Essential things to know about essential oils

Essential oils always conjure up an image of indulgence and luxury. It is typically infused into the air to provide sensual flavour, that helps you relax. Essential oils really have a lot of benefits to you and your health, but make sure you are using real essential oils.

As always, knowledge is key to understanding what is beneficial and what is harmful. 

A common way of making essential oil is through distillation, basically steaming the plant over boiling water. The process "squeezes" the oils out of the plant while the steam vapour absorbs other aromatic compounds within the plant. The result is essential oils and aromatic water (also known as hydrosol).  Oil and water don't mix, so it can be easily separated. 

Other methods of extracting essential oils, include expression, enfleurage, solvents, etc.

There are 2 types of lemongrass essential oils from 2 variants of the lemongrass plant: Cymbopogon citratus or Cymbopogon flexuosus. Soapnut Republic products uses Cymbopogon citratus which has the higher concentration of myrcene which increases anti-bacterial action. The other type is called Cymbopogon flexuosu is more likely to cause skin irritation and hence used in lower grade products or products that do not come into contact with our skin.

We spoke about the benefits of lemongrass essential oil previously, and I shall not elaborate further, simply note it's antimicrobial, anti bacterial and mood lifting benefits to your health. Lemongrass essential oil is used in Soapnut Republic liquid laundry, laundry powder, foaming hand wash. 

It is also known as melaleuca. Tea tree oil is another wonderful essential oil, with antiseptic properties. It is commonly used topically to treat a wide range of skin conditions, acne, cold sores, bacteria infections, eczema, etc. It is also a natural insect repellent. 

Tea tree essential oil is used in almost all Soapnut Republic products as it provides powerful antiseptic properties. It is in the foaming hand wash, liquid laundry, wool cashmere silk shampoo, multi purpose cleaner, stain remover, dish soap, glass cleaner, bathroom & toilet spray, floor cleaner,  toilet cleaner, cream cleanser.

This is essential oils from citrus fruits, i.e. orange, lemon, grapefruit, etc. It contains limonene or D-Limonene, which is an anti-oxidant, and help to neutralize acid in your body and stimulate the immune system to fight infections. It is also widely used in natural cleaning products to provide a fresh scent, this scent can calm and relax and help to relieve anxiety.

Citrus oil is used in Soapnut Republic multi purpose cleaner, glass cleaner, bathroom & toilet spray

It is obtained from the fresh leaves of the eucalyptus tree (scientifically classified as Eucalyptus Globulus). Eucalyptus essential oils has many benefits being antiseptic, antibacterial and antimicrobial and can be applied in many situations, to wounds, to relieve muscle ache, respiratory relief and a stimulant to rejuvenate the tired mind. 

This oil is used in Soapnut Republic Floor Cleaner as it antibacterial and provides a uplifting scent that is safe after you are done cleaning your home.

A commonly used essential oil, mostly for therapeutic purposes to lift moods and help you relax. Lavender also skin benefits such as reducing acne and restoring skin complexion. So, wash your hands and reap the benefits of restoration, as lavender oil is used in Soapnut Republic foaming hand wash.

Mint, or Mentha Piperita, provides a cooling refreshing effect. It provides relieve for sore muscles and also has antimicrobial properties. It's uplifting scent also helps to calm the racing mind. If ingested, it can treat stomach aches and soothe digestive issues. It even helps to freshen your breath.