Essential Oil Information
Essential oils are volatile, organic compounds extracted from plants. Each essential oil contains a range of components with their own aromatic and therapeutic qualities. It takes a lot of plant material to create essential oils; typical yields are 1-2% by weight. For example, it takes around 3 pounds of lavender buds to make 15ml of oil. Steam distillation and cold pressing are the most common methods of extraction for essential oils.
STEAM DISTILLATION
Essential oils are extracted through steam distillation by passing steam through plant material, which releases the oils from the plant’s cells. The steam and oils are then condensed, and the oil is separated from the water. This gentle method preserves the aromatic and therapeutic properties of the essential oils.
COL D PRESSING
In cold pressing, essential oils are extracted by mechanically pressing the peels of citrus fruits like lemons, oranges, or limes. This method releases the oils without heat, preserving their natural aroma and therapeutic properties. It’s commonly used for citrus essential oils.
Plants, and plant essences, have been used for therapeutic and aromatic purposes for thousands of years.
They are the basis of many medicines, and fragrances. Today, essential oils are most typically used for aromatherapy purposes, via inhalation and topical application.
INHALATION
Essential oils are inhaled through diffusers, vaporizers, or directly from the bottle. The aroma travels through the olfactory system to the brain, specifically the limbic system, which is responsible for emotions, memory, and mood.
This can influence mood, reduce stress, and provide mental clarity by stimulating the brain’s emotional center.
TOPICAL APPLICATION
Essential oils are applied to the skin (diluted with a carrier oil) through massage or in skincare products. The oils penetrate the skin and enter the bloodstream.
This can help with issues like muscle tension, pain, or skin conditions, as well as provide localized benefits such as improved circulation or relaxation.
Essential oils should always be diluted when applied topically to the skin, through the use of carrier oils and butters. For specific guidelines, see explanation of dermal use limits below and on each oil’s page.
Unless advised by a licensed practitioner, essential oils should not be taken internally as many oils contain compounds that are harmful when ingested; there is minimal scientific evidence of the beneficial effects of internal consumption of essential oils.
Essential oils are composed of active compounds that can oxidize and degrade. The shelf life of an oil will vary depending on storage and handling conditions but is typically no more than one year.
Single Source Essential Oils
Bergamot (Citrus bergamia)
Country of Origin: Italy
Extraction Method: Cold-pressed
Plant Part: Fresh fruit rind
Aroma: Fresh sweet-fruity, slightly spicy balsamic undertone
Therapeutic Properties: Analgesic, antibacterial, anti-fungal, anti-inflammatory, antiviral, sedative.
Cautions: Phototoxic (moderate risk). Old or oxidized oils should be avoided. Refrigerate for longer shelf life and to reduce the possibility of oxidation.
Dermal Use Limit: For topical use, always dilute with a carrier oil. Do not exceed 0.4% to avoid phototoxicity; 2 drops per fluid ounce of carrier oil.
Blends Well With: Lemon, Orange, Geranium, Black Pepper, Cypress, Sandalwood, Rosemary, Nutmeg, Jasmine, Clary Sage, Frankincense, Helichrysum, Lavender, Vetiver, and Ylang Ylang.
Cedarwood (Juniperus virginiana)
Country of Origin: United States
Extraction Method: Steam-distilled
Plant Part: Wood
Aroma: Mild, sweet, balsamic, ‘pencil wood’ aroma
Therapeutic Properties: Astringent, decongestant, expectorant, mucolytic, sedative.
Cautions: None known.
Dermal Use Limit: For topical use, always dilute with a carrier oil. Do not exceed 5%; 1 drop per mL OR 39 drops per fluid ounce of carrier oil.
Blends Well With: Cypress, Fir Needle, Lavender, Clary Sage, Patchouli, Rosemary, Vetiver, Frankincense, Neroli, Rose, Sandalwood, and Juniperberry.
Eucalyptus (Eucalyptus polybractea, organic)
Country of Origin: Australia
Extraction Method: Steam distilled
Plant Part: Leaves
Aroma: Strong, fresh, camphoraceous odor
Therapeutic Properties: Antimicrobial, analgesic, antibacterial, anti-fungal, anti-inflammatory, antiviral, decongestant, expectorant, mucolytic.
Cautions: Dermatitis patients may wish to avoid topical use. Do not apply to or near the face of infants or children under 10 years of age.
Dermal Use Limit: For topical use, always dilute with a carrier oil. Do not exceed 10% ; 2 drops per mL of carrier oil OR 65 drops per fluid ounce of carrier oil.
