This works nicely, but I didn’t notice much of a warming effect. It’s very strongly scented like citronella, although the ingredients don’t list lemongrass as an ingredient.
FAQ
Usage of Essential and Virgin plant Oils
What is an essential oil?
What is an essential oil?
An essential oil is a naturally aromatic liquid extract obtained from plants, such as their flowers, leaves, stems, roots, bark, or fruit. It is generally obtained by steam distillation or cold pressing.
Essential oils are highly concentrated and contain volatile compounds found in the original plant. They have distinct and characteristic scents, as well as varied therapeutic uses. Each essential oil has a unique chemical composition that allows for a unique effect on the body and emotions.
It is important to note that essential oils are very powerful and should be used with caution. Usually, they must be diluted in a plant oil before being applied to the skin, and some essential oils can be toxic if ingested without proper supervision.
What is a plant oil?
What is a plant oil?
A plant oil is an oil extracted from the seeds, nuts, or fruits of oleaginous plants. Plant oils are traditionally made by cold press extraction, where seeds or nuts are mechanically pressed to extract the oil. This method preserves most of the nutrients and beneficial compounds present in the seeds.
Plant oils are also derived from the fatty substances extracted from a plant's seeds, pips, and kernels. Examples include apricot kernel, jojoba, avocado, nigella, argan, sweet almond, rosehip, and evening primrose oils.
Oily macerates are made by soaking a plant's active components in a neutral plant oil. Usually this is sunflower oil, which is able to absorb a maximum number of active molecules. Examples include Carrot, St. John's Wort, Arnica and Calendula macerates.
Plant oils are used for a variety of purposes, including cosmetics, as ingredients in skin care products, lotions, creams, soaps and hair care products. Gentle and simple to use, they can be used alone or in combination with other plant oils.
Plant oils can usually be used by the whole family. In particular, more neutral oils, such as sweet almond or apricot kernel oil. Be careful, however, with rosehip oil, which is not always tolerated by sensitive skin. When using a plant oil for the first time, it is best to first test it by applying a very small amount to the elbow crease.
What is a hydrolate?
What is a hydrolate?
A hydrolate, also known as floral water, is obtained through the steam distallation of aromatic plants. It consists of the distilled water, which has separated from the essential oil. During the distillation process of a plant, two products are created: the essential oil and aromatic hydrolate.
Hydrolates are easier to use and much better tolerated than essential oils, as they contain mostly water with a low concentration of aromatic molecules.
They are commonly used in therapeutic care and as ingredients in cosmetic formulations, such as lotions, creams, or masks. They can also be used to refresh, soothe, hydrate, and balance the skin; they are suitable for all skin types, including sensitive skin.
Hydrolates are very “gentle” compared to essential oils and have no particular contraindications. One exception, however, are Rosemary and Tea-Tree hydrolates, which are recommended for use on children over the age of 3, and not from birth.
The hydrolates developed by the Pranarôm laboratory are 100% pure, derived from certified 100% organic fresh plants, undiluted (no water added), and without additives (perfumes, preservatives, or alcohol). Additionally, they are packaged in metal spray bottles with compressed air. This allows for a fine misting and a 100% pure and natural hydrolate.
What is the equivalent of 1 ml of essential oil and 1 ml of plant oil?
What is the equivalent of 1 ml of essential oil and 1 ml of plant oil?
Although oil doses are often given in drops, it's good to know that:
- 1 ml of essential oil = 30 drops of essential oil
- 1 ml of plant oil = 25 drops of plant oil
- 1 teaspoon =5 ml
- 1 tablespoon = 15 ml (traditionally, one tablespoon is equal to 3 teaspoons).
Do I need to dilute my essential oil with a plant oil?
Do I need to dilute my essential oil with a plant oil?
In general, it is recommended that essential oils be diluted in a plant oil before applying them to the skin. Essential oils are potent concentrates obtained from plants and can be irritating or cause adverse reactions when directly applied to the skin.
Plant oils are excellent carriers for essential oils and do not alter the effectiveness of the essential oil. Properly chosen according to the problem to be treated, plant oils will even work in synergy with essential oils.
The more often essential oils are used, whether for cosmetic purposes or over a large area of the body, the more they tend to be diluted.
