What are Essential Oil Chemotypes? Thyme, Basil, Rosemary Guide

Jennifer Lane - Certified Aromatherapist on

Essential Oil Chemotypes are the naturally occurring chemical variants of an essential oil. Essential oils are complex mixes of chemicals that give each oil its unique aroma and therapeutic properties. Essential Oil Chemotypes are important to consider when selecting an oil for aromatherapy or topical use, as the different chemotypes can have different effects on the body.

What are Essential Oil Chemotypes? - A Quick Guide by Loving Essential Oils

When buying and using essential oils you may come across the word chemotype or see something like this:

Rosemary ct. camphor or the botanical name of Rosemarinus officinalis ct. camphor

The ct. abbreviation means "chemotype". In this example, "ct. camphor" refers to the chemotype of rosemary, which contains high levels of camphor. You may also see it simply written Rosemary Camphor.

After reading this quick guide on essential oil chemotypes you will have a greater understanding of what they are and why they are important to aromatherapy.

Essential Oil Chemotypes for Thyme, Basil, Sage, and Rosemary by Loving Essential Oils

What are Essential Oil Chemotypes?

"Chemotype" means a different chemical type.

Chemotypes are plants of the same genus and species which look identical but have a variation in the chemical components of their essential oils due to different conditions of growth. The listed chemotype is the oil’s overriding constituent. 

Not all plants produce chemotypes, but some have the genetic ability to produce different chemical constituents based on environmental factors.

Here are a few environmental factors that may produce different chemotypes:

  • Climate
  • Growing elevation of plant
  • Growing condition of plant

For example, in Basil Linalool, there is a high linalool count present. Here is a GC/MS from Plant Therapy:

essential oil chemotype of basil linalool

You see that the constituent linalool is at 51.8%. That is the main component of this basil essential oil, and that is why it is listed as Basil Linalool:

Why Essential Oil Chemotypes Matter?

Chemotypes of essential oil are the varieties that come from the same plant but have different chemical compositions. Knowing the chemotype of your oil can help you choose the right essential oil for your purpose.

When it comes to essential oils, different chemotypes will have different therapeutic properties, aromas, and even safety concerns.

How to Determine the Chemotype

Be aware that not all essential oil companies will identify the chemotype of the essential oil on the label. If it is an essential oil that you know has chemotypes, then you can look at the testing done on the oil to see what chemical component has the highest percentage.

Like the example above of the GC/MS test from Plant Therapy, it shows that linalool has the highest percentage. So you know that chemotype is linalool and that your essential oil is rich in the chemical component of linalool.

Essential Oil Chemotype Examples

Doterra® Thyme bottle label does not differentiate what chemotype it is, but when looking at the main chemical components, they list Thymol. So you can conclude that they offer Thymus vulgaris ct. thymol.

Plant Therapy clearly has chemotypes listed on the their bottles like this:

Most Common Essential Oil Chemotypes

When looking at the essential oil chemotypes, the botanical names will be the same but the ct. will highlight the main chemical component the oil is made of.

Remember I mentioned that not all plants produce chemotypes, here are the common ones you will more than likely come across.

Essential Oil

Chemotypes
 Thyme
  • Thymus vulgaris ct. thymol
  • Thymus vulgaris ct. linalool
  • Thymus vulgaris ct. carvacrol
  • Thymus vulgaris ct. geraniol
Rosemary
  • Rosmarinus officinalis ct. camphor
  • Rosmarinus officinalis ct. 1,8-cineole
  • Rosmarinus officinalis ct. verbenone
Sage
  • Salvia officinalis ct. 1,8-cineole
  • Salvia officinalis ct. thujone
Basil
  • Ocimum basilicum ct. linalool
  • Ocimum basilicum ct. carvacrol
  • Ocimum basilicum ct. eugenol

 

While this is not an exhaustive list, it is the most common essential oil chemotypes you will come across for aromatherapy.

Chemotypes of Essential Oils - A Quick Guide by Loving Essential Oils

Final Thoughts on Chemotypes of Essential Oils

Chemotypes are the chemical makeup of an essential oil. Chemotypes of an essential oil can be determined by gas chromatography/mass spectrometry (GC/MS). This process will identify the compounds in an essential oil and the ratios of these compounds. The ratio of these compounds is what determines the chemotype.

Chemotypes are important because they can determine the therapeutic properties of an essential oil. For example, two oils that come from the same plant can have different chemotypes and different effects on the body. One oil may be calming while the other is invigorating.

It is important to know the chemotype of an essential oil before using it for aromatherapy or any other purpose. It's important to choose the right chemotype for your needs, as each one can provide different benefits. When selecting an essential oil, be sure to check the label for information on the specific chemotype. This will help you choose the oil that's right for you.

What is a therapeutic grade essential oil?

Therapeutic grade is simply a marketing term that any company can claim. No government agency or organization “grades” or “certifies” essential oils in the United States.

