Why Essential Oils Are, Well, Essential

When you think of “essential oils” what comes to mind? Aromatherapy? Horoscopes? Aaron Rodgers and his ayahuasca shaman? The truth is, these powerhouse liquids not only play a critical role in making Squatch products smell great, but they bring a ton of benefits to the table too. I mean, it’s right there in the name…ESSENTIAL, and for good reason. Let’s dive in.

What exactly is an essential oil?
TL;DR, essential oils are oils distilled from plants. More specifically, they’re concentrated phytochemicals with distinct aromatic compounds that are obtained by distillation or other means like cold pressing. Once the aromatic chemicals have been extracted, they are combined with a neutral carrier oil to create an oil that’s ready for use in products or on its own.

Why use essential oils?
‘Cause they smell doooope. Ok, yes, there’s more. In addition to bringing pure, natural, long-lasting scents that smell like the great outdoors to the party, essential oils can provide additional benefits to our soaps, deodorants, hair care and more. Essential oils can bring anti-inflammatory and calming benefits, contribute energizing and mood-boosting properties, and help rejuvenate and restore. Synthetic and manufactured fragrances are created in labs using petroleum, natural gas bases and other nasty chemicals. Naturally-derived essential oil scents also help us stay true to our mission of using only the finest natural ingredients available.

Where da oils at?
We’re making it rain with essential oil goodness throughout our lineup, here’s a quick rundown on a few of our go-to faves.

We use these and other essential oils in our soaps, deodorants, hair care, and more.

Orange Essential Oil - Bright and energizing, this oil can be used in aromatherapy to activate a feeling of alertness.

Peppermint Essential Oil - Grown and distilled by farmers in the great plains of northern India, peppermint essential oil can be used for both aromatherapy and natural fragrance. It contains aromatic compounds that cool the skin and scalp, and is known to promote an elevated mood and nasal clarity.

Eucalyptus Essential Oil - Eucalyptus oil is derived from the namesake tree and has a bright, powerful aroma that is refreshing and especially beneficial for the respiratory system.

Cedarwood Essential Oil - In addition to it’s crisp, woodsy fragrance, Cedarwood promotes an even tone in problem areas of the skin when used topically. It contains vitamins C and E both of which can help to calm and soothe.

Pine Essential Oil - In addition to its fresh, rugged scent, Pine Oil can bring calming and comforting properties as an ingredient.

Clary Sage Essential Oil - Fresh and herbaceous, Clary sage can reduce skin irritation and improves the overall health of your skin. It is known to stimulate the hair follicles to help achieve a healthy, full bodied head of hair.

Cypress Essential Oil - In addition to its refreshing scent, Cypress may assist with issues associated with excess oils in the hair follicle, making it a great addition to hair care products.

Holy Basil Essential Oil - Holy basil is rich in antioxidants that have capabilities to combat oxidative stress which may lead to premature aging of the skin. It is also a great herb for overall oral wellness.

Rosemary Essential Oil - In aromatherapy rosemary is known to promote alertness and focus. It acts as a strong antioxidant that can help combat free radicals that lead to premature aging.

Patchouli Essential Oil - With it’s rich, earthy scent this essential oil it is often inhaled to encourage relaxation when used in aromatherapy. Patchouli may also help to soothe the skin on the scalp for a healthy head of hair.

Wanna take a deeper dive into more of the natural ingredients we use in all of our goods? Right this way to our Ingredient Glossary.