
The Problem with Essential Oils & Our Better Alternative
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Essential oils are highly concentrated, requiring large amounts of plant material to produce even a few drops. It takes about three pounds of lavender buds just to make one drop of essential oil! Essential oils are composed of volatile compounds and represent only a small, concentrated part of the plant. Applying such a high concentration of these compounds directly to your skin is unnatural. Essential oils can disrupt the microbiome of the skin and cause skin irritation and imbalance. The skin absorbs these potent plant compounds when applied, affecting the whole body.
Many essential oils are endocrine disruptors, interfering with the normal functioning of the endocrine system by mimicking or blocking hormones. Studies show that lavender may have estrogenic effects, causing hormonal imbalances and affecting testosterone levels. Another study linked these oils to early breast development in children, with symptoms resolving once exposure stopped. Essential oils should not be used daily, especially for fragrance purposes.
Our Solution: Herbal Infusions
Herbal infusions use the whole plant, which means you get a full range of beneficial compounds —not just the volatile ones found in essential oils.
Herbal infusions extract vitamins, minerals, antioxidants, and other compounds like flavonoids and tannins, which are also great for nourishing and healing the skin. By using the whole plant, herbal infusions are gentler, more balanced, and less likely to irritate your skin. They work holistically, supporting long-term skin health without the risks that come with the high concentration of essential oils. Using herbal infusions allows us to ensure the quality and purity of the organic herbs we select and use.
Using herbal infusions is better for the earth because they require significantly less plant material compared to essential oils. Producing essential oils involves distilling large quantities of plants - sometimes hundreds of pounds-for just a small amount of oil. Herbal infusions, on the other hand, use the whole plant more efficiently, minimizing waste and reducing the environmental impact of harvesting and processing. This approach is more sustainable and respectful of natural resources. At Rowe Naturals, we strive for the healthiest skincare & goods for our bodies and for the Earth.
1 comment
Thank you very much for this information, very good to know!