What You Need To Know About Helichrysum Essential Oil
Helichrysum oil is made from the delicate blossoms of the Helichrysum flower. In particular, this oil is best known for its rich, sweet, fruity scent. Also, it’s packed with anti-inflammatory and antioxidant properties. Not only does it have a great fragrance, but it has some great wellness benefits too.
After you experience the delight of this oil, you will most certainly want to add it to your collection.
History
The Helichrysum flower is native to the Meditteranean region. The Helichrysum plant is thought to have been widely used for centuries across the region. Throughout the Mediterranean, it’s been said that the medicinal properties of the Helichrysum plant have been used for thousands of years by many different cultures stretching from Greece all the way to Spain.
While still being used today, Helichrysum oil has grown in popularity and can be purchased worldwide.
Traditionally, Helichrysum essential oil is said to be useful for treating a wide variety of health conditions.
They include :
Allergies
Acid reflux/Heartburn
Candida
Inflammation of the muscles and joints
Acne
Stomachaches
Bloating
Gallbladder disorders
Liver disease
Although Helichrysum has been used through the centuries, more extensive clinical studies are necessary to prove (or disprove) its effectiveness in many areas.
Helichrysum Essential Oil Studies
What research has proven is very promising. Research from the National Institute of Health claims that several scientific studies have shown that Helichrysum does have anti-inflammatory agents.
Helichrysum also demonstrated some anti-fungal actions against Candida (which is a type of yeast that can cause infection) as well as antibacterial properties (Staphylococcus aureus). Therefore, research is being done on this beautiful little flower, and the future prospects of this plant’s health benefits are promising.
With more clinical studies and research, perhaps this oil will indeed prove itself down the road. While the information regarding this oil is encouraging, it’s important to use caution with any potent ingredient (natural or otherwise). As always, you should never ingest any kind of essential oil without first consulting your physician.
When using this oil topically, there are many fantastic results.
When used correctly, quality Helichrysum oil is a safe alternative that may help you in a number of exciting ways. Try out these simple DIY recipes below to get some amazing results.
Sunburn Soother Balm
Summertime is a great time to go outside and enjoy yourself while soaking up the sun. Actually, according to a recent study, you should definitely make sure you soak up some sun. When venturing out into the hot summer sun, there’s a dilemma that we all have to deal with, and that is sunburn.
Whether you’ve been at the pool or are just returning from that yearly beach vacation, you must find some way to soothe that blazing sunburn. One really helpful solution is this awesome recipe that uses Helichrysum oil. Since this oil can promote healing and can help skin recover quickly, it’s the perfect remedy for those poor, scorched shoulders.
Ingredients:
10 drops of Helichrysum essential oil
5 drops of lavender essential oil
5 drops of frankincense essential oil
3/4 cup coconut oil
2 tablespoons shea butter
1 medium size glass jar
Directions For Use:
In a small pot or saucepan, add about 2-3 inches of warm water. Place on stove top and turn on medium-low heat. While your water is heating, combine all your ingredients in your jar. After you’ve combined the ingredients, place your jar in the hot water. Once the contents begin to melt, mix well.
After it’s well mixed, remove from heat and allow to cool. After the balm is cooled, apply to the affected area.
Renewing Helichrysum Facial Cleanser
If you’re dealing with facial acne, it can make you feel self-conscious or cause you to feel bad about the way you look. You could try those “brand-named” facial cleanser products you see on TV, but you’re hesitant because of their nasty and unhealthy chemicals.
It can be frustrating figuring out what to do and what products are the best for you. Why not put your frustration to ease with this natural and healthy facial cleanser? It’s very simple and easy to make and has promising results.
Ingredients:
15 drops of Helichrysum essential oil
5 drops of Grapefruit essential oil
3 tablespoons of raw honey
1 tablespoon of coconut oil
1 tablespoon raw apple cider vinegar (my favorite brand is ‘Brag Vinegar’ because it’s raw and organic)
1 small jar
In a medium-sized bowl, combine all the ingredients. If you’re having trouble mixing it evenly, you can use a hand blender. After the mixture is well combined, pour the mixture into your small jar. Keep facial cleanser in a dry, cool place to improve shelf life.
Directions For Use:
Now that you’ve made your facial cleanser, it’s time to try it out.
Begin with using a quarter-sized amount. Apply the mixture directly to your face, then begin to massage it into your skin. Using slow circular motions, massage the oil deep into your pores, making sure all makeup, dead skin cells, and dirt are dissolved in the oil. After you’re done massaging, and your skin is well saturated, place a washcloth in hot (not scalding) water.
Once your washcloth has absorbed the hot water, place the washcloth on your face and allow the heat from the washcloth to open your pores. It’s important to use hot water because cold water will not open your pores. Just be sure not to use scalding water; you don’t want to burn your face.
After you remove the washcloth from your face, rinse the washcloth in the hot water and repeat. Now that your pores are opened, and the dirt, makeup, and dead skin cells have been removed, give your face a final rinse. Once you’re all finished, pat dry.
After washing, you should apply a gentle moisturizer. Read more about a DIY aloe vera moisturizer here.