Can essential oils be mixed together?
Can essential oils be mixed together?
Yes, essential oils can be combined together. The synergy of the combined essential oils creates a new product with complementary, tenfold properties, reinforcing the individual therapeutic effects of each.
When mixing essential oils, it is recommended that certain guidelines be followed:
1. Know the properties and precautions of each of the essential oils
2. Choose complementary essential oils according to the desired objective. For example, if you want to create a soothing blend for sleep, combine essential oils such as English lavender, Roman chamomile and Marjoram.
3. Maintain a correct ratio. The dilution of essential oils in a plant oil will vary according to use and the problem being treated. The following dilutions are traditionally used:
- 1% essential oil: cosmetic usage (skin care)
- 3%: skin restorative usage
- 5%: nervous system usage
- 7%: circulatory system usage
- 10%: muscles and joints usage
- 15%: sport and competition usages
- 20%: dilution for dermo-caustic essential oils (Sweet Orange, Oregano Vulgaria, Wintergreen, etc.)
- 30%: very strong localized usage
-From 50% to 100%: therapeutic usage (limited time)
How can I check that my essential oil is of good quality?
How can I check that my essential oil is of good quality?
When buying an essential oil, here are some key points to check to make sure it's of the highest quality:
1. Botanical name
Check that the botanical name of the plant is listed on the label. An essential oil must be identified by two Latin names: the first name designates the genus, and the second is the species. E.g., Eucalyptus radiata
2. The part of the plant which has been distilled
Various parts of the same plant (flower, leaf, stem, bark, root, etc.) can produce different essences. It is therefore just as important to specify which part of the plant has been used in creating the oil.
3. Chemotype (chemical name)
The chemical composition of a given plant's essential oil can vary depending on factors such as sunshine, climate, soil composition, and altitude.
Two chemotypes of the same plant may have different chemical profiles and, therefore, different therapeutic properties. E.g., Cinnamomum camphora ct linalool (Ho wood) vs. Cinnamomum camphora ct cinéole (Ravintsara).
4. Origin
The name of the country or region provides interesting details about the biotope (environment) of the aromatic plant and will affect its biochemical composition.
The guarantee of a quality essential oil is also reflected in its packaging: the information that it contains must be complete and rigorous.
How do I store my blend of essential and plant oils?
How do I store my blend of essential and plant oils?
An essential oil blend can be stored for 1 year. However, a blend of essential and plant oils should be used within 3-6 months. We recommend keeping it in its original packaging or in an aromatherapy cabinet and closing the bottle tightly to preserve the richness of its aromatic molecules.
Use tinted glass bottles to protect the blends from UV rays, and clearly label each bottle with the name of the blend, the essential oils used, and the date it was made. Finally, use dropper bottles or pipettes to sample the blends and avoid cross-contamination.
By following these recommendations, you'll ensure optimum preservation of your essential and plant oils’ synergies.
What are the different ways of administering essential oils?
What are the different ways of administering essential oils?
There are several ways to administer essential oils. The principal methods are:
- By mouth: Never administer essential oils directly into the mouth.
It's a good idea to count the drops as you drop them onto a spoon, for example, to make sure you're using the right amount. If required, they can be diluted in a neutral medium, such as a teaspoon of plant oil or honey, on a neutral tablet, on a lump of cane sugar, or in a little yogurt. You can also opt for Pranarôm Essential oil Pearls: pre-measured and already diluted, they have the advantage of combining the effectiveness of essential oils with safe use. - Cutaneously: This is the direct application of essential oils to the skin. As some essential oils can be irritating, it is advisable to dilute them in a plant oil before massaging or rubbing them into the skin.
- Olfactory : Essential oils can be inhaled to benefit from their aromatic properties. This can be done using an essential oil diffuser, an aromatherapy nasal inhaler, or by breathing directly from the bottle.
As an active ingredient in cosmetic products, essential oils can be added to the preparation of hair and skin care products such as shampoos, masks, balms, shower gels, etc.
Do essential oils cause photosensitivity?
Do essential oils cause photosensitivity?
Some essential oils do cause photosensitivity, which means they can increase the skin's sensitivity to sunlight and cause undesirable skin reactions, such as burns or sunburn. Photosensitizing essential oils mainly belong to the citrus family, such as lemon, bergamot, sweet orange, grapefruit, etc.
