Skip to content
✓ Coolest Sauna Experience
✓ 100% natural product
✓ For Sauna lover
Mikä on eteerinen öljy ja miten sitä valmistetaan?

What is an essential oil and how is it made?

Essential oils have become very popular in the world of sauna products, well-being and natural fragrances in recent years. Alongside Sauna Menthol, they form an important part of building a modern sauna experience. This article will go over what essential oils are, how they are made and what to consider when using them in a sauna.

What is an essential oil?

An essential oil is a highly concentrated and strongly fragrant extract isolated from a plant, containing the plant's natural aromatic compounds. It is not a fatty oil, despite what the name suggests. Essential oils are volatile, and their scent intensifies in heat, which is why they are perfect for a sauna.

Essential oils are made using huge amounts of plant material. Up to a kilo of plant material can be used to make a single 10 ml bottle, which explains the high concentration and potency of the oils. Sauna Menthol sauna scent is also officially listed as an essential oil, even though its form is solid sauna ice.

What are essential oils used for in a sauna?

In the sauna, essential oil creates a pleasant, natural scent environment. It is often used in combination with menthol to create a fresh and invigorating sauna experience. Applications include:

  • Sauna scents and aromas to add to sauna water
  • Fragrance blends used in sauna treatments
  • Relaxation and recreation rituals
  • Air freshening in the sauna room and bath rooms

Essential oils are so powerful that they should be used with caution and always according to instructions.

How are essential oils made?

The method of making essential oils directly affects the purity, quality and price of the scent. Below are the most common methods.

Steam distillation

Steam distillation is the most widely used method in the world. Plant material is placed in a distillation column through which steam is passed. The steam extracts the aromatic compounds of the plant and transports them to a condenser, where the steam condenses into water. The oil separates on the surface of the water and is collected. This method is used for oils from eucalyptus, mint and conifers, for example.

Cold pressing

Citrus peels are not usually distilled because their aromas are sensitive to heat. Therefore, their oils are produced by cold pressing. The surface cells of the peel are mechanically broken and the oil is pressed out. The end result is a very natural and fresh-smelling oil, such as lemon, lime and orange oil.

Solvent extraction and absolutes

Some plants, such as jasmine and other delicate flowers, cannot withstand heat at all. In these cases, solvent extraction is used, in which the aromatic compounds are gently removed with solvents. The end result is a highly fragrant substance called an absolute, which is used in perfumes, for example.

CO₂ extraction

CO₂ extraction using supercritical carbon dioxide is technically the cleanest and highest quality method. In pressurized form, CO₂ acts as a solvent that captures the aromas of the plant. When the pressure is released, the carbon dioxide burns back to gas, leaving the aromatic compounds behind. The end product is very close to the original scent of the fresh plant.

How to use essential oils safely in a sauna?

Because essential oils are highly concentrated, they should never be poured directly onto a heater undiluted. They may ignite, evaporate too much, or cause irritation.

Safe uses in the sauna:

  • Add oil to the sauna water only a few drops at a time
  • Avoid skin contact without dilution.
  • Only use oils intended for sauna use.
  • Do not use cosmetic grade essential oils in saunas.
  • Test a small amount on first use to check for fragrance sensitivity.

The essential oil works well with menthol: menthol brings a fresh feeling of coolness, while the oil complements the aroma of the sauna.

Summary

Essential oils are natural, powerful and versatile fragrances that can be used in a sauna to enhance and enrich the sauna experience. They are produced using a variety of methods, from steam distillation to CO₂ extraction, and each method produces a slightly different scent profile. When used correctly and safely, the oils pair perfectly with Sauna Menthol and make your home sauna a luxurious experience.

Previous Post Next Post

Leave a comment

Please note, comments need to be approved before they are published.