Blends Well With: Lemongrass, Clary Sage, Basil, Fir Needle, Geranium, Chamomile, Lemon, Rosemary, Lavender, Cedarwood, and Peppermint.
Lavender (Lavandula angustifolia)
Country of Origin: Bulgaria
Extraction Method: Steam distilled
Plant Part: Flowers
Aroma: Sweet, floral, herbaceous odor with a woody, balsamic undertone
Therapeutic Properties: Antimicrobial, analgesic, antibacterial, anti-inflammatory, decongestant, deodorant, immuno-stimulant, sedative.
Cautions: None known.
Dermal Use Limit: For topical use, always dilute with a carrier oil. While many resources do not specify a dermal use limit, we recommend a maximum of 10% to avoid sensitization risk. 2 drops per mL of carrier oil OR 65 drops per fluid ounce of carrier oil.
Blends Well With: Patchouli, Pine, Clary Sage, Chamomile, Vetiver, Labdanum, Rosemary, Geranium, and Cedarwood.
Lemon (Citrus limon, organic)
Country of Origin: Italy
Extraction Method: Cold pressed
Plant Part: Fresh fruit rind
Aroma: Light, fresh citrus odor
Therapeutic Properties: Analgesic, antibacterial, anti-inflammatory, antiviral, astringent, immunostimulant.
Cautions: Phototoxic (low-risk). Old or oxidized oils should be avoided.
Refrigerate for longer shelf life and to reduce the possibility of oxidation.
Dermal Use Limit: For topical use, always dilute with a carrier oil. Do not exceed 2% to avoid phototoxicity. 11 drops per fluid ounce of carrier oil.
Blends Well With: Bergamot, Orange, Elemi, Ylang Ylang, Juniperberry, Rose, Frankincense, Sandalwood, Benzoin, Geranium, Eucalyptus, Neroli, Lavender, Chamomile, Lime, Grapefruit, and Citronella.
Patchouli (Pogostemon cablin)
Country of Origin: Indonesia
Extraction Method: Steam distilled
Plant Part: Leaves
Aroma: Sweet, rich, herbaceous earthy odor– it improves with age
Therapeutic Properties: Antibacterial, antifungal,anti-inflammatory, sedative.
Cautions: Drug interaction with anticoagulant medication and bleeding disorders; may inhibit blood clotting.
Dermal Use Limit: For topical use, always dilute with a carrier oil. Do not exceed 10% ; 3 drops per mL of carrier oil OR 84 drops per fluid ounce of carrier oil.
Blends Well With: Cedarwood, Myrrh, Lavender, Black Pepper, Frankincense, Vetiver, Orange, Bergamot, Cinnamon, Neroli, Ginger, Chamomile, Rose, Grapefruit, Sandalwood, Jasmine, Geranium, and Lemongrass.
Peppermint (Mentha piperita)
Country of Origin: India
Extraction Method: Steam distilled
Plant Part: Leaves
Aroma: Highly penetrating, grassy-minty camphoraceous odor
Therapeutic Properties: Analgesic, antibacterial, antifungal, anti-inflammatory, antiviral, astringent, decongestant, expectorant, immunostimulant.
Cautions: Do not apply to or near the face of infants or children under the age of 5. Peppermint oil should be avoided by those susceptible to cardiac fibrillation, and by people with a G6PD deficiency.
Dermal Use Limit: For topical use, always dilute with a carrier oil. Do not exceed 5.4%; 40 drops per fluid ounce of carrier oil OR 1 drop per mL of carrier oil.
Blends Well With: Black Pepper, Rosemary, Grapefruit, Lavender, Pine, Eucalyptus, Tea Tree, Lemon, Benzoin, Geranium, and Cypress.
Rosemary (Rosmarinus officinalis, organic)
Country of Origin: Morocco
Extraction Method: Steam distilled
Plant Parts: Leaves & twigs
Aroma: Strong, fresh, minty herbaceous aroma with a woody-balsamic undertone
Therapeutic Properties: Antimicrobial, analgesic, anti-inflammatory, astringent, decongestant, expectorant.
Safety indications: May cause skin irritation if oxidized. Pregnant women should avoid this and other camphor-rich oils. Do not use on children under the age of 5. Use with caution for children between 5-10 years old.
Dermal Use Limit: For topical use, always dilute with a carrier oil. Do not exceed 6.5%; 2 drops per mL of carrier oil OR 42 drops per fluid ounce of carrier oil.
