illóanyagoknál

Illóanyagoknál refers to the concept of essential oils or volatile aromatic compounds in Hungarian. These are highly concentrated hydrophobic liquids containing volatile chemical compounds from plants. Essential oils are usually extracted by distillation, often with steam. Other methods include expression, or less commonly, cold pressing, solvent extraction, or CO2 extraction. They are called "essential" because they are believed to capture the "essence" of the plant's fragrance and flavor, or "essence."

The chemical composition of essential oils varies greatly and depends on the plant species, the part of the plant used (flowers, leaves, bark, roots, etc.), and the method of extraction. They are complex mixtures of organic compounds, primarily terpenes, terpenoids, phenylpropanoids, and aliphatic compounds. These compounds are responsible for the characteristic aroma and often the therapeutic properties of the essential oils.

Essential oils have been used for centuries in various cultures for their aromatic and medicinal properties. They are commonly employed in aromatherapy, perfumery, cosmetics, and as natural flavorings in food and beverages. Some essential oils are known for their potential antimicrobial, anti-inflammatory, or anxiolytic effects, although scientific research is ongoing to validate these uses. It is important to note that essential oils are potent substances and should be used with caution, often diluted in a carrier oil, and not ingested unless under strict professional guidance.