Healthy Home
When I first began my healthy living journey over 6 years ago, the last thing I expected to encounter was division among those in natural living circles.
In particular, I’ve witnessed otherwise meek and mild mamas tear each other apart over essential oils.
My sisters, this should not be!
My introduction to essential oils
I started using essential oils about four years ago. I remember my doula mentioning that they would aid in pain relief and relaxation during childbirth.
“Essential oils? What are those?” I asked.
According to Wikepedia, essential oils are:
“a concentrated hydrophobic liquid containing volatile aroma compounds from plants.”
I soon learned that these powerful plant compounds could indeed aid in relaxation and pain relief–and so much more.
Back then, even the cheapest brand of oils were a sacrifice for our family to purchase. We were living on a low income, so I made those oils stretch for as long as possible.
I only used them when I felt absolutely necessary–although they quickly became one of my favorite items in my natural remedies arsenal.
When I was gifted with my first bottle of thieves oil, I made it last an entire year.
From toddlerhood, my three girls have known to stretch out their legs and lift their feet in the air when Mommy pulls out her oils before bedtime. We do not use them every day, but when one of them has the slightest cold or other ailment, out they come.
Indeed, our middle is currently getting over walking pneumonia, so I rubbed each of the girls’ chests down with a diluted blend of respiratory-strenthening oils tonight before I put them in bed–and I rubbed their feet with a diluted immune-boosting blend of oils.
I credit oils with helping us get over the ugly, no-good Norovirus a few years back, for keeping me from getting a stomach virus when the rest of my family fell ill and for even recently removing an in-grown hair which had grown into a sizable swollen lump on my armpit. (Sorry for the grossness!)
It wasn’t until I had been using oils for about a year or so when I began to hear whispers of the brand wars.
There are, you see, two major companies–which I will not name here–who are at big odds with each other.
Supposedly one company did another wrong.
Supposedly one has superior oils (to not just its biggest competition but to all other oils brands).
Supposedly there are lawsuits and lies and deception all around.
I’ve seen ladies get so wrapped up in these essential oils brand wars that it’s pushed me to never want to have anything to do with properly endorsing either brand.
In all actuality, I use oils from both brands–and from other smaller brands as well.
You see, I don’t place my loyalty in brands. I place it in people.
When I do purchase from one of the major brands, I have certain representatives whom I will give my patronage. (One of them is currently a site sponsor. I have chosen to work with her since she is not pushy and truly seems to want to help others.)
Essential Oils are Big Business
As other bloggers and oils representatives have watched my blog grow over the past couple years, I’ve had several requests to sign up to sell oils. I’ve even had some mention: “Look how large your following is! You could be making big money by selling oils under me!”
(They would also make money off of my platform then, right?)
But I refuse to sell oils myself. It’s just not what this site is all about. I want to create a community that is all about grace-filled, natural living–for those who can afford the higher-end oils, and for those who can’t.
And if I sold the bigger named oils myself, I know that some of you couldn’t buy them.
Some of the oils companies make recommendations for daily use of oils.
It’s just something I personally cannot do.
Because those of you who need to make a bottle of oil stretch out for an entire year would feel defeated if I were to tell you that the only path to healing was to use it every day.
For those who can afford the higher-end oils, I say: “Go for it!”
In fact, because I am able to work out a trade with our site sponsor, I am able to use mostly name brand oils now myself. I love them. For me personally, I love the convenience of the pre-mixed essential oils blends that these companies offer.
But I would not be using them if I were still living on a low income. I would be purchasing more cost effective brands and making my own blends.
And I will not stand for oils representatives or bloggers or anyone who shames the mother who has to make a choice between feeding her children or rubbing oils on their feet.
Tummies must be filled first.
And as far as natural healing goes? There are many, many natural remedies. Oils are just one. And ultimately? God is the Great Healer–with oils or without.
Education is Key
So what is the grace-filled answer to the essential oils wars?
I do not expect to begin a revolution here, but I do hope to make you think:
Before bashing another oils brand, do your own research.