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Essential Oil Chemotype Examples - A Quick Guide by Loving Essential Oils

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Lavender and Cedarwood Essential Oil Blend - 10 ml Roller Bottle Aromatherapy Oils
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Lavender and cedarwood essential oil blend is an incredibly soothing and calming mix. This blend is often used in aromatherapy to promote relaxation and reduce stress. The sweet, woody aroma of these two oils combined creates a pleasant and calming scent that many people find comforting. This 10ml Lavender and Cedarwood Roller Blend offers an effective and calming aid for sleep problems and anxiety. The lavender essential oil contained in this blend helps to relax the body and mind, while the cedarwood essential oil helps to reduce nervous tension. LAVENDER AND CEDARWOOD ESSENTIAL OIL ROLLER BLEND INGREDIENTS Handcrafted Blend by Aromatherapist Jennifer Lane - Lavender and Cedarwood in a base of fractionated coconut oil. The oil blend comes in a 10 ML Roll On Bottle, made with 100% pure essential oils. Roller bottles are made of cobalt blue glass with stainless steel rollerballs and a black cap. Essential Oil Blend Highlights Volume: 10 milliliters Shelf Life: Should be used in 6-12 months Shipping: Items shipped from California. US shipping only, no international orders. Safety Precautions: Made for ages 12 and up. Essential oil roll-ons come ready-made at a four to five percent dilution in an organic fractionated coconut oil base. Do not use if allergic to any ingredient, test on skin before liberally applying. Do not ingest LAVENDER AND CEDARWOOD ESSENTIAL OIL BLEND BENEFITS Lavender and Cedarwood essential oil blend is a popular combination for aromatherapy and other natural health remedies. Blending lavender and cedarwood provides a powerful aroma that is known to improve sleep quality and reduce stress. Lavender and Cedarwood Benefits Lavender is commonly used for its calming and soothing effects, while cedarwood is known for its grounding and centering properties. Together, these two oils create a powerful blend that can be used to help ease stress and anxiety, while also providing a sense of grounding and focus. This blend can also be beneficial for those experiencing insomnia. This easy to use roller-ball bottle allows for effective topical application of the oil blend. Its calming and grounding aroma make it perfect for aromatherapy and natural healing remedies. This oil blend can also be used to aid skin conditions such as eczema, psoriasis, and acne.  ORGANIC FRACTIONATED COCONUT OIL Fractionated Coconut Oil is a beneficial oil with a variety of uses. It is derived from coconut oil and is odorless, colorless, and has a longer shelf life than traditional coconut oil. It is also always in liquid form. Fractionated Coconut Oil is known for its ability to deeply moisturize the skin and dilute essential oils for safe topical application. NEED A CUSTOM BLEND? Contact me, I can customize this blend to your needs! How to Use Rollerball Blends Simply roll on the oil blend to your wrists, arms, upper chest, back, temples, feet, or neck. You can use to specifically target an area of concern, like applying to neck for tension or belly for upset stomach. For generalized aromatherapy purposes, apply to arms and chest to enjoy topical and aromatic benefits. The best part about this product is it can be used anywhere - at home, before heading out into the world, or taken with you for on the go use! Lavender and Cedarwood Roller Blend Lavender and cedarwood essential oil blend is a versatile and beneficial blend that can be used to reduce stress and anxiety, improve sleep, and promote relaxation. Let this roller blend soothe nervous tension, ease muscle cramps, and support the respiratory system.  Want to DIY? Learn how to make roller bottle blends! *Disclaimer: These statements have not been evaluated by the Food and Drug Administration. The information provided here is not intended to diagnose, treat, cure or prevent disease, nor is it a substitute for medical advice.
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This handcrafted Lavender and Peppermint Essential Oil Blend is a powerful combination of two of the most popular essential oils. This blend is known for its calming and uplifting effect, which can help to relieve stress, tension, and anxiety. It can also help to provide a sense of clarity and focus, and aid in relaxation. LAVENDER AND PEPPERMINT ESSENTIAL OIL ROLLER BLEND INGREDIENTS Handcrafted Blend by Aromatherapist Jennifer Lane - Lavender and Peppermint in a base of fractionated coconut oil. The oil blend comes in a 10 ML Roll On Bottle, made with 100% pure essential oils. Roller bottles are made of cobalt blue glass with stainless steel rollerballs and a black cap. Essential Oil Blend Highlights Volume: 10 milliliters Shelf Life: Should be used in 6-12 months Shipping: Items shipped from California. US shipping only, no international orders. Safety Precautions: Made for ages 12 and up. Essential oil roll-ons come ready-made at a five percent dilution in an organic fractionated coconut oil base. Do not use if allergic to any ingredient, test on skin before liberally applying. Do not ingest. LAVENDER AND PEPPERMINT ESSENTIAL OIL BLEND BENEFITS Lavender and Peppermint Oil Blend is a powerful combination of two of the most popular essential oils. It is known to be calming and uplifting, while also providing a sense of clarity and focus. Additionally, it is known to be an effective natural remedy for colds and flu. Lavender and Peppermint Essential Oil Benefits Lavender and peppermint can help to reduce stress and anxiety, improve mood, and aid in digestion. The lavender oil helps to reduce stress and anxiety, while the peppermint oil helps to uplift mood, improve focus, and boost energy. In addition to its soothing effects, the combination of Lavender and Peppermint can be applied topically to help reduce pain, inflammation, and