Direct exposure to sunlight or UV rays should therefore be for at least 8 hours after cutaneous application of these essential oils.
Can I use essential oils with my child?
Can I use essential oils with my child?
Essential oils can be used as a diffusion around young children and babies, but a few rules must be observed to avoid any adverse reactions.
Diffusions should be short, between 5 and 10 minutes every hour or every 2 hours, two or three times a day. It is important to always follow the recommendations regarding diffusion. When using around an infant, do not set up a diffusion in the nursery while the child sleeps. It is also advisable to stop the diffusion at least 15 minutes before bedtime to avoid sleep disruptions.
Essential oils can be applied to the skin if they are strongly diluted with plant oils. As a child's skin is very sensitive and very thin, it is easy to cause skin irritations:
- For children from 6 to 12 years old: 1 to 2 drops, 3 to 4 times a day
- For children under 6 and pregnant women: consult a health professional before use.
The use of essential oils with babies requires a great deal of caution and a good knowledge of aromatherapy.
That's why we've developed a whole range of essential oil-based products designed especially for them: the PranaKids range.
It's quite possible to blend your own essential oils at home. In that case, here's an article outlining the basic rules for using essential oils on babies: https://www.pranarom.fr/fr/blog/post/soigner-mon-bebe-avec-des-huiles-essentielles-.html
If you have any questions, don't hesitate to ask your pharmacist, consultant, or aromatherapist.
What ingredients are used in Pranarom products?
What ingredients are used in Pranarom products?
Pranarôm uses a wide range of high quality natural ingredients in its products. The lists of ingredients used in products are regularly updated. To know the precise ingredients of a Pranarôm product, please consult the particular product's page, which will provide you with accurate and up-to-date information on the ingredients used, which will allow you to check their suitability for your personal needs and uses. If you have additional questions about a specific product, please feel free to contact Pranarôm directly for detailed information.
I have asthma, can I use essential oils?
I have asthma, can I use essential oils?
In asthmatics, bronchial sensitivity can lead to hyperactivity of the respiratory system.
Avoid using highly irritating essential oils such as cinnamon essential oil for cutaneous use, olfaction, or diffusion, as well as Essential oils rich in 1,8 cineole (Eucalyptus globulus Essential oil or AROMAFORCE Natural Defense Solution).
For other essential oils, we advise you to briefly sniff the scent the first time, and if no respiratory discomfort is felt, the essential oil can be used without concern.
We strongly advise against diffusing Essential oils in the home if you have uncontrolled asthma.
See a qualified professional, such as a doctor or aromatherapist, before using essential oils if you are asthmatic.
I take anticoagulants, can I take an essential oil?
I take anticoagulants, can I take an essential oil?
If you are taking anticoagulants, it is important to exercise caution when using essential oils, as some may have anticoagulant (and therefore blood-thinning) properties, or interfere with anticoagulant medication. This is the case, for example, with Wintergreen Essential oil.
If in doubt, ask your doctor or pharmacist for advice before using essential oils.
I have a seizure disorder; can I use essential oils?
I have a seizure disorder; can I use essential oils?
People with a seizure disorder should avoid essential oils rich in ketones or with a high 1,8 cineole content.
This is particularly true of Dill, Caraway, Atlas Cedar, Mentholated Eucalyptus, Pennyroyal Mint, French Lavender, Spearmint, Non-organic Eucalyptus globulus, Peppermint, Rosemary Cineole, and Rosemary ct Camphor essential oils.
Seek the advice of a qualified professional, such as a doctor or aromatherapist, before using Essential oils if you have a seizure disorder.
What do I do in the case of an allergic reaction?
What do I do in the case of an allergic reaction?
It is possible to have a reaction to a particular essential oil.
If an allergic reaction occurs, stop using the product immediately and contact a healthcare professional.
If irritation occurs, it may be the result of using a pure irritating essential oil or one that has not been sufficiently diluted. If you have any doubts about whether an essential oil is irritating or not, it is advisable to dilute it in equal parts with a plant oil, especially if you have sensitive skin.
Are Pranarôm essential oils comedogenic?
Are Pranarôm essential oils comedogenic?