Anti-Aging Facial Serum
Let’s face it: we’re all going to get wrinkly skin at some point. The question is not if we’ll eventually get wrinkles but when. If you pamper your face and treat it with the uttermost care, you can prevent those wrinkles from showing up prematurely. One simple way to keep those wrinkles away is to try this easy DIY anti-aging facial serum.
Ingredients:
10 drops of Helichrysum essential oil
5 drops of Carrot Seed essential oil
1-2 drops of Rose essential oil
2-3 oz of rosehip carrier oil (or your favorite carrier oil)
Directions For Use:
Combine all the oils in an amber dropper. Shake the bottle gently to mix the ingredients. Once your oil solution is well mixed, dab a few drops on your finger and gently massage onto your face. Be sure to give special attention to areas more prone to wrinkles.
Conclusion
When you use Helichrysum oil for the first time, you will immediately want to add it to your oil collection. Using Helichrysum oil is not only good for you, but it’s yet another natural ingredient that you can use in any number of recipes for optimal skin health. Once you try this fragrant, beneficial, and all-around splendid oil, you will not be disappointed!
Helichrysum Essential Oil FAQs
How is helichrysum essential oil made?
Helichrysum oil is steam distilled from the flowers of the helichrysum plant, native to the Mediterranean.
What is helichrysum oil commonly used for?
It’s popularly used for skin care, wound healing, stress reduction, and as a massage oil.
What does helichrysum oil smell like?
It has a strong, earthy, herbal aroma with honey-like, woody, and spicy undertones. The scent is rich and soothing.
How do you use helichrysum essential oil?
Apply diluted on the skin, diffuse aromatically, or inhale directly for emotional and physical healing benefits.
Does helichrysum oil help fade scars?
Yes, it regenerates skin cells and improves collagen production to reduce the appearance of scars, according to this study.
What skin types can use helichrysum oil?
It’s suitable for all skin types, even sensitive skin. Do a patch test before wider use.
Is helichrysum better than tea tree for acne?
It works more gently with fewer side effects and is great for breakouts, inflammation, and acne scars. Depending on your skin type, either may be a good option.
For starters, what is Ylang Ylang oil, and how on earth do you pronounce it? Ylang ylang (ee-lang ee-lang) oil is derived from flowers that come from the ylang ylang tree. This delicate blossom is both beautiful and fragrant, giving off an irresistibly unique scent.
The Ylang Ylang tree is native to the wild jungles of Indonesia and the Philippines. Known for its enticing floral fragrance, the tree is also called the fragrant cananga or perfume tree. I don’t know about you, but I’d love to have a “perfume tree” growing in my backyard.
How Is the Oil Made?
This fragrant essential oil comes from the ylang ylang blossom. Immediately after harvesting, the flower will undergo a three-stage distillation process required to extract the essential oil from the plant.
Due to how ylang ylang is distilled, the oil from each distillation has varying properties. That being said, there are no set standards for how long each distillation is, nor are there any universal standards for how to label each “grade” of oil. Therefore, if you were to purchase ylang ylang essential oil, it could be a blend of all three distillations or one specific distillation.
In the first stage of distillation, the oil is at its finest.
This high-quality “first stage” oil is known as “Ylang Ylang Extra” by some essential oil companies (source).
The poorer quality oil is taken last and is referred to as Ylang Ylang III.
It’s helpful to know which distillation you’re getting before purchasing. So, be on the lookout for the common (but unregulated) “grades” of this oil: Ylang Ylang 1, Ylang Ylang 2, Ylang Ylang 3, and Ylang Ylang Complete (a blend of all three).
To learn more about the lack of standardization in the essential oil industry, read this:
There are multiple amazing things you can do with this oil. First, not only does it smell fantastic and make for a good air freshener, but it is also said to be great for your mental health due to its ability to melt away tension and stress, even anxiety.
While not conclusive, there is a long list of other possible physical benefits as well. Since evidence on these other benefits is inconclusive, I’ll leave you to research them for yourself and come to your own conclusions.
Other Potential Benefits of Ylang Ylang Essential Oil and available studies:
Hornet and Yellow-jacket repellent (Hymenoptera: Vespidae), (source)
Other studies have been performed with ylang ylang oil beyond the ones we mentioned above. If you’re really into researching these kinds of things and would enjoy educating yourself (like we do) on the subject, it’s important to find the actual published studies.
Ylang Ylang For Your Skin
Ylang-ylang oil is also known to have skin-improving abilities, thus giving your skin a healthy glow and a nice complexion. You can also try applying it to smooth away wrinkles and prevent aging. Given its natural antibacterial properties (source), it may also prevent unwanted breakouts.
This oil is great for all skin types because it will not only improve skin elasticity but also help balance the naturally occurring oil that your skin already produces.
However, as with most, if not all, essential oils, we do not recommend that you apply pure ylang ylang oil directly onto the skin. Instead, mix it with a carrier oil like fractionated coconut oil to prevent skin irritation.
Ylang Ylang For Your Hair
Everyone wants healthier-looking hair, right? Absolutely! This oil is great if you want to give your hair that healthy glow you’ve been wanting to get for so long. As I mentioned, ylang ylang can help balance the oil your skin naturally produces. That means it’s perfectly suited for use in a scalp massage blend.
Try mixing 1-2 drops of ylang ylang oil with some virgin coconut oil for a relaxing, hair-rejuvenating scalp massage.
