Essential oils act through their natural chemical properties that affect the body and mind in different ways. These oils are extracted from plants and contain compounds that influence the nervous system, immune system, and other bodily functions. Here's how essential oils work in the body and the main mechanisms that support their effects:

1. Inhalation: Effects on the Nervous System

When you inhale an essential oil, its volatile molecules enter through the nose and reach the olfactory system. From there, signals are sent to the brain, particularly to a region called the limbic system, which is involved in emotions, memory, and hormonal responses.

• Limbic System Stimulation: The limbic system is connected to different bodily functions, such as regulating heart rate, blood pressure, breathing and hormonal balance. Therefore, when inhaling certain essential oils, you can feel effects such as relaxation, stress reduction, anxiety relief, and improved mood. For example, lavender and bergamot oils are known for their calming properties.

• Improved Mood and Concentration: Some essential oils such as mint and rosemary can stimulate the central nervous system, which improves focus and mental clarity.

2. Topical Application: Absorption Through the Skin

Another common way essential oils work is through topical application. When applied to the skin, its active components are absorbed and enter the bloodstream. This process can help treat localized problems or provide general health benefits.

• Skin Penetration: Essential oils can cross the skin barrier due to their lipophilic nature (affinity for fats). For example, tea tree oil is commonly applied to treat skin infections and eucalyptus oil is used on the chest to relieve respiratory congestion.

• Relief of Pain and Inflammation: Many essential oils, such as mint and eucalyptus, have analgesic and anti-inflammatory effects. These are often applied in therapeutic massages to relieve muscle and joint pain and other types of discomfort.

• Skin Care: Essential oils such as rosehip, lavender and tea tree are used to treat skin problems, such as acne, scars and minor burns. Its antimicrobial, anti-inflammatory and cell regenerating properties help improve skin health.

3. Absorption Through Systemic Circulation

Once the active components of essential oils are absorbed through the skin or respiratory tract, they can enter the bloodstream and be transported to different parts of the body. This is especially relevant for oils with systemic effects, such as those that help:

• Immune System Stimulators: Some essential oils, such as thyme and eucalyptus, have antiviral and antibacterial properties that can help strengthen the immune system and fight infections.

• Calming Effects on the Nervous System: Oils such as lavender or frankincense can help balance the response of the nervous system, reducing the production of hormones of stress such as cortisol and promoting relaxation.

4. Chemical Composition: Active Components

The effects of essential oils are mainly due to their chemical composition. Each oil has a unique blend of compounds, such as terpenes, esters, aldehydes, ketones, alcohols, phenols, and ethers. Some of the most common compounds are:

• Eugenol: Present in clove oil, it has antibacterial and analgesic properties.
• Linalool: Found in oils such as lavender, known for its relaxing and calming effects.
• Menthol: In peppermint oil, it is known for its ability to relieve muscle aches and pains.
• Cineol (eucalyptol): In eucalyptus oil, it has decongestant and expectorant properties.

5. Biochemical Mechanisms

Essential oils can interact with biochemical receptors in the body. For example:

• Interaction with Receptors in the Nervous System: Some essential oils can bind to specific receptors in the brain, such as GABA (gamma-aminobutyric acid) receptors, which play a role in the inhibition of neuronal activity and the reduction of stress and anxiety.
• Modulation of Hormonal Activity: Essential oils such as clary sage can influence the production and balance of hormones, which is useful for symptoms related to the menstrual cycle and menopause.

Examples of Common Effects

1. Relaxation and Sleep: Essential oils such as lavender, chamomile and frankincense help promote relaxation and improve quality of the dream.
2. Energy and Focus: Oils such as mint, lemon and rosemary can energize and increase concentration.
3. Pain Relief: Oils such as mint, wintergreen and ginger are used to relieve muscle, joint and pain. head.
4. Antiseptics and Antibacterials: Oils such as tea tree, oregano and clove have antimicrobial properties that help combat infections and disinfect wounds.

Conclusion

Essential oils act through multiple pathways, from inhalation which directly affects the brain to absorption into the skin and circulatory system. Its effectiveness depends on the chemical composition of the oil, the form of application and the individual sensitivity of the person. With proper and responsible use, essential oils can offer significant physical and emotional health benefits.