What is an essential oil? The answer is simple. It is the essence of a plant, gathered from roots, seeds, shoots, or flowers. When the oils from particular plants are harvested, they can be used for a wide variety of purposes. Some of these include easing stress, improving mood, relieving head tension, promoting restful sleep, quelling stomach distress, and repelling outside annoyances. Many essential oils also have immune supporting properties. According to the National Institutes of Health (NIH), “The oldest written evidence of medicinal plants’ usage for preparation of drugs has been found on a Sumerian clay slab from Nagpur, approximately 5000 years old.”

Because these natural substances have such a wide variety of uses, people throughout history have ascribed incredible powers to them. Shakespeare mentions herbs and flowers often in his works. This is not surprising considering that herbs, flowers, and products made with them were the medicines of his day. The English of Queen Elizabeth’s day were famous for their herb gardens, and believed that medicines and other products derived from plants had medicinal, household, and even magical properties. Our essential oils classes focus on how to use a variety of essential oils to improve your health, add beauty to your home, and help you to replace harsh chemicals with gentler, greener, more natural cleaning products. 

Although they may seem simple, these substances require some education and training to be used safely and effectively. Some oils can cause skin irritation if not combined with a carrier oil before use. A few may interact with medications you are taking. Essential oil classes from the Whole Life Center of Kansas City can provide you with the training and resources you need to incorporate the fragrance, healing and beauty of essential oils in your home and life.