Furthermore, there have even been a few small clinical studies in regard to ylang ylang oil’s toxic effect on lice eggs! There hasn’t been a lot of extensive research on it, so it may not be a “miracle oil” in regard to uses pertaining to lice treatment. But, things do appear to be headed in the right direction (source).
The oil works great as a natural hair conditioner, too. If you mix it with coconut oil, it will surround each strand of hair with moisturization that will give your hair a fabulous shine.
Ylang Ylang Natural Homemade Conditioner Recipe
Mix 1-2 drops of ylang ylang oil in a ¼ cup of fractionated coconut oil (similar to the recipe above) or your favorite conditioner.
Massage the mixture from your roots all the way to the tips and ends of your hair.
Use a comb for maximum moisturization. When rinsing, you may want to add a tiny bit of natural shampoo just so your hair won’t feel too greasy.
Using Ylang ylang oil as a conditioner will give your hair a healthy, irresistible shine.
PMS Relief
Given its hormone-balancing and calming properties, ylang ylang is extremely helpful if you are dealing with PMS. The calming aroma can really help with PMS symptoms, especially if you are experiencing hormonal mood swings. If you have an oil diffuser, try this simple PMS hormone balance blend.
1 drop of Ylang Ylang oil
1 drop of Lavender oil
2 drops of Clary Sage oil
1 drop of Geranium oil
Some recipes exclude lavender oil, but it adds a unique freshness to the mix. Try this diffuser recipe with and without lavender to see which you prefer the best.
Muscle relief
Another popular use of ylang ylang oil is for massage. Not only will the oil help you relax emotionally, but it will calm and soothe your muscles as well.
Ylang Ylang Oil Massage Blend Recipe
Mix 2 drops of Ylang Ylang oil to one ¼ cup of melted virgin coconut oil. Allow to cool and harden.
For additional fragrance variation, add a few drops of lavender, jasmine, sandalwood, or other essential oils.
If you want more of a liquid massage solution, just use jojoba oil or fractionated coconut oil.
Remember, it’s not advised to apply pure essential oil directly onto the skin because all essential oils are different. That means that some are more potent than others. If you put pure, concentrated essential oil on your skin, it could potentially lead to skin irritation, rashes, and even burns.
Ylang Ylang: Peace and Tranquility
Given its calming, relaxing effects, many people claim that Ylang Ylang oil will help you find peace and tranquility within. So again, whether you want to smell an exotic floral scent or just want to relax, ylang ylang oil is a great choice. Life can be tense, so sometimes it’s also nice to just slow down and treat yourself to a nice, long, fragrant bath.
Ylang Ylang Bath Oil Recipe
Mix 8-10 drops of ylang ylang oil, 8-10 drops of grapefruit oil, and 2 cups of Epsom salts into a full bath.
Light some candles, turn on some relaxing music, and let all your worries drift away.
Always be sure to blend the oil with a carrier oil before putting it directly onto your skin. Like most essential oils, pure ylang ylang oil is very concentrated. So, mixing it with another carrier oil will reduce any chance of skin irritation, even if you have sensitive skin. As long as you’re diluting your oils, there’s no need for concern here.
It is of great importance to us here at Enticingly Simple that you understand the wonderful benefits of ylang ylang essential oil. Everything from wellness to beauty, this essential oil is an awesome choice to add to your collection. Ask any aromatherapist, and they’ll probably tell you that they could never go without it.
Thanks for reading. I hope you learned a lot, and we’d love to hear from you about your experiences with this enticing aroma. If you have any comments or questions, please do send them our way. Indeed, you will not want to be without this amazingly floral-scented oil!
Ylang Ylang Essential Oil FAQs
What is Ylang Ylang essential oil used for?
Ylang Ylang oil is commonly used for its pleasant floral fragrance in perfumes and aromatherapy, as well as in hair and skin care products.
Can Ylang Ylang essential oil help with relaxation?
Yes, it’s often used in aromatherapy for relaxation and to reduce feelings of stress.
Is Ylang Ylang essential oil good for skin care?
It’s popular in skin care for its moisturizing properties and is sometimes included in products aimed at improving skin health.
Can Ylang Ylang essential oil be used for hair?
Ylang Ylang oil can be found in hair care formulas to help strengthen and improve the appearance of hair.
How do you apply Ylang Ylang essential oil?
It can be applied topically when diluted with a carrier oil, used in a diffuser for aromatherapy, or added to baths and skin care products.
Are there any precautions when using Ylang Ylang essential oil?
It should be used in moderation and always diluted before applying to the skin to avoid irritation. It’s also important to do a patch test first to check for any allergic reactions.
Which carrier oils can be used with Ylang Ylang essential oil?
Jojoba, coconut, and almond oils are great carrier oils that blend well with Ylang Ylang for topical application.
What essential oils pair well with Ylang Ylang?
Lavender, bergamot, and rose oils complement Ylang Ylang’s floral scent and can be blended for aromatherapy uses.
How much Ylang Ylang essential oil should be used in a diffuser?
Typically, 3-5 drops per 100ml of water is sufficient, but always follow your specific diffuser’s guidelines.
Can Ylang Ylang essential oil be added to bath water?