Blends Well With: Clary Sage, Pine, Oregano, Basil, Geranium, Tea Tree, Cinnamon, Eucalyptus, Thyme, Peppermint, Grapefruit, Black Pepper, Bergamot, Frankincense, Lemon, Cedarwood, and Lavender.
Sweet Orange (Citrus sinensis)
Country of Origin: Brazil
Extraction Method: Cold pressed
Plant Part: Fresh fruit rind
Aroma: Sweet, rich fresh fruity odor
Therapeutic Properties: Analgesic, antibacterial, anti-inflammatory, antiviral, immunostimulant.
Cautions: Old or oxidized oils should be avoided. Refrigerate for longer shelf life and to reduce the possibility of oxidation.
Dermal Use Limit: For topical use, always dilute with a carrier oil. Do not exceed 8%; 2 drops per mL of carrier oil OR 50 drops per fluid ounce of carrier oil.
Blends Well With: Sandalwood, Nutmeg, Eucalyptus, Juniperberry, Lemon, Bergamot, Clary Sage, Basil, Rose, Myrrh, Ginger, Grapefruit, Neroli, Ylang Ylang, Lavender, Geranium, Frankincense, Black Pepper, Jasmine, Vetiver, and Cinnamon.
Tea Tree (Melaleuca alternifolia)
Country of Origin: China
Extraction Method: Steam distilled
Plant Part: Leaves
Aroma: Warm, fresh, spicy-camphoraceous odor
Therapeutic Properties: Antibacterial, antifungal, antiviral, anti-inflammatory, decongestant, expectorant, immunostimulant.
Cautions: Old or oxidized oils should be avoided. Refrigerate for longer shelf life and to reduce the possibility of oxidation.
Dermal Use Limit: For topical use, always dilute with a carrier oil. Do not exceed 10%; 2 drops per mL of carrier oil OR 61 drops per fluid ounce of carrier oil.
Blends Well With: Peppermint, Cypress, Juniper, Lemon, Basil, Thyme, Pine, Oregano, Ylang Ylang, Lavender, Black Pepper, Clary Sage, Geranium, Nutmeg, Rosemary, Bergamot, Clove Bud, Eucalyptus, and Chamomile.
Essential Oil Blends
Bandit's Oil Essential Oil Blend
Cinnamon, Clove, Eucalyptus, Rosemary & Lemon Essential Oils
- Cinnamon Leaf (Cinnamomum zeylanicum)
Sri Lanka | Steam Distillation | Leaves
Sweet, warm-spicy, dry, tenacious odor - Clove Leaf (Eugenia caryophyllata)
Indonesia | Steam Distillation | Leaves
Harsh, burnt-woody odor with spicy undertones - Eucalyptus (Eucalyptus Globulus)
China | Steam Distilled | Leaves
Somewhat harsh camphoraceous odor and woody-sweet undertone - Rosemary (Rosmarinus officinalis)
Morocco | Steam distilled | Leaves & Twigs
Strong, fresh, minty herbaceous aroma with a woody-balsamic undertone - Lemon (Citrus limon, organic)
Italy | Cold pressed | Fresh fruit rind
Light, fresh citrus odor
Dermal Use Limit: For topical use, always dilute with a carrier oil. Do not exceed 1.25% or 12 drops per fluid ounce of carrier oil.
Citrus Blossom Essential Oil Blend
Lemon, Bergamot and Sweet Orange Essential Oils
- Lemon (Citrus limon, organic)
Italy | Cold pressed | Fresh fruit rind
Light, fresh citrus odor - Bergamot (Citrus bergamia)
Italy | Cold-pressed | Fresh fruit rind
Fresh sweet-fruity, slightly spicy balsamic undertone - Sweet Orange (Citrus sinensis)
Brazil | Cold pressed | Fresh fruit rind
Sweet, rich fresh fruity odor
Dermal Use Limit: For topical use, always dilute with a carrier oil. Do not exceed 1% or 10 drops per fluid ounce of carrier oil.
Peppermint & Tea Tree Essential Oil Blend
Peppermint, Tea Tree, and Rosemary Essential Oils
- Peppermint (Mentha piperita)
India | Steam distilled | Leaves
Highly penetrating, grassy-minty camphoraceous odor - Tea Tree (Melaleuca alternifolia)
China | Steam distilled | Leaves
Warm, fresh, spicy-camphoraceous odor - Rosemary (Rosmarinus officinalis)
Morocco | Steam distilled | Leaves & Twigs
Strong, fresh, minty herbaceous aroma with a woody-balsamic undertone
Dermal Use Limit: For topical use, always dilute with a carrier oil. Do not exceed 4% or 40 drops per fluid ounce of carrier oil.
