History of Organic Essential Oils

Introduction

Essential oils have been used for thousands of years in medicine, religious ceremonies, and beauty treatments. But when did the concept of organic essential oils emerge? Let’s explore the rich history of these natural extracts and how they evolved into the organic movement we know today.

Ancient Civilizations & Essential Oils

1. Egyptian Use of Essential Oils (3,000 BCE - 500 BCE)

• Ancient Egyptians used essential oils like frankincense, myrrh, and cedarwood for embalming, skincare, and medicine.
• Oils were extracted through cold pressing and rudimentary distillation.

2. Greek & Roman Influence (500 BCE - 300 CE)

• Hippocrates, the “Father of Medicine,” promoted the use of plant oils for healing.
• Romans used essential oils in baths and perfumes.

3. Traditional Chinese & Ayurvedic Medicine (200 BCE - Present)

• In China and India, essential oils were used in holistic healing, massage, and meditation.
• Ayurvedic texts mention sandalwood, turmeric, and jasmine oils for health.

The Birth of Organic Essential Oils

1. 19th Century: Industrialization & Synthetic Chemicals

• The rise of chemical pesticides and fertilizers changed agriculture.
• Essential oil production began to include solvent extraction and artificial additives.

2. 20th Century: The Organic Movement

• In the 1940s-1950s, concerns over chemical farming led to organic agriculture movements.
• The 1990s-2000s saw an increased demand for pure, chemical-free essential oils, leading to certifications like USDA Organic & ECOCERT.

Conclusion

Essential oils have a deep history in healing and beauty. The rise of organic essential oils ensures that we return to nature’s purest form, free from synthetic chemicals.