Brand representatives are trained, yes, and some seek out more in-depth training via aromatherapy courses and the like, but do not uphold what your brand representative says as gospel truth. They have a knowledge base, but you are ultimately responsible for your own health choices. Don’t just make them lightly.
Read for yourself. Review the results of independent testings. Take an essential oils course.
There are many opinions and even varying schools of thoughts on the safety of essential oils, the need for proper dilution, topical and oral use of oils, and the list could go on.
Educate yourself from a wide range of sources–until you are able to objectively draw your own conclusions about essential oils.
What are your thoughts about essential oils and the essential oils wars?
Robyn
My organization makes 100% organic and toxic free health,personal and essential oil products! We do lot use heat to make our greens or anything and our oils are produced completely from chemical free pesticide free and wild crafted harvests. So I disagree that there is no difference in oils! Since oils are so microscopic and penetrate to a deep cellular level why wouldn’t u use the best and purest form? There are issues with DoTerra and YL and some of the therapeutic claims! Anyway if you check out my website you can read more on what I am telling you and read all of our certifications which are about 50. My intention here is to give you more information. Since you are into natural living we provide the best products for our bodies removing toxins from daily use items! Thanks
emily
I don’t recall the post saying that all oils are the same. I think she was just saying that people need to do what they can with what they have and not everyone can afford the pricier brands.
I’ll probably be checking out your site today 🙂
SArah
It’s asking for your website or your number, Robyn….Can you give me that information? Looking into your company. Thanks!
tonia doussett
doterra is hands down the purest, safest, most effective oil on the planet.
Other companies try to copycat but it is impossible. The integrity of the company is second to none, that is why do terra is No. 1
Tammy
http://www.fda.gov/ICECI/EnforcementActions/WarningLetters/2014/ucm415809.htm
Doterra and Young Living have both received letters from the FDA telling them to STOP all the marketing hype and claims making. You see, doTerra sheeple, they are WRONG. If you want pure essential oils you don’t go to those that are unable to follow FDA guidelines. Stay away, far away, from them.
Min
http://healthimpactnews.com/2014/fda-targets-essentials-oils-see-eos-as-threat-to-new-ebola-drugs/
All in all, the FDA is targeting natural living in general, not just one or two particular essential oil companies. Pretty much most, or all, of any natural remedies are not FDA approved because the FDA runs off of patents (see article). No one can patent an herb or an essential oil because it has already existed; it’s not created. The FDA is very much focused on supporting pharmaceuticals, but not the naturals.
I don’t know what the war is going on between the different companies, but I don’t care. I don’t have time for drama. I do my research on what oils I need and I make the best decision for me. I know I’m not too thrilled about these pyramid type companies (I know, some of these companies don’t claim they are pyramids, but I don’t know what you would officially call them), although I have ordered a couple times from certain companies. What I mostly do is order directly from a certain company wholesale, or if I don’t have an order big enough, I will go to someone I know who owns a nutrition store where she orders directly from the company wholesale. I am part of a buyer’s club where I don’t pay retail price, I put in my order and buy the item for wholesale + 10% (the owner of the store has to get income somehow of course).
Each of us does the best we can do and make the decisions we see fit at the time. Unfortunately, we have to do our own research because I’m sorry to point out the government is for the most part not interested in supporting natural living as a whole.
Angela Ferrara
Min, you hit the nail on the head with your comment!
Jen
Min, your comment about FDA is spot on. I have a hard time trusting PHARMA and FDA.
Sarah
Wow, took no time at all for the bashing the article is talking about to start up in the comments.
Mipchelle
It NEVER stops. I cannot stand the top two brands simply because of their reps. I hesitate to even admit to using oils period b/c I don’t want to be lumped in with the obnoxious oil war people
Amanda
Amen. Such a great article and then WHAM!! I agree whole heartedly that oils are amazing. But it saddens me to watch the hurtful arguing. Do you want to helppeople or herd people?
Joobee
Yeah. There needs to be Thumbs-Up/Thumbs Down buttons on this blog!
(I would’ve given yours a Thumbs Up, Sarah…=^)
Tamarlyn
So true @Sarah…They missed the point of the post!