Yes, a few drops can be mixed with a dispersing agent like Epsom salt or a carrier oil before adding to bath water to enhance a relaxing bath experience.
Healing Naturally: Lavender Oil for Scars, Sunburn, and Burns
This delicate little flower, with its refreshingly aromatic scent, has a lot more to offer than a pleasant olfactory experience. Lavender has been widely used in ancient civilizations and cultural contexts for perfumery as well as other medicinal uses.
With over 2,500 years of use, lavender remains one of the most versatile and useful of all essential oils.
Lavender Oil for Scars
Scarring is a common problem for us all. I’m not going to suggest that using lavender oil on your scars will instantly remove them because, as we all know, results can be different from person to person. It’s suggested that lavender oil may actually help to fade scars by rejuvenating your skin cells.
One great thing about lavender oil is that it’s generally believed to be quite gentle, even if applied directly. That being said, I’d still recommend mixing it with coconut oil (or another carrier oil), especially if you have sensitive skin. Generally, it’s not best practice to apply essential oils directly to the skin due to their potency.
There have also been studies done that link photosensitivity to lavender use on the skin, so it’s not recommended for use before going into the sun and should be used sparingly.
Simple Lavender Scar Recipe:
What You Need:
15 Drops of Lavender Essential Oil
1/4 Cup Unrefined Virgin Coconut Oil
Small Saucepan
Small 2oz Glass Jar
Instructions:
Heat water on the stovetop in your saucepan.
Remove the saucepan from the heat and place the small jar containing coconut oil in the water. Do not allow water to get into the jar.
Allow the coconut oil in the glass jar to melt to a liquefied state
Once the coconut oil has melted, mix in 15 drops of Lavender essential oil
Allow the mixture to cool and harden. Cover with a lid.
Note: The reason why I suggest placing the glass jar of coconut oil in hot water instead of melting the oil in the pan directly is so that you won’t get any contaminants from your pan into the oil mixture. This will also allow the oil to melt more gently since it won’t be exposed to any extreme temperatures.
The above recipe will only take you a few minutes to make, and it will smell absolutely amazing. Not only that, but you can also double the recipe if you find that you use it up quickly, which is very easy to do. This mixture may not remove your scars completely, but if you don’t notice drastic improvement, this mixture is quite nourishing and smells wonderful.
Another great thing about this recipe is that coconut oil also has healing properties for healthy skin and is said to help with stretch marks as well. So, feel free to try this on your scars daily and see if they begin to fade. Be sure to let us know if it worked for you!
Lavender Oil for Sunburn
Spending time at the beach is wonderful until you realize you forgot to protect your skin. It’s never a good feeling when you realize your skin got damaged by the sun, especially once the pain begins to set in. There’s a multitude of natural remedies for sunburn, but some may prefer the smell of lavender over ingredients in other mixtures.
Simple Sunburn Spray/Gel Recipe
What You Need:
1/2 Cup Aloe Vera Gel or Pure Aloe Juice
12 Drops of Lavender Essential Oil
Spray Bottle (Optional)
Just mix the above ingredients and apply them to your burns. As you probably already realized, you can use the aloe juice in order to make a spray-on mixture, or you can make a gelled version using aloe gel. Either way, you will enjoy amazing benefits with either of these mixtures.
The powerful healing benefits of aloe, along with the relaxation benefits of lavender, are the perfect combination for sunburn.
Application Suggestions:
I’d suggest using the spray for immediate sunburn relief since it won’t require you to rub anything onto your already sensitive skin. I don’t know about you, but I don’t like rubbing anything on my skin when I have sunburn unless it’s an absolute necessity!
The gel is very soothing since it’s heavier in consistency. Therefore, I’d suggest applying the gel right before going to bed because the lavender scent will encourage tranquility and help you drift into sleep, feeling much more relaxed. Also, by the time you’re ready for bed, your sunburn will be a bit less “touchy”.
While sunburn usually isn’t very serious, WebMD suggests you should seek medical assistance if you experience any of the symptoms below:
A sunburn that forms blisters, covers a large area, or is very painful
Facial swelling
Fever and chills
Upset stomach
Headache, confusion, or faintness
Signs of dehydration
Lavender Oil for Burns
Well, we’ve already gone through some great uses for this fragrant oil, and now we’ll take a look at using it for the occasional burn as well. It’s widely known that lavender does have antimicrobial properties, and there are many that take advantage of its healing benefits for burns specifically.
Also, in my research, I came across an article that mentioned how over 100 studies have been conducted establishing lavender’s antimicrobial properties.
A Story
Those of you more familiar with essential oil history may know the story of René-Maurice Gattefossé and how he used “lavender essence” after a laboratory explosion. Now, if you are familiar with this story, you should know that it’s often been quite exaggerated, especially on the internet. So, read his own account of the event inhis own words below.
He writes:
“The external application of small quantities of essences rapidly stops the spread of gangrenous sores. In my personal experience, after a laboratory explosion covered me with burning substances, which I extinguished by rolling on a grassy lawn, both my hands were covered with a rapidly developing gas gangrene. Just one rinse with lavender essence stopped “the gasification of the tissue.” This treatment was followed by profuse sweating, and healing began the next day (July 1910).” – Gattefossé R-M, Tisserand RB (ed.) 1993 Gattefossé’s aromatherapy: the first book on aromatherapy. CW Daniel, Saffron Walden, p 87
While most of us probably wouldn’t ever end up in a lab explosion (I hope), the story is quite intriguing.
