier (Skincare) Oil?
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Skin care oils, also known as carrier oils, are plant-based oils that are used to nourish and protect the skin via their fatty acid and lipid fat profile. Unlike essential oils, they’re not aromatic or highly concentrated, but they provide their own benefits — working well as moisturizers or as a base for essential oil blends.
Carrier oils help dilute essential oils to make them safe for topical use. They help carry the essential oil into the skin, at a safely diluted and slower rate of absorption. This helps the essential oils last longer and be more effective, acting as a time release. Each has its own texture, absorption rate, and skin benefits, making it easy to choose one that suits your skin type or self-care needs.
