Essential oils are called so because they were originally thought to represent the very essence of the odor and flavor of the plant from which they are derived. The term "essential" in essential oils refers to the essence or characteristic fragrance of the plant that is captured in the concentrated hydrophobic liquid, which contains volatile chemical compounds extracted from plants.
In summary, essential oils derive their name from capturing the essential fragrance or essence of the plant from which they are extracted. They are highly concentrated extracts that retain the characteristic aroma and properties of the plant material, making them valuable in a wide range of industries and applications.