Aromatherapy is all about the smell and how different scents can affect the mind, body and even the soul. So the way your essential oils and other substances smell is critical which is why many aromatherapies are now using what they call aromatherapy absolutes which have a highly concentrated scent and can enhance the aromatherapy experience.

Like essential oils, absolutes are extracted from plants but they are much more concentrated than the traditional essential oils which have been used for healing for centuries. They are extracted using a different method making them much more powerful.

Traditional essential oils are extracted from plants using a steam distillation process whereas aromatherapy absolutes are extracted using a chemical process. This chemical process makes them more concentrated and, therefore, more fragrant. But, this method also has it’s drawbacks as using chemicals is anything but natural and traces of the chemicals and solvents remain in the absolute after processing.

Since many people who are using aromatherapy and other natural healing methods don’t want chemicals to be involved, absolutes have been mainly used in perfumes. They can be used in aromatherapy, if you use them with caution. Since they are more potent, they can illicit and allergic reaction more quickly.

Absolutes allow aromatherapists to use some plants whose essential oils are not available by the steam distillation method. Jasmine, for example, must have it’s essential oils extracted with solvents, but once you have it you’ll love the exquisite scent. Jasmine has been used in healing for years and is siad to help relieve headaches as well as regulate the menstrual cycle.

Lavender is a scent we are all familiar with and it is extracted using alcohol. This sweet, floral fragrance is used for relaxation and can be found in dozens of soaps, shampoos and other health care products.

Even roses are in on the chemical extraction process and rose absolute is extracted from the blossoms and yields an intense, feminine scent. It also has anti viral and anti bacterial properties and is used in relaxation therapy as well a lotions and soaps.

There are many aromatherapy absolutes that can be used for different purposes. You will probably find that many of these have been used in your health care and beauty products for years!