discomfort. Often used for headaches and backaches as well. ORGANIC FRACTIONATED COCONUT OIL Fractionated Coconut Oil is a beneficial oil with a variety of uses. It is derived from coconut oil and is odorless, colorless, and has a longer shelf life than traditional coconut oil. It is also always in liquid form. Fractionated Coconut Oil is known for its ability to deeply moisturize the skin and dilute essential oils for safe topical application. NEED A CUSTOM BLEND? Contact me, I can customize this blend to your needs! How to Use Rollerball Blends Simply roll on the oil blend to your wrists, arms, upper chest, back, temples, feet, or neck. You can use to specifically target an area of concern, like applying to neck for tension or belly for upset stomach. For generalized aromatherapy purposes, apply to arms and chest to enjoy topical and aromatic benefits. The best part about this product is it can be used anywhere - at home, before heading out into the world, or taken with you for on the go use! Lavender and Peppermint Roller Blend Lavender and peppermint roller blend is a popular combination for aromatherapy and home remedies. The mixture of these two essential oils offers a variety of therapeutic benefits, such as stress relief, pain relief, and relaxation. Want to DIY? Learn how to make roller bottle blends! *Disclaimer: These statements have not been evaluated by the Food and Drug Administration. The information provided here is not intended to diagnose, treat, cure or prevent disease, nor is it a substitute for medical advice.
Ginger and Peppermint Essential Oil Blend - 10 ml Roller Bottle Aromatherapy Oils for Nausea, Upset Stomach, Digestive Support
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This handcrafted Ginger and Peppermint Essential Oil Blend is a combination that can provide a variety of benefits. This blend is often used for aromatherapy, and it can be used to help soothe and calm the mind and body. The blend of ginger and peppermint essential oil is known to help reduce stress, promote relaxation, and increase energy levels. In addition, this blend can be used to help relieve headaches, muscle aches, and soreness. It can also be used to support digestion and reduce nausea. GINGER AND PEPPERMINT ESSENTIAL OIL BLEND INGREDIENTS Handcrafted Blend by Aromatherapist Jennifer Lane - Ginger and Peppermint in a base of fractionated coconut oil. The oil blend comes in a 10 ML Roll On Bottle, made with 100% pure essential oils. Roller bottles are made of cobalt blue glass with stainless steel rollerballs and a black cap. Essential Oil Blend Highlights Volume: 10 milliliters Shelf Life: Should be used in 6-12 months Shipping: Items shipped from California. US shipping only, no international orders. Safety Precautions: Made for ages 12 and up. Essential oil roll-ons come ready-made at a five percent dilution in an organic fractionated coconut oil base. Do not use if allergic to any ingredient, test on skin before liberally applying. Do not ingest. GINGER AND PEPPERMINT ESSENTIAL OIL BLEND BENEFITS Ginger and peppermint essential oil may help to reduce anxiety and depression. The scent of this blend is known to be calming, and it will help to promote better sleep and relaxation. This blend can also be used as a natural remedy for headaches and nausea. Ginger and peppermint essential oils can be used to promote better breathing. The combination helps to open up the airways and provide relief from congestion and allergies. This blend can also help provide relief from asthma and other respiratory conditions. ORGANIC FRACTIONATED COCONUT OIL Fractionated Coconut Oil is a beneficial oil with a variety of uses. It is derived from coconut oil and is odorless, colorless, and has a longer shelf life than traditional coconut oil. It is also always in liquid form. Fractionated Coconut Oil is known for its ability to deeply moisturize the skin and dilute essential oils for safe topical application. NEED A CUSTOM BLEND? Contact me, I can customize this blend to your needs! How to Use Rollerball Blends Simply roll on the oil blend to your wrists, arms, upper chest, back, temples, feet, or neck. You can use to specifically target an area of concern, like applying to neck for tension or belly for upset stomach. For generalized aromatherapy purposes, apply to arms and chest to enjoy topical and aromatic benefits. The best part about this product is it can be used anywhere - at home, before heading out into the world, or taken with you for on the go use! This mixture of ginger and peppermint is a great way to provide a variety of benefits to the mind and body. This blend can be used for aromatherapy or as a natural remedy for various ailments. It can help to reduce stress, promote relaxation, and improve breathing. Want to DIY? Learn how to make roller bottle blends! *Disclaimer: These statements have not been evaluated by the Food and Drug Administration. The information provided here is not intended to diagnose, treat, cure or prevent disease, nor is it a substitute for medical advice.
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Get answers on top essential oil questions for beginners to seasoned pros.

Frequently Asked Questions on Essential Oils

Essential oils are great because not only do they make you feel good physically, but mentally as well. I love having them around since they have so many benefits, like clearing the air of bad odors and improving moods. They can releasing calming scents in your home or office when used in a diffuser!

Essential oils are popular as all-natural, homeopathic remedies for everyday health issues. From headache pain to sleep issues, many people have reported positive results from essential oils. Yet despite their growing popularity, there is still much confusion and many misunderstandings about what they are and how they can be used safely and effectively.

We've compiled our top frequently asked questions (FAQs) in therapeutic essential oil use.

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