If you use home cosmetics, aromatherapy or alternative medicine in general, celebrate International Essential Oils Day on July 11. This holiday was created to draw attention to the health benefits of essential oils and the contribution of the essential oil industry to society’s sustainable development efforts.
History of essential oils
Essential oils are concentrated volatile liquids extracted from various parts of plants. They are called so because these oils contain the essence of the plant’s aroma. Essential oils can be extracted from plants by distillation, expression, solvent extraction and other methods. Most essential oils are steam distilled, but there are some exceptions. For example, citrus oils are usually obtained by cold pressing from the fruit peel.
Since ancient times, people have used essential oils for medicinal purposes, for flavoring, in various aromatic preparations and in religious ceremonies (especially frankincense and myrrh). There is a form of alternative medicine called aromatherapy. It is based on the use of essential oils and other aromatic materials to treat various diseases and relaxation.
Essential oils are widely used in the production of perfumes, soaps, cosmetics, air fresheners and household detergents. They are also an ingredient in cosmetics not only because of their aroma, but also because essential oils have antiseptic, antibacterial and antifungal properties. However, it is important to keep in mind that undiluted essential oils can cause skin irritation. Therefore, you should be very careful when using them in skin care.
International Essential Oils Day
Given the global popularity of essential oils, it is not surprising that they are dedicated to a holiday. International Essential Oils Day (IEOD) was launched in 2018 by Young Living, a company that sells essential oils and related products. The date of the celebration was chosen in honor of the company’s founder, Donald Gary Young. He was born on July 11, 1949 and died two months before the creation of IEOD.
Young Living founded International Essential Oils Day to promote its products, as well as its charitable foundation, which contributes to environmental protection and measures for the harmonious development of society. However, since its launch, the holiday has been adopted by other manufacturers and distributors of essential oils, who use it to promote their own products. It is also celebrated by consumers of essential oils around the world, many of whom have no idea about the origin of the holiday.
There are many ways to celebrate International Essential Oils Day. You can accumulate your collection of essential oils, try new essential oils, experiment with creating your own basic blends and skin and hair care products. You can also tell the world about your favorite essential oils on social media to promote the holiday and encourage your friends to discover the amazing world of essential oils.