Did you know -- Sesquiterpenols?

Like monoterpenols, sesquiterpenols are alcohols and have the -ol- suffix.  They have a backbone of 15 carbon atoms (instead of 10) and a hydroxyl group (an oxygen-hydrogen pair) attached to the molecule.  This has an effect on their therapeutic properties, size, and longevity.

Because they are alcohols, sesquiterpenes tend to be antibacterial, immune stimulants, cooling, antispasmodic, and sedative.  Oils high in sesquiterpenes are good in deodorants, lotions, blends for skin irritations, and diffuser blends for sleep or to ease breathing.

The 15 carbon backbone makes the molecules larger and heavier.  These larger molecules deepen the aroma to middle-base and base notes which last longer (as opposed to evaporating quickly).  These deeper notes offer grounding and calming energetics to a blend.  The larger molecules also absorb more slowly, which means they have a longer time to impart their therapeutic properties to the skin, and they give a longer shelf life to essential oils rich in these chemicals - about 6 - 8 years (or longer).

While sesquiterpenes are found in many essential oils, only a few oils are sesquiterpenol-rich.  They include Cedarwood, Myrrh, Patchouli, Sandalwood, and Vetiver.