As a natural perfumery expert, I have dedicated years to studying and working with essential oils and natural fragrances. Through my experience, I have come to understand that there is a significant difference between the two. While both are derived from natural sources, their manufacturing processes and end results are not the same. Essential oils are extracted using methods such as cold pressing and steam distillation, which ensure that all of the aromatic compounds are extracted from the plant. This allows for the therapeutic properties of the original plant to be preserved.
On the other hand, natural fragrances are a combination of essential oils, floral extracts, and other ingredients that produce aromas of plant origin. These ingredients may not be extracted using the same methods as essential oils, and therefore may not retain all of their therapeutic properties. To ensure that you are getting a truly natural fragrance, it is important to look for essential oil manufacturers who are transparent about their extraction process. They may offer flowcharts or undergo additional GCMS tests to verify that no additional components are added during production. This is crucial because some manufacturers may use synthetic fragrances or other additives to enhance the scent of their products. Unfortunately, due to trade secrets and labeling laws, manufacturers are not required to disclose the specific ingredients in their fragrances.
This lack of transparency can make it difficult for consumers to make informed decisions about the products they purchase. In fact, many natural aromatic oils would not pass the rigorous MADE SAFE certification due to this lack of information. Modern natural perfumery often uses absolute ingredients for scents such as jasmine, rose, and orange blossom. These ingredients cannot withstand the steam distillation process used for essential oils, so they must be extracted using other methods. This is why you may see the words “made with natural fragrances” on some products, but it's important to approach these claims with caution and do your own research. Now that you understand the difference between essential oils and natural fragrances, you can make more informed decisions when purchasing scented products.
Keep in mind that natural ingredients can also be processed in a way that retains at least 50% of their molecular structure. This means that not all natural fragrances are created equal, and it's important to do your own research and choose products from reputable manufacturers. The word “natural” has become a popular buzzword in recent years, as health and wellness have become more widespread in the consumer products industry. However, it's important to remember that just because something is labeled as “natural” doesn't necessarily mean it is better or safer for you. Synthetic fragrances may be derived from laboratory chemicals, but natural scents are made from plant raw materials.
It's up to you to decide which option is best for you and your lifestyle. One of the most fascinating things about natural fragrances is the beautiful processes used to make them. From the extraction of essential oils to the blending of different scents, there is a certain romance and allure to these ingredients. And just like the plants themselves, the scent of natural fragrances can vary from person to person and change over time. When it comes to soap, the use of natural colorants is also important. According to appropriate definitions of “natural”, colorants used in soaps must come from natural sources.
This ensures that the soap is truly natural and free from synthetic dyes or additives. As more and more people become aware of the potential dangers of synthetic fragrances, there has been a rise in products made with natural fragrances being marketed as safe and healthy alternatives. While this may be true in some cases, it's important to do your own research and not just rely on marketing claims. Look for products from reputable manufacturers who are transparent about their ingredients and processes.
