Aromatherapy Vocabulary Quiz
12 multiple-choice questions on aromatherapy vocabulary: essential oil, diffusion, carrier oil, dilution, terpene, synergy, blending, inhalation, patch test, contraindication, volatile and therapeutic. B1–C1 level.
This quiz focuses on how the target vocabulary for Aromatherapy is actually used in context at B1–C1 level, rather than testing bare definitions. Correct answers you will need to identify include terms such as essential oil, diffusion, carrier, dilution and terpenes, each embedded in a full example sentence so you have to judge meaning from context, not just recognise an isolated word.
Working through all 12 questions and checking the explanations in the FAQ below is a quick way to spot any terms you are still unsure of. Revisiting the quiz again after a day or two, rather than only once, is one of the most reliable ways to move new vocabulary from passive recognition into words you can use confidently yourself in speaking and writing.
Aromatherapy Vocabulary — FAQ
What is an essential oil and how is it made?
An essential oil is a concentrated, volatile liquid that captures the natural aromatic compounds of a plant. Most essential oils are produced through steam distillation, where steam passes through plant material and carries the volatile compounds into a condenser. Cold pressing is used for citrus oils. The resulting liquid is highly concentrated and must be diluted before skin contact.
Why do you need to dilute essential oils before applying them to skin?
Essential oils are highly concentrated and can cause skin irritation, sensitisation, or chemical burns if applied undiluted. A carrier oil — such as sweet almond or jojoba — disperses the essential oil across a larger surface area, reducing concentration to a safe level (typically 1–3%) while allowing skin absorption and extending the aromatic effect.
What is synergy in aromatherapy?
Synergy occurs when two or more essential oils are blended and their combined therapeutic effect is greater than the effect of each oil used individually. For example, lavender and tea tree together may provide stronger antimicrobial and calming benefits than either oil alone. Aromatherapists use synergy intentionally when creating blends for specific purposes.
What are terpenes and why are they important?
Terpenes are the primary aromatic and bioactive compounds found in essential oils. They are organic molecules produced by plants and give each oil its characteristic scent and therapeutic properties. For example, linalool (found in lavender) has calming effects, while limonene (in citrus oils) is uplifting. Understanding terpenes helps aromatherapists predict and explain the effects of specific oils.
What is a contraindication in aromatherapy?
A contraindication is a condition or situation in which using a particular essential oil may be harmful or inadvisable. For example, clary sage is contraindicated during pregnancy because it can stimulate uterine contractions; eucalyptus is contraindicated for young children; photosensitising oils like bergamot should not be applied before sun exposure. Professional aromatherapists always check for contraindications before recommending treatments.
How does diffusion work and what types of diffusers are used?
Diffusion disperses essential oil molecules into the air for inhalation. Ultrasonic diffusers use water and vibration to create a fine mist; nebulising diffusers break oil into micro-particles without heat; heat diffusers use warmth to evaporate oil but may alter its chemical composition. Ultrasonic and nebulising diffusers are generally preferred for preserving therapeutic properties.
Why is a patch test important before using a new essential oil blend?
A patch test identifies potential allergic reactions or skin sensitivities before full application. Even diluted essential oils can cause contact dermatitis in sensitive individuals. By applying a small amount to the inner wrist or behind the ear and waiting 24 hours, any reaction can be observed safely. Skipping this step risks widespread skin irritation or a systemic allergic response.
What does it mean for an essential oil to be volatile?
Volatility means that the oil evaporates rapidly at room temperature, releasing aromatic molecules into the surrounding air. This is the fundamental property that makes aromatherapy work: the molecules enter the respiratory tract and interact with olfactory receptors in the nose, sending signals to the brain's limbic system, which regulates mood, emotion, and memory.
What is a carrier oil and which ones are most commonly used?
A carrier oil is a vegetable, nut, or seed oil used to dilute essential oils before skin application. Commonly used carrier oils include sweet almond oil (light and good for most skin types), jojoba oil (technically a wax, very stable), coconut oil (moisturising), rosehip oil (rich in vitamins), and grapeseed oil (lightweight and odourless). The choice depends on skin type and intended use.
What aromatherapy vocabulary should ESL learners know?
ESL learners studying wellness or complementary health should prioritise: essential oil, carrier oil, dilution, diffusion, inhalation, blending, synergy, terpene, volatile, contraindication, patch test, and therapeutic. These core terms appear in product labels, health literature, professional training courses, and client consultations, making them essential for both professional and general contexts.