Are the Tisserand essential oils organic?
Most of the essential oils used the Tisserand products are organic; those that are not are either wild crafted or ethically harvested.

• Organic
  

  Certified organic essential oils are derived from plants that have been grown without the use of man-made fertilisers, herbicides or pesticides - instead using ecosystem management methods to maintain the health of both plant and soil. There are no inputs such as genetic modification or irradiation. The benefits of organic agriculture include no pollution of the local air or groundwater and no toxic chemicals in the plant or its essential oil, meanwhile maintaining the viability of the local environment. International standards are set by IFOAM (the International Federation of Organic Agriculture Movements), which also accredits many certifying bodies, for example the Soil Association or French Ecocert.

  
  
• Wild Crafted
  Wild crafted essential oils are derived from plants that are not cultivated, but are gathered from their natural, wild habitat. Although they are not organic, they will not have been contaminated by synthetic chemicals (pesticides, fertilisers etc) and will be growing in conditions favourable to the health of the plant. When wild crafting is done sustainably, a plan for harvesting must show that the harvest will sustain the wild crop.



• Ethically Harvested
  This denotes sustainable cultivation. An ethically harvested essential oil is derived from a herb, shrub or tree that is not harvested so aggressively that the species becomes depleted. As far as aromatic plants are concerned, species depletion is only rarely a problem with herbs (which are mostly easy to grow in quantity) but tends to be more of an issue with slow-growing trees.

Can pure essential oils be used neat on the skin?
Essential oils should not be used neat on the skin, as they are highly concentrated.

How can I use essential oils in massage?
As pure essential oils should not be applied directly to the skin, they need to be diluted first. To do this, blend up to 5 drops of essential oil (or blend of oils) with 10mls (two teaspoons) of vegetable oil.

How can I use essential oils in the bath?

Just before getting into a full bath, add 3-5 drops of essential oil (or blend of oils) then agitate the water to disperse. For a luxury version, thoroughly mix the essential oil (or blend) with a cup of full fat milk and/or vegetable oil before adding it to the bath water; in this instance you can use up to 10 drops of essential oil. How can I use essential oils via inhalation? Add 3-5 drops of pure essential oil to a bowl of very hot water (not boiling) and inhale the vapour for 5-10 minutes; the effect will be maximised by placing a towel over the head. If you are out and about, simply add 1-2 drops of essential oil to a tissue and inhale.

How can I use essential oils to fragrance a room?
To create the ambience of your choice, simply add 6-12 drops of essential oil to your favourite vaporiser - perfect for the home or workplace.

Can I use essential oils on young children?
For children under 6 years old, no more than 2 drops of essential oil per 10mls (two teaspoons) of vegetable should be used, and no more than 2 drops of essential oil should be added to their bath or vaporiser. However, if your child is under 2 years old, essential oils should be used with caution; we would advise that you seek the advice of a doctor or suitable practitioner.

Can I use essential oils as an insect repellent?

Some essential oils make a very good alternative to traditional chemical insect repellents. Some of the most effective oils are citronella, lemongrass, geranium, eucalyptus, tea tree and lemon tea-tree. Mix 25 drops of essential oil (or a combination of any of these) with 30mls (6 teaspoons) jojoba oil. Apply to exposed skin areas, ensuring that you reapply frequently. What is the shelf life of essential oils? Essential oils should ideally be used within one year of opening. The best single way to maximise the life of your oils is to keep them in a cool dark place, such as the fridge. If the oil is exposed to heat, air or light, the shelf life will greatly diminish.

When shouldn't essential oils be used?
If you have a skin condition, are pregnant, have epilepsy or asthma, are on a course of treatment with prescribed medication, or are in doubt about any condition you may have, it is important that you seek the advice of a doctor or suitable practitioner before using essential oils.