Emotional Uplift Essential Oil Blend
Sweet Orange, Bergamot, Egyptian Geranium & Lavender Essential Oils
- Sweet Orange (Citrus sinensis)
Brazil | Cold pressed | Fresh fruit rind
Sweet, rich fresh fruity odor - Bergamot (Citrus bergamia)
Italy | Cold-pressed | Fresh fruit rind
Fresh sweet-fruity, slightly spicy balsamic undertone - Geranium (Pelargonium graveolens)
Egypt | Steam Distillation | Leaves
Green, rosy-sweet, minty aroma - Lavender (Lavandula angustifolia)
Bulgaria | Steam distilled | Flowers
Sweet, floral, herbaceous odor with a woody, balsamic undertone
Dermal Use Limit: For topical use, always dilute with a carrier oil. Do not exceed 1% or 10 drops per fluid ounce of carrier oil.
Mental Clarity Essential Oil Blend
Cardamom, Rosemary, Pink Grapefruit and Lemon Essential Oils
- Cardamom (Elettaria cardamomum)
Germany, Sri Lanka | Steam Distillation | Seeds
Sweet-spicy, warming aroma with a woody balsamic undertone - Rosemary (Rosmarinus officinalis)
Morocco | Steam distilled | Leaves & Twigs
Strong, fresh, minty herbaceous aroma with a woody-balsamic undertone - Pink Grapefruit (Citrus paradisi)
USA | Cold pressed | Fresh fruit rind
Fresh, sweet citrus aroma - Lemon (Citrus limon, organic)
Italy | Cold pressed | Fresh fruit rind
Light, fresh citrus odor
Dermal Use Limit: For topical use, always dilute with a carrier oil. Do not exceed 1.5% or 15 drops per fluid ounce of carrier oil.
Wind Down Essential Oil Blend
Patchouli, Ylang Ylang, Clary Sage and Lavender Essential Oils
- Patchouli (Pogostemon cablin)
Indonesia | Steam distilled | Leaves
Sweet, rich, herbaceous earthy odor– it improves with age - Ylang Ylang (Cananga odorata)
Madagascar | Fractional Distillation | Flower
Intensely sweet, soft, floral-balsamic, slightly spicy odor - Clary Sage (Salvia sclarea)
Egypt, France | Steam Distillation | Leaves
Sweet, nutty herbaceous scent - Lavender (Lavandula angustifolia)
Bulgaria | Steam distilled | Flowers
Sweet, floral, herbaceous odor with a woody, balsamic undertone
Dermal Use Limit: For topical use, always dilute with a carrier oil. Do not exceed 5% or 50 drops per fluid ounce of carrier oil.
Terms
Common Name (Scientific Name): The specific genus and species for the plant from which our oils are extracted.
Country of Origin: Where the plant was grown.
Extraction Method: How this oil was produced.
Plant part(s): The part of the plant that was used in the extraction process.
Aroma: Odor description
Therapeutic properties: The beneficial attributes of each oil.
Unfortunately, there has been a limited amount of scientific research to study the properties of available essential oils. Those listed here are most commonly understood through traditional use in aromatherapy, and we have utilized available study data when possible.
NOTE: These statements are not intended to treat any medical conditions, and no claims of specific medical or therapeutic benefit are being made for any essential oils.
Cautions: Potential hazards, and specific medical conditions or life stages when oil use should be limited or avoided, as well as any recommended handling procedures.
THERAPEUTIC PROPERTIES DEFINITIONS
Antibacterial: acting against bacteria
Antifungal: destroying fungi or inhibiting their growth
Antimicrobial: destroying or inhibiting the growth of microorganisms
Anti-inflammatory: reducing or counteracting inflammation
Antiviral: acting against viruses
Analgesic: reducing the sensation of pain
Astringent: tightening or contracting of skin
Decongestant: relieving congestion
Deodorant: destroying or masking unpleasant odors
Expectorant: aids in clearance of mucus from the respiratory tract
Immuno-stimulant: stimulating an immune response
Mucolytic: helps to break down mucus
Sedative: promoting calm or inducing sleep
Dermal Use Limit: This is the maximum recommended percentage for topical use.
We have also included the equivalent number of drops per appropriate volume of carrier oil in either fluid ounces or milliliters (according to each oil and our bottles’ dropper mechanism*). Our dermal use limits are based on a maximum single day product application of 30 mL (which is equivalent to 1 ounce).
