The special cells and glands that hold the essential oil are found in different parts of different plants. We find essential oils in the flowers of Ylang Ylang (pictured to the right), Chamomile and Lavender, in the wood of Cedarwood, in the tiny roots of Vetiver, in the fresh rind of Orange and distilled Lime, and the leaves of Ravintsara and Peppermint.
Aromatic plants grow all over the world. Since many plants only grow in certain regions, essential oils come from almost every continent. Lavender is famous in France where you can drive through miles of blooming purple Lavender fields in July. Lavender is grown in other countries such as Bulgaria, India, Greece, and in many areas of the United States.
The richly scented Ylang Ylang and Ravintsara come all the way from Madagascar. Chamomile comes from the countryside of England, India, and Nepal. The distilled Lime is from Italy, Mexico, and Peru, and Orange is mainly grown in Spain, Italy, and South Africa. Peppermint is grown in Italy, India, and Nepal, and Vetiver is from Indonesia, Thailand, India, and Haiti. Cedarwood comes from the USA.
As you sample essential oils, you indulge your senses in the diverse scents of the world!
Misty Cassady
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