Lavender is used by many people for burns because it has a calming quality to the skin.
However, I would not recommend using lavender oil to treat second or third-degree burns. In those cases, you’ll want to seek medical assistance immediately. However, for less serious and simple burns, lavender oil can be very useful.
For simple burns, use the aloe vera gel or spray recipe we mentioned above. For smaller qualities, you can just halve the recipe for the same results.
As an alternative to the aloe recipe, you can mix your lavender essential oil with honey instead (manuka is best). For a small batch of ointment for spot treatments on your burns, I’d recommend eight drops of lavender oil for every two tablespoons of honey. For a larger batch of this mixture, just double it accordingly.
Before you put anything on your burn, run cold water over it for 10 minutes to prevent the heat from penetrating deeper into the skin tissue.
Essential oils, like lavender oil, are natural and potent tools for your skincare regimen. Remember to make informed decisions and do your research when it comes to choosing and using these products. Enjoy the wonderful benefits of lavender oil on your journey toward a more natural lifestyle.
FAQs about using Lavender Oil for Scars, Sunburn, and Burns
Natural lifestyle enthusiasts often turn to essential oils for their many various healing benefits. In this section, we’ll be answering some frequently asked questions about using lavender oil for these conditions.
As time goes on, we’ll likely add other commonly asked questions to this list.
1.) Is lavender oil effective for treating scars?
Yes, lavender oil is effective for treating scars. It has regenerative properties that aid in skin repair and helps reduce the appearance of scar tissue. However, for deep scars, it’s recommended to consult with a dermatologist or healthcare professional.
2.) Can I apply lavender oil directly to a sunburn?
Yes, you can apply diluted lavender oil directly to a sunburn. Lavender oil has natural anti-inflammatory and cooling properties, making it beneficial for soothing sunburned skin. However, avoid applying essential oils to severely burned or blistered skin as it might worsen the condition. Any carrier oil agreeable to your skin type will work fine for the dilution.
3.) How should I apply lavender oil to burns?
Lavender oil should be diluted with a carrier oil like coconut or almond before being applied to a burn. This helps lessen the potency of the oil while still providing its healing properties. Apply it gently to the affected area using a cotton swab, avoiding any broken skin or open wounds.
4.) What precautions should I take when using lavender oil for these conditions?
Always do a patch test first to check for any allergic reaction. Dilute the lavender oil with a carrier oil before use, especially on sensitive areas. Avoid contact with eyes and mucous membranes. Consult with a professional if you’re pregnant, breastfeeding, or have a serious health condition before beginning any new treatment.
This question is commonly asked by people just getting into oils, as well as those who happen to be a bit more experienced in the field. Whether you’re brand new to essential oils or have been using them for quite some time, we can all agree that there’s an abundance of information related to the topic.
Furthermore, there’s a lot of great information, as well as a lot of not-so-great information all over the place.
Therefore, when you’re weighing and researching where you should purchase essential oils or which brands are the higher quality brands vs. the lower quality brands, accurate and objective research will save you quite a bit of time.
With all the amazing health benefits of oils, as well as their common use in aromatherapy, it’s great that you’re asking yourself this question because you realize quality matters.
Are You New to Buying Essential Oils?
Over the past decade and onwards, the popularity of essential oils has been intensifying exponentially and has cooled down a bit in recent years. After marketing experts realized just how much money could be made, essential oil companies started popping up all over the place.
While more competition in the essential oil industry is probably a good thing, it can make your decisions more difficult when it comes to purchasing the “right” brand of oils.
As in any industry, especially the health and beauty industry, more competition means more manipulative marketing strategies, endless purchasing options, confusion among potential buyers, and varying product quality.
Not only do we see those differences, but we also tend to see a wide and varying range of prices from one brand to another.
You’ve made the right decision in researching how to use essential oils, so don’t let all the confusion surrounding the market as a whole cause you to become a victim of “analysis paralysis.”
Don’t become a victim of analysis paralysis. We’re here to help you navigate the waters.
With all of these endless variables in the essential oil industry, you just want to know which essential oil is the best option for you to purchase at a reasonable price.
By the end of this guide, you will be prepared to know which brands of oils are “top-notch”. I recommend that you start your oil collection with high-quality oils that you won’t feel disappointed you bought down the road.
In the oil industry, you can get good quality for a good price, period. I like to think of it the same way I would if I were buying my child their very first instrument: It’s best to start with quality.
So, The journey to a healthier and more relaxed you don’t need to be overly complicated!
Are You a More Seasoned Buyer?
Do you remember those blissful days when you first got into oils? Do you remember that very first diffuser you ever purchased? How about the excitement and anticipation you experienced the moment you smelled the aromatic scents of your oils for the first time?
Those days were lovely, weren’t they? Even though essential oils have been on the market for many years now, many of us still enjoy them and use them in our laundry, in skincare routines, and much more.
As you well know, the more you learn about oils and their amazing uses concerning your lifestyle, the more exciting they are to use. That being said, you’ve probably heard all kinds of “buzz” about MLM oil companies (we’ll get there later), conflicting results about certifications, and differing opinions about the “good” brands.
