When it comes to scent, not all oils are created equal. Fragrance oils and essential oils are often grouped together, but in reality, there’s a big difference. Over time, I’ve become much more intentional about what I use in my home and on my body — and I love essential oils.

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What’s the difference?

Fragrance oils are created in laboratories and designed purely to smell a certain way. They’re often made using synthetic compounds to replicate natural scents or create entirely new ones. While they may smell strong and long-lasting, they don’t offer anything beyond fragrance — and if anything it’s just more toxins in your home.

Essential oils, on the other hand, are extracted directly from plants. Through processes like steam distillation or cold pressing, they capture not just the scent, but the natural properties of the plant itself. This is what gives them their therapeutic potential.

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Why I don’t use fragrance oils

For me, it comes down to this: if I’m bringing something into my home or applying it to my body, I want it to do more than just smell nice. I don’t see the point in using something synthetic purely for fragrance when there are natural alternatives that can actually support wellbeing at the same time.

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The power of essential oils

Once you start using essential oils properly, you realise just how powerful they are. These aren’t just nice-smelling additions — they’re concentrated plant extracts, and a little truly does go a long way.

I’ve been quietly concocting a few Gallipot-style blends for friends and family to try, and the results have been really encouraging. From a Focus Oil for studying — using frankincense for clarity, sweet orange for uplift, and chamomile to take the edge off — to blends aimed at easing discomfort, where I’ve worked with oils like arnica, comfrey, helichrysum and myrrh.

Quality matters – I always use good quality essential oils, and only a few drops are needed to be effective. They’re potent, and they should be treated with respect — it’s worth knowing what you’re doing, as too much can have a negative effect.

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The Gallipot approach

This is very much the ethos behind The Gallipot. It’s about going back to what works, using natural ingredients with purpose, and understanding what you’re using rather than just following trends.

Essential oils sit right at the heart of that. They’re not just about fragrance — they’re about function, balance, and supporting the body in a more considered way.

I’m currently working on a Debloat & Define Stomach Elixir, which I’ll be testing properly before sharing — but it’s another example of how these traditional remedies can be adapted for modern life.

Over the last couple of months, as I’ve built up my home collection, I’ve found myself naturally turning to my own little apothecary. Whether it’s been putting together a chest oil for one of the kids, a period pain blend for myself, or an achy leg tonic for my sister-in-law, having these ingredients to hand means I feel prepared for whatever comes up. It’s a simple kind of reassurance — knowing you’ve got something practical you can reach for – there’s an essential oil for everything 🌿