Makes me NOT want to order from them!
Debbie
I would like to clarify, neither doterra or Young Living are being targeted by the FDA. It is the reps that use wording like treat , cure that caused those letters to be sent. in those letters they tell each company to train their reps or file the products under drugs. That is what is breaking the law. Not the product!
they are no different then any company selling vitamins. note that on all vitamins and supplements even cold meds there is a disclaimer that ” these statements have not been evaluated by the food and drug Administration. This product is not intented to diagnose, treat, cure or prevent any disease.”
It means use your judgement , educate your self.
I chose to get involved with one of these companies. I also still go to my doctor, I just like the opportunity to help boost my immune system and help lessen my medical bills.
Angela Ferrara
The FDA and government are targeting vitamin, oil, and all natural wellness companies. These natural wellness companies are not safe from our corrupt government, and FDA. I have a friend that use to work for the FDA who had to quit. She couldn’t stand the corruption, and fraud there.
Bridgette
“that is why do terra is No. 1” It appears as though you did not read the article.
Adrian
This is precisely what the article was about, and why I went with another brand. And guess what? It worked just as well, at a fraction of the cost. No company can be superior if its representatives are so pushy…in my opinion.
cheryl
What brand do you use? I am having a hard time with this! I want to use essential oils but do NOT want to be part of any multi-level pyramid company! Pleas help!
DanaJ
Uhm, doTerra is a spinoff from YL. They actually have copied the majority of YLs oils and just renamed them. Also, DT doesn’t have an independent (disinterested) QA/QC tester. They also do not guarantee purity from see to seal. Just a few things to think about.
Erin
Emily is right–I never stated that there is no difference in oils. But I do not believe that just one brand is the be all, end all.
Sue
Thank you Erin!
Cheryl Parker
I agree that oils are part of an overall health program – they complement other healthy choices. I did want to mention that there is now a clinical grade oil available to the public. There are many reasons that clinical grade is important. You may or may not get the same result with an oil if the constituents in it are not standardized. The company I have chosen to use after doing due diligence on research (I am a geek and a nurse and a skeptic so I have to research everything!!) actually puts their oils through such a complete testing protocol that they reject about 85% of the oil batches. Those oils are then sent back to the suppliers for use by other companies. Quality and purity are the two most important elements of a oil. I encourage everyone to just educate themselves!!
Tiffany Purnell
What a wonderfully thoughtful post…great job of navigating the essential oil landmines. My favorite parts were your reinforcement of feeding children before feeling pressure to invest in essential oils if you don’t have the money right now. Also, I loved the part where you emphasize that God is the ultimate healer, with or without oils…fantastically done!
Jamie
I completely agree with you Tiffany! I was thinking the same thing. So awesome that you recognize that it is God who is the ultimate healer. Thank-you Erin for this post, it was very encouraging.
Rhonnie
I agree! Well said!
And yet obviously some people didn’t actually read the article as there is an entire thread of posts that are further arguing the “this oil” over “that oil” and encouraging division.
Wow! 🙁
Erin
Thank you so much, Tiffany and Jamie and Rhonnie!
Tracy
That was my “great take” from the article too….”God is the Great Healer” 🙂 If your intention is to really help someone then give them your opinion and let them decide for themselves. Everyone is different and what works for one may or may not be the best for another….these folks must be taking this too personal!
emily
It’s crazy how natural living has created such a huge division among people, and in my stage of life I see it especially among moms. Rrally we need to care for and support each other because we’re just doing the best we can! I’m just entering into the world of essential oils amd am excited about it! It’s taken me a while though because we’ve had months of saving to get to this point. I’m thankful you provide people with information with you own successes and failures amd support us as we walk through some tough stages of life! 🙂
Anne
Hi Erin!
I’ve been using EOs since late last fall, thanks to a friend (who became a Rep to help her family and others) sharing her oils with me. You see, I have a child with multiple disabilities and chronic health issues that I’m raising by myself and with her needs, I’m unable to work (also now have my own health issues and am recovering from a stroke at 41). Anyway, we live below poverty level and I need to spread the money for safe food (gluten, casein, soy, yeast free, artificial free, non-GMO, low/no pesticide etc), supplements, including EOs, while trying to keep a roof over our heads, so I need to be able to make those oils last!