Whatever the case, you know just how important the benefits of essential oils are for your health because you’ve experienced those benefits firsthand.
So, how have you been accessing which oils you should buy over the years?
4 Common Misconceptions Among Essential Oil Users
There are a lot of misconceptions among those who regularly use and purchase essential oils. While some of them may happen to be true from time to time, remember what you learned in science class: Correlation doesn’t equal causation.
#1 – “Higher priced oils are better quality.”
FALSE
As with almost anything else, just because the price of any particular essential oil may be higher than others does not mean that the quality is superior in any way. Higher-priced oils may or may not be better than their competitors. So, price alone cannot be relied on as a way to verify quality.
In some cases, more expensive oils may actually be of inferior quality without their customers ever knowing that they’re getting less than they’re paying for.
As you shop for various scents and kinds of oils for your own personal use, do not assume that higher-priced oils equal higher quality.
Along these same lines, it goes without mentioning that if you see particular brands consistently priced far below other brands, expect quality to be lacking. The idea here is that you need to do your due diligence when you consider purchasing oils from any company. Do some research and find out about how they define their quality-related claims.
#2 – “As Long as my oil is “Therapeutic Grade” or “Food Grade” it’s of superior quality.”
FALSE
Therapeutic Grade
There’s actually no such certification as “therapeutic grade,” and there’s also no reputable governing body that has implemented any kind of certification process whatsoever.
This “quality seal” is purely a deceptive marketing ploy that holds no significance in regard to the quality of the essential oil in question.
Any company that does claim to be therapeutic grade may be referring to their own internal quality guidelines and assessments, but bear in mind that these claims by name are not regulated or verified by any governing body.
“Therapeutic grade” may also refer to general specification guidelines set forth by AFNOR (Association Francaise de Normalization). The key here is that AFNOR doesn’t regulate any company making this claim; they just set forth specifications for companies to follow as a guide.
Before you jump to buy that “therapeutic grade” essential oil, there are other things you should consider as well, which we’ll address later. The Phrase “therapeutic grade” is absolutely not any sort of “silver bullet” when it comes to the quality of your essential oil buying choices because it can mean whatever the seller wants it to mean.
It’s really about how each company, in particular, defines their use of the phrase and whether or not you’ll trust their adherence to those claims.
You may also see other grading systems like “A”, “B”, or “C”, “C” being the worst. Those designations also don’t have any concrete significance and aren’t regulated for quality either.
When it comes to essential oils, the quality of any given oil is also not merely based upon certain lab testing methods (MS/GC specifically) that some companies perform. Moreover, quality is determined by cultivation processes, harvesting, distillation, extraction, packaging, and other factors. That being said, companies that provide you with the MS/GC reports are taking an extra step to back up their quality claims, and that’s a plus.
All of this being true, that doesn’t mean that every single company using the phrase “therapeutic grade” is intentionally trying to deceive you. I would, however, like to see more transparency in this area in general.
Food Grade
The term “Food Grade“ basically means that the oil is “generally recognized as safe” for their intended food additive use (in small quantities).
There are no regulated quality standards, only guidelines. Now, interpreting what exactly this means when it comes to choosing one particular brand over another is a different story. Remember, there is no grading or quality system in the essential oil industry. Thus, in the case of “food grade”, that simply means the oil has been redistilled to make it more suitable and “safe for human consumption”.
For example, peppermint oil with a “Food Grade” designation may have a sweeter candy taste than wholly distilled peppermint essential oil because the redistilled “Food Grade” oil has been distilled again to separate out more specific qualities preferable for food additive use.
Therefore, food-grade oils are actually less pure than essential oils that do not have this designation because they’ve been redistilled and even blended or diluted. For example, “100% Pure Food Grade” may simply mean that 5% of the blend is redistilled essential oil, whilst the other 95% is regular everyday vegetable oil. It gets a lot more complicated than that, but this is a simple way to comprehend it.
Some companies and sales consultants may casually recommend that oils be consumed for all manner of uses.
Not only are those claims not regulated, but it’s downright irresponsible for anyone untrained to encourage someone to ingest essential oils, especially when that person has just been introduced to them.
While some may ingest specific essential oils for various reasons, seek professional advice from a healthcare provider before doing the same.
There can be serious health risks from ingesting oils incorrectly or irresponsibly. Again, please seek advice from a trained and certified expert in the field before ingesting any kind of essential oil in its pure form.
#3 – “100% all-natural essential oils are the best.”
FALSE
I have an assignment for you. Whenever you’re watching TV, going grocery shopping, or gathering new coupons for yourself, be on the lookout for this deceptive “all natural” phrase. Oftentimes, when it comes to purchasing groceries, people tend to equate “all-natural” with organic, healthy, or high-quality.
In the food industry, all-natural doesn’t really mean anything special; it’s just another marketing ploy. Have you ever read an orange juice, butter, or egg label that says “all-natural”?
Of course, orange juice, butter, and eggs should be all-natural. Or at least they better be!
Claiming that something already natural is actually natural isn’t saying much at all.
We’re so bombarded with advertising and marketing that we don’t even realize it when companies are merely stating the obvious to us, and we don’t oftentimes wonder why they’re doing it.