An essential oil is said to be comedogenic when it tends to clog the skin's pores and encourage the appearance of comedones, pimples, and blackheads. These oils are generally rather thick, penetrate the skin slowly, and are sensitive to oxidation.
Unlike some plant oils, essential oils are not comedogenic.
Pranarôm laboratory plant oils are virgin, ORGANIC, first cold-pressed or macerated.
The comedogenic effect will depend on the skin type, the constituents of the plant oil, their ability to penetrate the skin, their base quality, their preservation, and their resistance to oxidation. The most comedogenic plant oils are wheat germ, coconut, and rose hip oils.
Do Pranarôm essential oils contain alcohol?
Do Pranarôm essential oils contain alcohol?
Unlike some essential oils which are diluted and denatured with vegetable or mineral oils, synthetic molecules, chemical emulsifiers, turpentine, or alcohol, Pranarôm’s essential oils are 100% pure and 100% natural.
In the event of accidental exposure to or ingestion of an essential oil, what should I do? Can my health be endangered?
In the event of accidental exposure to or ingestion of an essential oil, what should I do? Can my health be endangered?
In cases of accidental exposure or ingestion, discontinue the use of essential oil immediately.
The first thing to do is to dilute the essential oil by immediately applying a plant oil to the skin, or by ingesting it if the essential oil was swallowed, then contact a Poison Control Center.
Watch for symptoms (headache, stomachache, nausea, vomiting, etc.). If the symptoms are severe or worsen, go to the emergency room.
Why do you offer organic and non-organic essential oils?
Why do you offer organic and non-organic essential oils?
True to our absolute respect for plants and nature, we work closely with essential oil producers. As far as possible, we source from organic harvests, with respect to the laws of the producing countries and, above all, give priority to quality.
As not all countries have an organic accreditation body, it is sometimes simply impossible to find an ORGANIC ingredient such as Himalayan Spikenard, but this does not prevent us from obtaining excellent quality essential oils.
In addition, systematic tests are carried out on each batch of essential oils to ensure that they are 100% pure and 100% natural.
Whether our essential oil is ORGANIC or conventional, in both cases, we apply very strict criteria in terms of pesticide residues.
Diffusers and diffusion blends
Can I diffuse essential oils in the same room as my baby?
Can I diffuse essential oils in the same room as my baby?
Essential oils are very effective when diffused, they can create a relaxing atmosphere, stimulate natural defenses, or purify the air in your baby's room (over 3 months of age). Nevertheless, a few precautions should be taken with diffusion, even after choosing the right essential oils for your baby.
1. Use essential oils suitable for diffusion around babies, such as Lemon, Bergamot , English Lavender, or Bitter Orange. For added convenience, opt for blends specially formulated for diffusion around babies, such as our Prana BB Sleep Mixture to ensure a restful night's sleep or the Purifying Diffusion Mixture to purify a baby's nursery.
2. Avoid irritating essential oils such as peppermint, eucalyptus, rosemary, clove, thyme, or cinnamon.
3. Use a suitable diffuser and maintain a light diffusion in the room. Make sure the room is properly ventilated after each diffusion.
4. Monitor your baby's reactions. If signs of respiratory distress, skin irritation, or other adverse reactions occur, stop the diffusion immediately and consult a healthcare professional.
5. Never diffuse essential oils in the presence of young children. Wait for the diffusion to stop before entering the room.
6. It's better to diffuse every 2 hours for 10-15 minutes, rather than continuously.
If in doubt, consult a qualified healthcare professional or aromatherapist for the appropriate essential oils for your baby.
Can I diffuse any essential oil?
Can I diffuse any essential oil?
Not all essential oils are suitable for diffusion. Some essential oils are too powerful, irritating or potentially toxic when released into the air, especially in excessive amounts or over a long period of time. Some essential oils can also cause respiratory tract sensitivities in certain people.
Here are some things to consider before diffusing an essential oil:
1. Some essential oils are not suitable for diffusion, such as the essential oils of Star Anise, Cade, German Chamomile, Chinese Cinnamon, Caraway, Java Lemongrass, Cistus Ladanifer, Turmeric, Sweet Fennel, American Wintergreen, Fragrant Wintergreen, Curry Plant, Laurel, Peppermint, Winter Savory, Rosemary, Sage, and Blue Tansy.
