How do Essential Oils Work?

The nasal cavity contains olfactory nerves, which are sensitive to airborne molecules that get stuck to the mucous membrane within the nose. These olfactory nerves lead directly to a primitive part of the brain known as the "limbic system".

The limbic system is the part of the brain that stores and recalls our sensory experiences, including memories and emotions. It is located within the hypothalamus.

The hypothalamus controls the release of four of the brain's most powerful hormones: Serotonin, dopamine, acetylcholine and norepinephrine. It's main function is to maintain the body's homeostasis (equilibrium) by controlling and regulating bodily functions such as heart rate, blood pressure, appetite, energy levels, metabolism, mood/behavioral functions and sleep cycles.

In aromatherapy, it is believed that when certain scent molecules are encountered, the limbic system processes and determines the actions, if any, the hypothalamus will take. Depending upon the scent, the hypothalamus then, for example, might instruct the pituitary gland to release 'feel-good' hormones (endorphins) and trigger a change to the heart rate and stress levels.

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