In the same way, in the essential oil industry, “100% all-natural” may not be that significant of a claim at all.
For example, suppose you purchase an oil blend that’s not nearly as potent because it’s been diluted with weaker carrier oils. In that case, it can still claim to be “100% natural,” even though it falls reprehensively short of a pure essential oil.
As companies in this industry figure out how to gain an edge over their competitors, it’s sad to see how questionable marketing tactics are oftentimes utilized to gain extra profit. It’s also sad that these companies expect the customer to not know any better and, therefore, proceed with their deceptive strategies.
You can read two warning letters from the FDA sent to two very well-known essential oil companies here:
You will see that the warnings in the above letters are in reference to claims made by consultants and not claims made by the companies themselves.
These letters from the FDA are somewhat reassuring because while advertising is quite convoluted in this industry, there are still many claims that are illegal to propagate. Specifically, these consultants made claims about their oils curing ailments, which is prohibited for any essential oil company marketing health products.
No bias is intended here regarding these companies themselves; it’s just another example of confusion in this industry, and it’s one worth reading about.
#4 – “As long as it’s all-natural, I can use it safely for whatever use I desire.”
FALSE
Most people familiar with essential oils who also choose to ingest them would agree the above phrase is blatantly wrong. However, while they’d say they disagree with the idea that “anything natural is always safe,” they use their oils with the very same presupposition every time they ingest them.
I am not saying that anyone who ingests EOs is doing so irresponsibly. But what I am saying is that caution should be followed when doing so, especially for pregnant women or anyone with medical conditions. Absolutely do not ingest essential oils unless directed to do so by a healthcare provider or reputable medical professional.
Also, any kind of long-term treatment with essential oils should be done in partnership with a healthcare professional or certified aromatherapist. So, just because something is natural doesn’t mean that it isn’t toxic or will not eventually lead to toxicity over time.
You can read about more about injury reports and analysis by clicking on the links below:
After reading the above reports, you will see how acute reactions with improper essential oil use aren’t actually rare at all.
Those who desire to learn more about essential oils do so because they want to improve their health.
Therefore, do not use oils haphazardly because serious complications can and do occur.
While the essential oil journey is enjoyable and intriguing, remember that you’re dealing with highly concentrated plant compounds.
There is a right way and a wrong way to use essential oils. The best road to take on your essential oil journey is the one that’s paved with caution and filled with curiosity, not to mention a lot of fun as well.
Keep a Clear and Open Mind
It’s OK if you feel a bit overwhelmed. I hope that after reading through the last four common misconceptions regarding essential oils, you’re not too overwhelmed.
There are, of course, other ways people may confuse their decisions when it comes to essential oils in general, but the four ways we addressed are quite common. If you are feeling overwhelmed, it’s OK. If you’re not feeling at all overwhelmed, that’s great.
When it comes to buying essential oils, it’s crucial to simply remain objective.
People who tend to be more objective don’t immediately oppose any one thing. Rather, they’ll consider the options carefully and in their own time, knowing that there’s no reason to have to make a decision immediately without gathering more facts first. So, that’s exactly what you need to do when weighing one essential oil brand with another.
Gather facts from each company you’re considering and see how they all stack up against each other. In your journey to find the best oils, also know that more research is a step in the right direction. But as we mentioned earlier, don’t get stuck in analysis paralysis!
The chances are that as you grow your essential oil collection, you will, from time to time, need to purchase specific oils from different companies. That means you will increase the likelihood of running across companies that don’t meet your own personal standards and preferences.
As you expand your collection, I can almost guarantee you’ll face some disappointment at times, perhaps even from a company you’ve been impressed with! The reason for this is because there really are so many variables that come into play in regards to quality. If you do, it’s not the end of the world.
As You Use and Buy Oils, You Will Begin to See Differences in Quality
Have you ever tried taking music or language lessons before? I remember the first time I played the piano and how exciting it was. I actually thought I played a few really great-sounding pieces and was surprised by how “good” I was.
However, after I progressed through lesson upon lesson, what I once thought was “good” was far inferior to the new proficiencies I achieved over time. Now, there’s no reason why the entire journey can’t be enjoyable, and it should be!
As you begin your journey with oils, just know that years from now, you may look back and think to yourself, “I can’t believe I purchased oils from that company!” or “Why didn’t I notice the terrible and inferior smell of this oil?”.
The most important part of your journey at this stage is that you enjoy it.
You should always enjoy any journey that begins with a desire to take a proactive step in the right direction in regard to your health and wellness. You will make mistakes, you will need help, you will have questions, and you will not always have the results you’d hoped for.
As you gain more and more experience and become more adept at buying and using oils, your senses will be better equipped to detect bad quality. So, just be patient in your learning journey, don’t do anything too rashly, and have fun.
A Beginners Checklist: Choosing Quality Essential Oil
As we’ve already addressed in many more ways than one, claims made by essential oil companies are not verified for quality in any way that’s standardized across the entire industry as a whole. Therefore, we can only differentiate between companies by “being on the lookout” for specific factors in the cycle of any company’s product as well as quality guidelines and practices.