2. Other essential oils are more suitable for diffusion. Choose essential oils with soothing, relaxing or purifying properties for diffusion in a domestic environment. Common examples are essential oils of English Lavender, Lemon, Sweet Orange, Bitter Orange or Ravintsara.
3. Take account of people in the environment: essential oils containing ketones are not recommended for children, pregnant women, or people with seizure disorders. These include the following essential oils: Dill, Caraway, Atlas Cedar, Mentholated Eucalyptus, Pennyroyal Mint, French Lavender, Spearmint, Non-organic Eucalyptus globulus, Peppermint, Rosemary Cineole, and Rosemary ct Camphor essential oils.
Other essential oils are neurotoxic, such as Common Sage, Common Hyssop. Finally, the scent of certain essential oils is unsuitable for diffusion, either alone or blended, such as Cumin, Curry plant, and Roman Chamomile.
Caution must be exercised when choosing the right essential oils to diffuse. Observe safety precautions and take account of the people who will be in the vicinity. If you have any doubts or specific questions, it is best to consult a qualified health professional or aromatherapist.
Can I diffuse essential oils while I am pregnant or breastfeeding?
Can I diffuse essential oils while I am pregnant or breastfeeding?
Essential oils should be used with caution by pregnant women.
Avoid the following essential oils:
- Uterotonic essential oils, i.e., those rich in eugenol and geraniol: Palmarosa and Clove essential oils
- Neurotoxic essential oils: Dill, Caraway, Atlas Cedar, Mentholated Eucalyptus, Pennyroyal, Mint, French Lavender, Spearmint, Non-organic Eucalyptus globulus, Peppermint, Rosemary Cineole, and Rosemary ct Camphor
- Blood-thinning essential oils: Cinnamon and Wintergreen.
Pregnant women are advised to not ingest these.
When applied to the skin, the oils must be diluted and never applied to the abdomen.
In the case of diffusion, choose the shortest possible duration and take sensitivity to odors into account.
Choose milder essential oils in accordance with your needs:
• To purify the air: Grapefruit, Ravintsara, Bitter Orange, French Lavender, Rose Geranium, Lemon, Mandarin, Sweet Orange
• To relax and promote sleep: Bergamot, French Lavender, Mandarin, Sweet Orange, and Roman Chamomile
What if you have a history of hormone-dependent cancer?
What if you have a history of hormone-dependent cancer?
In cases of a history of hormone-dependent cancer, avoid prolonged use of Star Anise, Fennel, and Common Sage essential oils, as they have an estrogen-like effect.
Customer Accounts
How do I create a Pranarôm customer account?
How do I create a Pranarôm customer account?
Either by clicking on the tab at the top right of the site, by clicking on the "character" icon, or when placing an order.
How do I modify my shipping address?
How do I modify my shipping address?
In the customer area, in the "Addresses" section, change your postal address and click on "Save".
Do I need to create an account to place an order?
Do I need to create an account to place an order?
The creation of a customer account is not required to place an order.
On the other hand, having a customer account allows you to save your favorite products in a Wishlist, benefit from simplified order tracking, and will allow you to more easily place an order the next time you visit our site.
I forgot my password. What should I do?
I forgot my password. What should I do?
Your username corresponds to your email address.
If you forget your password, use the "Forgot my password" option on the site's login page. You will then receive an e-mail with a link that will allow you to reset your password.
What is a Wishlist?
What is a Wishlist?
A Wishlist allows users to create a customized list of items they would like to purchase or receive at any given time. This list can be saved and accessed later, making it easier to manage items of interest without the need for an immediate purchase.
How do I create my Wishlist?
How do I create my Wishlist?
To create your Wishlist, simply click on the "Heart" icon at the top right of any product page.
Please note, however, that you will need to create a customer account to be able to retrieve your saved favorites.
I'm not receiving your emails and newsletters; what should I do?
I'm not receiving your emails and newsletters; what should I do?
1. Check your junk mail (spam) folder: Sometimes emails may be automatically filtered into your spam folder by your email provider. If you find emails there, mark them as "non-spam" so that our next emails will appear in your inbox.
2. If the emails are not in your spam folder, check your customer area to make sure this box has been checked.
3. If you have completed the previous steps and are still not receiving emails and newsletters, contact customer service via the contact form.
