Aldehydes

You may wonder why some essential oils like Lime and Lemon not only smell amazing, but also make you feel so refreshed and calm. Well, many of the great properties of these essential oils come from aldehydes. 

Aldehydes are a chemical functional group, characterized by their polar carbonyl group (C=O), which is attached to at least one hydrogen. They are some of the most aromatic molecules in essential oils with slightly fruity aroma. Aldehydes can easily be oxidized into carboxylic acids, and can potentially be irritating when coming in direct contact with skin. It is, therefore, very important to dilute essential oils that contain many aldehydes before putting them directly on your skin. They can be diluted in carrier oils, mild oils that help carry essential oils into the skin such as baobab, jojoba, and argon oil. 

Aldehydes have many terrific qualities, and are present in many essential oils. They are very aromatic, and contribute to most of the scent of essential oils. They also have antiviral and anti-inflammatory properties. Many aldehydes, such as citral and citronellal have mild sedative properties and can be used to treat anxiety or insomnia. Examples of these Aldehydes are Eucalyptus and Lemongrass. Aldehydes can calm the central and autonomic nervous system and ease nervous tension. They are also more effective at lower concentration so make sure you dilute your essential oils in order to get the best out of them!

Essentique carries many essential oils that are abundant in aldehydes. Lemongrass, lemon, ginger, and eucalyptus all help in relieving stress and anxiety, and calming the mind. The essential oil blend Bonne Santé contains lemon and eucalyptus, Citrulicious contains a blend of citrus essential oils including lemon, Délicat contains ginger, Steady Heart also contain lemon and ginger, rich in aldehydes. Next time you visit Essentique, be sure to try one of these essential oils!