What's the difference between essential oils and fragrance oils?
Written by
Tran Quang
Reviewed by
Prof. Benjamin Murphy, Ph.D.When you understand the essential differences between essential oils and perfume oils, you reap the benefits for your health. Essential oils are natural oils derived from plants through steam distillation or cold enfleurage. In addition to fragrance, they all have healing properties. Conversely, perfume oils are synthetic oils manufactured in laboratories. They have no natural healing properties. The natural oils are a genuine aid to aromatherapy.
Therapeutic Value
- Essential oils: Offer documented emotional and physical benefits
- Fragrance oils: Provide scent without therapeutic effects
- Lavender oil reduces stress while synthetic versions don't
Safety Profile
- Essential oils: Require dilution but naturally derived
- Fragrance oils: May contain undisclosed synthetic irritants
- Patch testing crucial for both but especially synthetics
Longevity & Uses
- Essential oils: Shorter shelf life (1-5 years) but versatile applications
- Fragrance oils: Longer-lasting but limited to scent purposes
- Synthetics work better in candles while naturals excel in diffusers
Pay attention to the safety differences. Essential oils require specific dilutions but are derived from natural sources. Fragrance oils often have phthalates, allergens, and irritants. These could cause a skin reaction. I once had a rash from a synthetic lavender oil. Always check the lists of ingredients to see how pure they are.
Consider cost and longevity factors. Essential oils are costly for a reason: it takes lots of plants to create small amounts of essential oils, different plant parts, unusual extraction and production processes. Fragrance oils are cheaper but are less complex than essential oils. Citrus based oils fade out fast and wear off fast. It is the quality not the quantity that I care about.
Choose according to your *intended purpose.* Use essential oils for therapeutic effects, like anxiety relief. Use fragrance oils for a strong, lasting scent in rooms. Check the labels for purity indicators. My diffuser blends always contain pure plant extracts. This produces real aromatherapy results.
Read the full article: Aromatherapy Essential Oils: Benefits & Uses