I would like to unsubscribe from your emails; how can I do this?
I would like to unsubscribe from your emails; how can I do this?
If you are a customer: Log in to your account and go to your personal space. Deactivate the option in the "My preferences" section.
For a user who has never placed an order: an unsubscribe link can be found in one of the e-mails you have received from this site. After clicking on the unsubscribe link, you will be redirected to a page where you will need to confirm your unsubscription.
How can I delete my account?
How can I delete my account?
For all account deletion requests, please contact our customer service department via our contact form.
Orders
How long will it take for my order to be shipped?
How long will it take for my order to be shipped?
Orders are shipped within 1-2 business days after receipt of payment.
Once your order is prepared and shipped from our warehouses, you will receive a notification email informing you that your order has been shipped. In this e-mail, you will also find a tracking link that will allow you to follow the progress of your purchase until delivery.
How do I use a promo code?
How do I use a promo code?
After selecting your products, go to your cart.
Fill in the "Promo Code" field, then click "Apply Coupon Code" on the delivery information page.
Verify that the discount has been applied correctly to your order total.
Complete your order by following the payment and approval steps.
I forgot to add my promo code. What should I do?
I forgot to add my promo code. What should I do?
It is not possible to apply the coupon code once the order has been placed. However, if the promo code is still valid and has not expired, you will be able to use it on your next order.
What payment methods do you accept?
What payment methods do you accept?
Our website allows you to pay with a credit card or via Apple Pay, Discover, Meta, Google Pay and Shop pay.
How do I access my order tracking?
How do I access my order tracking?
To track your order, use the tracking number or link provided in the shipping confirmation e-mail, or log in to your account and go to the "My Orders" section.
Orders and returns
I don't have any information about my order’s delivery; what should I do?
I don't have any information about my order’s delivery; what should I do?
Once the order has been shipped, you will receive an email with a tracking number. This tracking number can be used to track your order by clicking on the link provided in the email or by going to your customer account, under the "Orders" tab and searching for the associated order number.
If you do not have any tracking information after 30 days or if you have any problems with the delivery, please contact Customer Service. We will contact the carrier and attempt to resolve the issue. Please note that we cannot make any order returns or refunds until we have investigation your claim.
I have a problem with my order, what should I do?
I have a problem with my order, what should I do?
If you encounter a delivery problem and your order is shown as delivered but you have not received it, please contact Customer Service within 24 hours. We'll do everything we can to find an appropriate solution for your situation.
In the case of damaged packages or broken items, photos must be provided as proof of the condition of the damaged package or item.
How can purchases by returned?
How can purchases by returned?
1. Contact Customer Service to let is know your want to return the product. You will then receive detailed instructions, along with a prepaid return label, if applicable.
2. Be sure to return all products in their original packaging and in perfect condition.
3. Include the return form provided by Customer Service in the package being sent back.
4. Return shipping charges are the responsibility of the purchaser.
5. Once we have received the returned products and checked their condition, Customer Service will issue a refund, not including shipping costs.
6. Please note that undamaged purchases must be returned within 14 days, in accordance with our general terms and conditions of sale.
If you have any further questions or need additional assistance, please do not hesitate to contact our customer service department.
What is the return period?
What is the return period?
In accordance with our general conditions of sale, the return period is 14 days from receipt of the package.
When will I receive my refund?
When will I receive my refund?
The refund period is 14 business days from receipt of the returned package, and will be refunded via the same payment method used for the original purchase.
Retailers
I am a pharmacist /healthcare professional and would like to become a distributor of Pranarom products. How do I this?
I am a pharmacist /healthcare professional and would like to become a distributor of Pranarom products. How do I this?
To become a distributor of Pranarôm products, follow these steps:
Go to the Pranarôm home page.
Click on the "Pro Space" link at the top of the home page or the "Distribute Our Products" link at the bottom of the page.
You will be redirected to the Inula Group's website, they are the distributor of Pranarôm products.
Under "Become a Pro Customer", select "Become a Pro (PARA)PHARMACY Customer".
Fill in your customer information in the form provided, then send your request.
If you would like to be contacted by an Inula sales representative in your area, check this box when submitting your request.