“Aromatherapy is the use of therapeutic oils extracted from natural plant matter in order to encourage good health, equilibrium, and well-being,” according to Clare Walters’ Aromatherapy: An Illustrated Guide. Because of their holistic qualities, these essential oils promote general vitality by balancing the mind, body, and spirit.

Why is it important to have products with pure essential oils? When seeking out products that claim to relax, energize, relieve stress, or any of a host of  other claims, it’s necessary to realize that there are no limits on what can be termed Aromatherapy. With no government regulations, how does one know if a product can truly be used for therapeutic purposes?

Truly holistic Aromatherapy is derived from using products utilizing pure essential oils with no artificial fragrances or chemicals. It’s important to gain a basic working knowledge of the essential oils you are interested in.  When in doubt, do some research. Here are a few things to keep in mind when shopping for oils.

Numerous products make claims of stress relief, energy, or relaxation. However, those claims are frequently just deceptive marketing if the essential oils aren’t pure. Unadulterated essential oils devoid of chemicals, fillers, or artificial fragrances are the foundation of true aromatherapy.

It’s beneficial to do some research before making a purchase. Here are some basic guidelines to make sure you’re selecting goods that live up to their claims.

Certain plants are the source of essential oils, and their Latin (botanical) name makes it clear what you’re getting. Without it, even if the label uses a well-known common name, you could purchase an oil with entirely different qualities than intended.

Consider lavender. Larissa Jones explains in Aromatherapy for Body, Mind, and Spirit that the two common varieties of lavender, Lavandula hybrida (lavandin) and Lavandula angustifolia (true lavender), have quite different effects. Real lavender is relaxing and perfect for relieving stress or falling asleep. Contrarily, lavender contains the stimulating compound camphor, which is excellent for colds but not for kids or bedtime.

Select Lavandula angustifolia that has been labeled with AOC (Appellation d’Origine Contrôlée), a French certification that is exclusive to lavender grown from seed in Haute Provence and guarantees purity and potency, if you’re looking for premium lavender for relaxation.

Hidden ingredients may be present in even “pure essential oil” bottles. Adulteration is widespread, particularly in less expensive products, and frequently involves the addition of preservatives or carrier oils.

For example, a lavender oil labeled Lavandula angustifolia may still contain vitamin E and hybrid safflower seed oil. These additional ingredients alter the therapeutic effect and weaken the potency, though they are not always dangerous.

Examine the ingredient list at all times. Make sure you’re getting essential oil exactly as you paid for it.

As you learn more, you might encounter the term “chemotype,” which describes a plant’s chemical composition that differs depending on its cultivation location and method. For instance, thyme cultivated in sunny lowlands yields a distinct chemotype from thyme cultivated in mountainous, cooler climates.

The therapeutic effects of various chemotypes vary. When using oils for specific health benefits, it becomes even more crucial to comprehend them.

Professional essential oil producers frequently evaluate the composition and purity of essential oils using Gas Chromatography (GC) testing, which is similar to a chemical fingerprint. It’s helpful to know that respectable brands use GC testing to verify the quality of their oils, even though the average user doesn’t access this.

The onus of choosing high-quality products shifts to the consumer as aromatherapy gains popularity. The good news is that you can make wise decisions without being an expert. You can choose products that promote your health and well-being with confidence if you have a basic understanding of essential oils, their Latin names, and how to read labels.

A small amount of awareness makes a big difference. Purity is crucial to authentic aromatherapy; it’s not just a matter of taste.

Kathleen Flanagan, CEO and Founder of Awakening Spirit, Aromatherapist, Sound Therapist, Esthetician and #1 Amazon Best Selling Author.