EOs have been amazing for her! After more than 13yrs of frequent night wakings, she started sleeping through the night 4-5nights/wk. That alone is well worth the cost! My friend sent us a diffuser, which helps in ways that using the oils topically does not. The oils I diffuse for her don’t last as long, because I’m using several drops per day, sometimes multiple times per day.
Where I make the oils stretch is with the oils I use topically. I buy these roller bottles, use about 10 drops of EO total, and fill with a nice carrier oil like apricot kernal oil. http://www.amazon.com/Plain-Roll–Refillable-Glass-Perfume/dp/B008QMPTSM/ref=sr_1_1?ie=UTF8&qid=1410439140&sr=8-1&keywords=Roller+bottles
Depending on how many times a day I use a particular roller (I like to mix up my own blends, based on our needs), a roller bottle will last me several weeks to a few months.
I almost forgot! I’ve also made up a bunch of inhalers, with the oils that help her when she smells them. Nice, because like the roller bottles, I can pop them into her bag to take with us when we go out. I think i use about 5 drops total for these. http://www.amazon.com/Aromatherapy-Inhaler-White-Plastic-wicks/dp/B00JMI904S/ref=sr_1_1?ie=UTF8&qid=1410439981&sr=8-1&keywords=Inhalers Just another way to help make those precious oils last!
Amy
Hi Anne!
I hope you and your daughter are doing fine.
I’m wondering what EO you use for your daughter’s sleep, that helps her sleep through the night.
Thanks!
Amy
Suzanne
My problem with either of the MLMs is that they are very expensive and I have gotten dangerous false information from both of them, I honestly can’t believe they let just anyone sell something that could really hurt people if used improperly, please please do your own research especially if you are using them with children, a lot has been recommended that is not to be used with kids under 10 and it is being sold as a yet thing helper, such bad info!
Debbi Higgins
I am sorry that you have received harmful information from anyone, regardless of which company it was. You must remember, as individuals, some people have less experience than others, and do not continue to grow in their education, as far as learning just what these oils are, how potent they are, what they are used for, and which oils shouldn’t be used during pregnancy, applied on children of a certain age, etc. Having said all that, make no mistake, their is a vast difference among the essential oils/and the companies that produce them. Did you know that TECHNICALLY any oil that contains as little as 5% of the pure essential oil, can then add practically anything else they want, as carriers, and additives, and still call them ESSENTIAL OILs? The danger here is that anything that is applied topically, enters the body and is distributed to all the cells in the body? It is my personal choice, to only use 100% pure therapeutic grade oils, and NO, not because I can afford them, but because I cannot afford to have additives going to all the cells in my body. The molecules in essential oils are very small, and reach every cell in your body within 20 minutes. I live on disability, and have sacrificed for my oils. I knew I was poisoning my body with RX drugs, and was sick and tired of being sick and tired. Our bodies are not craft projects, and thus I will not use craft grade oils, though they may be cheaper…..or cost effective, on my body.
I too am aware of what is being dubbed, the OIL WARS, but there is a reason for that, as nasty as it is being made to appear. One company used to be a part of the other, learned their skill from them, and then started out on their own, using that knowledge, and claiming it as their own. One company has their own farms and distilleries, the other does not. I agree, do your own research. An excellent research source is a book entitled “HEALING OILS OF THE BIBLE”………In the beginning GOD created he heavens and the earth.” GOD created the plants and vegetation, that were not then contaminated with toxins. It is obvious to me, that when God created all of the worlds vegetation on the 3rd day, and Man on the 6th, that he had a plan. A plan for our health and abundance. Why then, would we want to use anything other than PURE Therapeutic grade oils?
