Essential oils: Characteristics, extraction and pharmacological activities

T. Aswini, K. Dhanusha, K. Priya, R. Shalini, S. Sumithra and W. Helen *

Faculty of Pharmacy, Bharath Institute of Higher Education and Research, Selaiyur, Chennai, Tamil Nadu, India.
 
Review
International Journal of Science and Research Archive, 2024, 12(01), 2457–2475.
Article DOI: 10.30574/ijsra.2024.12.1.0909
Publication history: 
Received on 27 April 2024; revised on 03 June 2024; accepted on 05 June 2024
 
Abstract: 
Herbs used medicinally have a vital role in both treatment and wellness. Compared to produced medications, medicinal plants' bioactivity had less adverse effects, and their many therapeutic benefits can be attributed to their antioxidant characteristics. Consumer interest in natural items as substitutes for synthetic additives or pharmacologically significant drugs has grown significantly in recent years. The public benefits from their uses in the fields of medicine, aromatherapy, microbiology, agriculture, cattle, and the food and pharmaceutical industries. Essential oils are aromatic, volatile liquids that are generated from plant material by steam distillation and are given their name based on the plant from which they originate. The oils were deemed "essential" because it was believed they could capture the essence of a plant's flavour and fragrance. They give plants their unique scent. Because of the concentration of healing chemicals gathered in the oil, essential oils function as the original plant's defence mechanism and have more potency. Aromatherapy uses essential oils extensively to help people unwind, lower stress, get rid of headaches, better sleep, and feel happier. They are beneficial for boosting the immune system and treating mild illnesses because they also have antibacterial, antiviral, and anti-inflammatory qualities. They are a well-liked option for individuals looking for complementary and alternative approaches to health and wellbeing because of their natural origin and efficacy. The purpose of this study is to assess the literature on the nature of essential oils, their potential as therapeutics, and the constituent parts of different types of essential oils.
 
Keywords: 
Aromatherapy; Natural remedies; Antibacterial properties; Holistic health; Skincare; Anti-inflammatory properties.
 
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