Essential Oil Buyer’s Cheat Sheet:
You should consider purchasing from any essential oil supplier that meets a majority of the standards below:
Dedicated to supplying oils to aromatherapy practitioners and those in the public who are more educated in the field
Owned or operated by trained essential oil specialists and aromatherapy practitioners
Maintain close relationships with their own distillers whenever possible
Provide GC/MS spec reports for each oil they sell, specific for each batch
Willingly provide MSDS sheets (material safety data sheets) when requested
Companies that are known to be ethical and reputable
Companies with a long track record and reputation among authorities in the field (aromatherapists, medical practitioners, educators, etc.)
Wildcrafted, unsprayed, and certified organic products.
Now again, the above list is only a guide. Furthermore, if you really want to get down to exactly what quality standards any particular supplier follows, you’ll likely have to contact them because oftentimes, the general information on their respective websites is somewhat vague.
Don’t be shy at the beginning of your search for quality essential oils; send an email or call the companies you’re considering.
Any company that’s worth its salt will be thrilled that you called and even impressed that you have such a desire for real quality. If you can find essential oil suppliers that meet most of the qualifications on the list, you can feel good about your decision to purchase their oils.
However, not any single factor that made it into the above list is reason enough to purchase the essential oil in question. Rather, think of the above list as a checklist of sorts; the more items that are true of an essential oil brand you’re considering, the better.
Here’s what I mean: let’s take a look at “organic,” for example. The government actually restricts and regulates how this word is used. Whether a product is “100% organic, “organic,” “made with organic,” or contains organic ingredients, there are specific requirements for each designation.
In this specific case, “100% organic” has the strictest standards. So again, there is no silver bullet.
Reach out to essential oil suppliers that look promising and get more details.
The Research Begins
By this point, you should have a far more comprehensive understanding of how to select higher-quality essential oils.
You also know that nothing should keep you from using essential oils in the near future along this exciting learning journey. Marketing tactics aside, you can now more fully scrutinize the various claims made by essential oil companies. Therefore, I’ll leave you with a list of several companies you should investigate further.
As time goes on, I may make changes to this list, individually review companies on the list, or add more details for each company appearing on the list.
My main purpose in listing these companies for you is to give you a few places to begin your search for quality essential oils. My purpose in this post is not, however, to recommend any one company over the rest because I really want you to make that determination for yourself. If I see certain companies that are really doing a great job with quality, I will likely recommend them in other future posts or pages. So, stay tuned. We’re in this journey together.
Remember, I want you to remain objective, learn how to research, and make solid decisions for yourself. It isn’t my place to make these decisions for you because I know how valuable the learning process will be on your journey. That includes the content we write here at Enticingly Simple as well. Test what we say and make informed decisions.
Essential Oil Companies to Consider
Mountain Rose Essential Oils
Rocky Mountain Oils
Snow Lotus
Healing Naturals Oils
Aromandina
Starwest Botanicals
Aromatics International
Aura Cacia
Now Foods
Lunaroma
Stillpoint Aromatics
Floracopeia
Aromatics International
Plant Therapy
*The above list is in no specific order.
Bringing it All Together
You now have what you need to make the best buying decisions when it comes to purchasing high-quality essential oils. Take what you’ve learned here and put it to good use! If you’ve made it through to the end of this post, you’ve demonstrated that you really do care about what products you use in your home.
You also have a helpful checklist of factors to consider when you purchase your oils, you’re better prepared to wade through deceptive marketing tactics, and you have a beginner’s list of great companies to consider researching for your purchases.
Quality Essential Oils: FAQs
Do you still have some questions lingering in your mind about buying essential oils? Here are the most frequently asked questions we’ve come across, along with their answers, to help you become an informed buyer.
1. Why is the quality of essential oils crucial?
Quality is of utmost importance when it comes to essential oils because the effectiveness of the oil is deeply linked to its purity. A good quality essential oil should be 100% pure without any additives or synthetic chemicals.
2. Can I buy essential oils from any store?
While you can find essential oils in many stores, it’s essential to purchase them from a reputable source to ensure the oil’s quality and purity.
3. How can I verify the quality of an essential oil before purchasing?
Key indicators of quality to look for might include:
Certified organic or wildcrafted labels
The scientific name of the plant on the label
Purity statement
4. Why do the prices of essential oils vary widely?
The prices of essential oils can vary due to factors such as the plant’s rarity, the country of origin, and the difficulty of extraction.
5. Can I consume essential oils internally?
Most essential oils are unsafe for internal consumption without proper guidance from a healthcare practitioner due to their high potency.
6. Are essential oils safe to use during pregnancy?
Some essential oils are not recommended for use during pregnancy. It’s crucial to consult with a healthcare practitioner before using.
7. How should I store my essential oils?
The ideal storage conditions for essential oils are in a cool, dark place. Sunlight and heat can alter their properties.
8. Are essential oils safe for pets?
Some essential oils can be harmful to pets. Therefore, it’s important to consult with a vet before using essential oils around your pets.
9. How long do essential oils last?
Typically, essential oils will last for 2-3 years if properly stored.
10. How do I choose a carrier oil to mix with an essential oil?
The choice of a carrier oil depends on your skin type, the therapeutic effect you’re after, and personal preference. Fractionated coconut oil, almond oil, and jojoba oil are great options.
Mountain Rose Essential Oils