One last offering for your research……The FDA has never regulated the quality of essential oils, BUT they have made certain companies remove their claims of “PURE THERAPEUTIC GRADE” from their packaging. WHY? Do your research. The FDA, in an unprecedented move, recently reached out to the Owner and Founder of one of the Major Essential Oil Companies, to set the standard for ALL essential oils. They did this, because this company goes above and beyond what would be required of any essential oil company. Do the research and you will find out WHO this person is, and which company he is with, and you will discover all you need to know, about what makes up an essential oil, and what a PURE Therapeutic Grade essential oil is. Then you will have the answer to not only the OIL WARS, but have all the facts to base your own personal decision, as to what you want to put in your own body, that of your children, as well as those you would recommend to others.
God Bless and Keep each and every one of you in his care. Remember, God was and is, the ultimate healer. He is the same today as he was yesterday, and forever will be. Our bodies are/should be a temple unto HIM. I never apply an oil to my body, or for any other purpose, without saying a prayer. Prayer increases the frequency of the oils.
<3
Lil
This has to be one of the rudest and most off-putting diatribes I have read yet. This is exactly the attitude that has soured me on both the MLM Essential Oils companies. Frankly all of this hyperbole speaks more of something to hide than of truly quality products. There’s so much dangerous information being handed out willy-nilly by undereducated consultants that have been brainwashed into believing the Therapeutic Pure Hype that it is going to get people hurt or killed.
The author of this blog wrote a well reasoned, balanced opinion and your incensed rant merely reiterated the point she was very gracefully and tactfully trying to make. Congratulations on proving her point for her.
Eden
“The FDA, in an unprecedented move, recently reached out to the Owner and Founder of one of the Major Essential Oil Companies, to set the standard for ALL essential oils.” That statement is not true. If you have proof of that please share a link. And the book “The Healing Oils of the Bible” is historically inaccurate.
Judi
Eden, who commented that “The Healing Oils of the Bible” is historically inaccurate, can you mention in what ways it is so? Just wondering because it had been recommended to me by a friend and I know nothing about the book or the content. Thank you for your input.
Eden
There are a lot of posts I could link but this is very straight to the point, I hope this helps! https://www.facebook.com/notes/essential-oil-university/essential-oil-myth-5/10152690999838083
DG
You do understand though that many companies are 100% therapeutic grade…and the companies that say something like “we’re the only ones who can say we are certified therapeutic yadd yadda” are telling the truth BECAUSE THEY COINED THE TERM and it would be illegal for someone else to use it. Eden’s Garden and Plant Therapy have 100 percent pure oils too… and I’m pretty sure the God I believe in has more to worry about than the level of purity of OILS… but the writer is clearly trying to say one thing and one thing only: RESEARCH and don’t just succumb to brand names.
Lori
Thank you I so agree. I love plant therapy and Now Foods Essential oils. Get great results from both companies as they are pure essential oils and a very affordable price!!
Tammy
http://www.fda.gov/ICECI/EnforcementActions/WarningLetters/2014/ucm415809.htm
There’s one for Young Living too.
Stay away from companies who can’t follow FDA guidelines.
Lynn
Really… You trust an unelected government agency to keep you and your family safe? The FDA is not looking out for consumers, the warning letters were that warnings… not judgements. They were letters to warn companies to be careful how you say what you say and to whom.
Garry Archer
We have been sold out by the FDA for a long while so,why should we trust them?However we can and should trust God in everything.
Lura
I started working in the beauty business for an all natural company starting back in 1986, all aroma’s were 100% essential oils. There is a difference in oils, on many levels. No one large company has the best of everything. They have contract with growers, the seasonal weather changes the quailty of the oils vary. Now they use CO2 extraction and can alter that by stealing molecues from another cheaper oil to fill out the product and make it what it would be if there was the perfect amount of sunlight, rain etc…
And the smaller company are often buying from the same wholesalers, so there is often no difference between them. If you buy wholesale you know there are a variety of available grades in many oils also.
What might be the best aroma is often not the most energetic, It is up to the consumer to know what they are using a product for and to find what works best for there purpose.
