- They are absorbed through the skin and mucous membranes — orally* (by direct absorption) before passing into the blood system. The skin is the conductor of essential oils. This is explained by the fact that the skin is lipophilic and most essential oils are fat-soluble. When they are in the body, each essential oil has an impact on the body.
- They enter the body by inhalation. When the aroma of essential oils is inhaled, it passes through the nasal mucous membranes where the cells of smell are located. The stimuli caused by the aroma are sent to the brain; to the hypothalamus, thalamus and amygdala complex. These stimuli exert a hormonal action which allows the release of neurochemical substances.
The blood system is the main means of transporting essential oils within the body. The body absorbs essential oils via the skin or mucous membranes and once in the blood, the oil molecules are transported to areas where they can act more effectively.
Unlike medications, essential oils do not remain in the body. They are expelled by:
- Urine,
- Stool,
- The sweat,
- Exhalation.
In a healthy body, essential oils do not stay for more than 3 to 6 hours, but a sick body takes around 14 hours to eliminate them.
At the Academy of Massage and Orthotherapy, we believe it is important that every therapist is trained to work with essential oils. This is why this course is included in our training. For more details on our courses, contact us by telephone at 1-877-772-8682 / 819-772-8682 or by email at formation@orthoacademie.com