While our recommended maximum concentration limits are based on the best science available, anyone can be sensitive or allergic to any substance, including essential oils. If you notice any irritation or other adverse reaction to topically applied essential oil and carrier oil blends, please discontinue use immediately. Patients who are using other topically applied medication should use separate areas of skin for essential oils and other medications.
*The standard aromatherapy assumption is that 20-25 drops equal one mL of essential oil. However, to account for differences in droppers and oil densities, we tested our bottles to determine the number of drops in one mL for each of our essential oils. The average value for each oil was then used with the recommended dermal use limit to calculate the number of drops per mL of carrier oil.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the difference between Essential Oils, All-Natural Fragrances, and Fragrance Oils or Perfumes?
Essential Oils are oils that are derived from botanicals or plants via steam distillation or cold press process.
All-Natural Fragrances are fragrances that are comprised of essential oils and natural ingredients. GASC uses essential oils and all-natural fragrances.
Fragrance Oils (a.k.a. Perfumes) are oils that can include essential oils, natural fragrances, and artificial aroma chemicals. Many other companies use artificial fragrances because they are cheap, but the real ingredients are hidden, so the consumer doesn’t really know what they are.
Are your essential oils "therapeutic grade"?
"Therapeutic grade" is simply a marketing term, as there is no third-party certifying agency overseeing the quality of essential oils. Essential Oils can be considered "Certified Organic" by an independent, third party verification organization. Organic oils have been extracted from plants grown organically, without use of pesticides, and under approved methods of cultivation, harvest, and extraction. That said, we source our Essential Oils (many of them certified organic!) from Lebermuth, a supplier that has been in the Essential Oil business for over a century, building a long-standing reputation of quality products.
What is a carrier oil?
A carrier oil (or massage oil / body oil) is used to dilute essential oils before they are applied to the skin in massage and aromatherapy. They are so named because they "carry" the essential oil onto the skin. Diluting essential oils is a critical safety practice when using essential oils, as essential oils are powerful, concentrated volatile oils. Carrier oils alone do not contain a concentrated aroma, unlike essential oils, though some, such as olive, have a mild distinctive smell. Our Carrier Oil Blend is a wonderful way to apply your favorite essential oils to your skin, but works well as a fragrance-free massage oil as well.
Which essential oils should I avoid during pregnancy?
The following Essential Oils should be avoided throughout pregnancy and lactation:
Anise, Anise (Star), Araucaria, Artemisia vestita, Birch (Sweet), Black seed, Buchu, Calamint (lesser), Carrot Seed, Cassia, Chaste tree, Cinnamon bark [ please note that we use Cinnamon LEAF, not bark ], Costus, Cypress (Blue), Dill seed (Indian), Fennel (bitter), Fennel (sweet), Feverfew, Genipi, Hibawood, Ho leaf, Hyssop, Lanyana, Lavender (Spanish) [ please note that we use Bulgarian Lavender or 40/42 Lavender sourced from USA ] Mugwort, Myrrh, Myrtle, Oregano, Parsely Leaf, Parsleyseed, Pennyroyal, Rue, Sage (Dalmation), Sage (Spanish), Savin, Tansy, Thuja, Western red cedar, Wintergreen, Wormwood, Yarrow, Zedoary
Are there essential oils that should be restricted during pregnancy?
The following Essential Oils should be restricted throughout pregnancy and lactation (We include the maximum dermal dose recommendation after each essential oil):
Basil (lemon) 1.4%, Boswellia papyrifera 1.7%, Champaca (orange) absolute 17.5%, Lemon balm (Australian) 3.4%, Lemon leaf 1.2%, Lemongrass 0.7%, Litsea cubeba 0.8%, Melissa 0.9%, Myrtle (honey) 0.9%, Myrtle (lemon) 0.7%, Nasturium absolute 0.26%, Tea Tree (lemon-scented) 0.8%, Thyme (lemon) 3.7%, Verbena (lemon) 0.9%
What is Phototoxicity?
Phototoxicity refers to a skin reaction that occurs when certain essential oils, particularly citrus oils, are applied to the skin and then exposed to sunlight or UV light. The reaction can result in redness, burns, or discoloration of the skin. This happens because compounds in some essential oils, like furanocoumarins, increase the skin’s sensitivity to UV radiation.
Common phototoxic oils include bergamot, lime, lemon, and grapefruit. To avoid phototoxicity, it's advised to dilute these oils properly or avoid sun exposure for 12-24 hours after application.