Aromatherapy Knowledge Answers and Questions 2 — Questions and Answers
Question 1: Which extraction method is most commonly used to produce true essential oils from plant material?
- Steam distillation (Correct answer)
- Cold pressing with solvents
- Enfleurage with animal fat
- Maceration in vinegar
Correct answer: Steam distillation
Steam distillation is the standard method for producing most essential oils.
Question 2: Citrus essential oils such as lemon and bergamot are typically obtained by which method?
- Cold expression (pressing) of the peel (Correct answer)
- Steam distillation of the flowers
- CO2 extraction of the seeds
- Solvent extraction of the leaves
Correct answer: Cold expression (pressing) of the peel
Citrus oils are cold-pressed from the fruit rind to preserve their aroma.
Question 3: What is a 'carrier oil' used for in aromatherapy?
- Diluting essential oils for safe skin application (Correct answer)
- Increasing the concentration of essential oils
- Speeding up evaporation of the oil
- Neutralizing the aroma of essential oils
Correct answer: Diluting essential oils for safe skin application
Carrier oils dilute essential oils so they can be applied safely to the skin.
Question 4: Which of the following is a common carrier oil?
- Sweet almond oil (Correct answer)
- Peppermint essential oil
- Eucalyptus essential oil
- Tea tree essential oil
Correct answer: Sweet almond oil
Sweet almond oil is a widely used carrier oil for dilution.
Question 5: Why should undiluted essential oils generally not be applied directly to the skin?
- They can cause irritation or sensitization (Correct answer)
- They evaporate too slowly
- They lose their scent immediately
- They stain the skin permanently
Correct answer: They can cause irritation or sensitization
Neat essential oils are highly concentrated and may irritate or sensitize skin.
Question 6: Which essential oil is traditionally associated with promoting relaxation and sleep?
- Lavender (Correct answer)
- Peppermint
- Rosemary
- Lemongrass
Correct answer: Lavender
Lavender is widely used for its calming and sleep-supporting properties.
Question 7: What does the term 'aromatherapy' most accurately describe?
- The therapeutic use of essential oils from plants (Correct answer)
- The blending of synthetic fragrances
- The study of plant taxonomy
- The distillation of alcohol from herbs
Correct answer: The therapeutic use of essential oils from plants
Aromatherapy is the therapeutic use of plant-derived essential oils.
Aromatherapy Knowledge Answers and Questions 2
Which extraction method is most commonly used to produce true essential oils from plant material?