Essential Oils

I think we can all agree that essential oils are undeniably the biggest fad right now, everyone knows at least one person who sells them. But what are they? What is the big deal? And why does everyone think they are an expert on essential oils (spoiler: I am not an expert! I simply am in the long process of researching, learning and educating myself on safe and proper use of oils)

A Brief History

To understand essential oils, I think it's important to know the brief history of these oils. Ancient Egyptians have been using oils as early as 2000 BC for medicinal benefits, beauty care, and spiritual enhancement in addition to clay and salts. The Greeks also used essential oils. Hippocrates, who is still an influence to the medical community today, studied the medicinal properties of over 300 plants. In India, essential oils were used as part of their Ayurvedic health care system, Ayurvedic records dating as far back as 2000 BC tell of doctors using oils of cinnamon, ginger, myrrh, coriander, spikenard and sandalwood. Herbs and plant medicine were an important part of traditional Chinese medicine. The oldest surviving medical text that we know of, dated around 2700 BC contains information on the use of 365 different plants. The bible even mentions at least 12 different types of oils.


What's the Hype?
Essential oils are not new, so what's the sudden hype? MLM (Multi Level Marketing) companies in particular can be partially held responsible for the boom in popularity. Their representatives are trained to sell, market their products and get their friends and family involved. This can be done without any formal education on essential oils or aromatherapy. This makes it easy to become a rep, sell a product and make some money.

In addition, the modern medical community has proven that they don't always have our best interest and health in mind. A lot of doctors push medicines with synthetic ingredients that have dangerous side effects. They spend very little time discussing their patients health when it comes to nutrition, exercise and lifestyle but quickly prescribes these dangerous pharmaceuticals. There is for sure a handful of great doctors out there who do take the time to learn and understand their patients health, but in general, modern medical practices are more profit driven than health driven. This makes people seek out more natural or holistic alternatives.

The Downside of Oil's
The downside of oil's is that misinformation is spread like wildfire about their uses and safety. Even among some of the most well-meaning people, bad and unsafe advice is given. For example, oils should never be used neat (without dilution) because they are extremely potent, can cause major irritation to the skin and irreversible sensitization. Their potency is so strong that one drop of oil is equivalent to 25-75 cups of the herbal tea of the same plant and as another example, 22lbs of rose petals are used to make just 5ml of rose oil. Always use caution and avoid use of certain oils around children and pets. Essential oils should also never be ingested, the only exception for this is if you are under the guidance of a certified aromatherapist who knows your medical history and is educated on the internal use of oils. The International Federation of Aromatherapists Code of Ethics states

"No aromatherapist shall use essential oils for internal ingestion or internal application nor shall any aromatherapist advocate or promote such use of essential oils unless the practicing aromatherapist has medical, naturopathic, herbalist, or similar qualifications and holds an insurance policy which specifically covers the internal application of essential oils. (IFA code of ethics. Simply Essential, No. 11 December 1993)."

Buzz words like "therapeutic grade" are also used by companies to market and sell their oils. There is no independent body or quality standards for the authentication or performance of essential oils that designates this name. It's important to research the brands of essential oil's that you are considering and decide which brand(s) work best for you.

Some people have even gone as far as completely boycotting or refusing to buy from the companies that promote these unsafe uses. This video, created by a certified aromatherapist is a good example of why a lot of people are moving away from using these companies and seeking companies that promote the safe use of oils.

The Upside of Oils & How I Use Them
When used safely, essential oils can benefit your life in many ways. They can be used to improve health and overall well-being. They can help with stress relief, boost your mood and energy levels, promote focus and relaxation, or make your house or office space smell great!

I typically diffuse oils in my office to help create a comfortable environment that will help me with what I need that day. If I am exhausted and struggling to stay awake at my desk, I'll diffuse oils that increase my energy levels and improve my mood. If I feel distracted I'll use oils that promote focus and productivity. I also make home-made roller bottles for things like headaches and menstrual pain. They are so easy to make all you need is a roller bottle, the essential oils, a carrier oil for dilution and the roller top (I use THIS chart in addition to the diluting guidelines given by the company as my guide for diluting oils). There are oils for almost everything, the key is to do your own research and use a company you trust.

Oil Brands I Use & Trust
I debated if I wanted to include this information in this post, as I wanted to remain as unbiased as possible. However I figured I'd include some brands for those of you who can't afford or don't trust the MLM brands.

Plant Therapy- This company is definitely my favorite. They have full transparency in their oils. They third party test and all of their GC/MS reports are available right on their website so you know exactly what you are getting. They also have an awesome rewards program, they do giveaways and spotlights weekly and you get a free oil on your birthday! Plant Therapy also has certified aromatherapists on staff who write blogs, make great DIY and informational videos and live streams and they are available at any time if you have a question or concern. They also have a kidsafe line for those looking to use oils with their children. PlT is not an MLM company, so they are able to offer their oils at an affordable price and they have awesome blends!

Eden's Garden- I primarily use Plant Therapy, but I do have a few of Eden's Garden oils as well. They also provide their GC/MS reports as well as great recipes and ways to safely use their oils. They have a rewards program and are also not MLM, allowing them to price their oils at an affordable price.

Oil Brands I Haven't Used Personally, But Have A Good Reputation
Poofy Organics
Rocky Mountain Oils
Aura Cacia
Mountain Rose Herbs