Inhalation vs Dermal Absorption

Inhalation

Did you know that olfactory stimulation is the only type of sensory information that goes directly to the cerebral cortex? Unlike other senses such as vision, hearing and physical touch, which first pass through the thalamus before reaching the cortex, smell can bypass this filter and send information directly to the brain. This explains why certain scents can evoke strong emotions and memories without conscious effort.

Have you ever wondered why inhalation of essential oils is so effective? It's because oxygen and carbon dioxide can travel through the one-celled membrane of the alveoli and directly enter or exit the bloodstream. This means that when you inhale essential oils, some of the molecules of the oils diffuse into your bloodstream, providing therapeutic benefits to your body.

Dermal Absorption

The human skin is the body's largest organ and has four or five layers. Although it can prevent many substances from entering, it is still permeable. Essential oil molecules can pass through the skin due to the presence of capillaries underneath it. However, the skin is thicker than mucous membranes, so it takes longer for essential oils to be absorbed. Areas of the skin with hair or thin skin also absorb essential oils more slowly than mucous membranes. The palms and soles of the feet absorb essential oils the most slowly.