Ethers do not occur in essential oils as simply ethers. Many ethers in essential oils are phenolic, derived from the hydroxyl group of the phenol. This occurs when hydrogen from the hydroxyl group breaks off and is replaced with a short hydrocarbon chain. Because of the stability of the benzene ring and the methyl group (-CH3), they are considered effective in reducing pain and muscle spasms. Phenolic ethers are notarized as being strong in odor and strong in action.