This is ego, and marketing. I am the best, I have the best. We find it every where now.. People must have the best.. or what they think is the best. Let go of it people… What is best for you , may not be the best for me… I prefer this, it suits me. I find the newly converted to est oils, yoga, healthy diet (veggi, veggan, raw, etc) all try to say what they do is best and some can be rabid about it. I smile and say I am glad it works for you, I have had the good fortune to have all of these things in my life for the past 30+ years. Do what serves you.
Diana
GREAT post! Not only addressing Graceful responses to EO wars. Everyone indeed should do their own research. And when you find something that YOU choose to use, go with it. But we should NEVER be bashing another EO company (or person) about their choice. I have never used YL or DT oils. I have used a variety of “brands” however. I’m embarking on a new journey this month with a new line of the only proven, clinical grade EOs that will be on the market and they have patented proof of that. (NO this is not a sales pitch post. I’m so not a sales person.)
Secondly… You have SOLD me on the bundle with the addition of the Essential Oil & Natural Health course at Vintage Remedies. I LOVE that education source and have taken a free introductory course and so want to take more courses, when I am able financially. You made this course of interest to me available now. I will be taking you up on your offer today! Thanks so much for your honest, forward approach at he unnecessary EO “wars” and for making such a great education resource available to us all!
Brandi Cook
Which brand are you starting to use now, if you don’t mind me asking?
Diana
Brandi, I am more than happy to share the information I have whether here (with Erin’s approval) or you can contact me privately if that is preferred ([email protected]). I will save I am a skeptic of “MLMs” but am VERY impressed with what I have learned and those involved in this endeavor (a Harvard PhD developing the science/technology that is already patented). And with that I will add, I would STILL use other EOs for something I wanted/needed and it just be available elsewhere. There will always be advances in the fields of science/technology/medicine (natural and modern) but we pay tribute where it’s due for those before who pave the way for research and advancement with what knowledge they have provided to that point. Going back to Erin’s phrase… Graceful responses and NOT “EO brand wars”. 🙂
Renee
Independent scientists have debunked the claim that these new oils are the only therapeutic or clinical grade on the market. Like most companies, whether shoe companies, food companies, car companies, or essential oil companies, most of the talk is marketing. When you dig in and do the research you can find companies that stand out above the rest as far as integrity and quality of oils. That Harvard dude didn’t have any essential oil experience. My father is one of the smartest men I know and fairly well known in the midwest. He could say he was starting an oil company and all kinds of people would follow him because of his credentials. But none of those credentials have to do with essential oils. However, very few would recognize that because of marketing him and marketing their product. I have a good friend who is with the company making all these new “We are the only one” claims and she cannot answer the most basic questions. That is a problem
Diana
Hi Renee – Assuming you are referring to the “Harvard dude” that I was talking about in my post above, he HAS had experience with essential oils and received a top Internship with the NIH and researched essential oils. That Internship and his work there at the NIH is what caused Harvard to recruit him (he didn’t go looking to apply, they came to him) where he completed and 8 year program in 3 1/2 years, the second fastest of anyone.
(http://www.biology.utah.edu/undergraduate/research/Alumni_Pages/Plant_Joshua.php)
And no they are not therapeutic grade but they are in fact the only PROVEN clinical grade on the market, per the standards/levels required to be used in clinical research studies. Dr Plant (the Harvard ‘dude’) through his work was able to acquire those benchmark standards and all oils from Améo are tested for those benchmarks, beyond the standard testing all oil companies used, by patented testing procedures. If any batch of oils tested do NOT prove to be cell ready… to actually permeate the cell walls… then they are rejected for use or sale by the company. And many batches have been rejected, even coming from the same supplier. Lots of things causes the variations that aren’t otherwise detected by the normal testing done throughout the industry.
I would never say that ‘all others are worthless’. I’m sure there are other great oils out there and some that could fit the category of ‘clinical’. However… I personally tried a few other brands myself and was very disappointed (and even doubted if essential oils work at all). When Améo oils worked for me repeatedly, I did my own research and from all I’ve learned, I have chosen to use only Améo to be assured that I can trust them for ME.
I’m not sure what questions you are asking your friend that she cannot answer but I’m sure the answers could be obtained. Perhaps she doesn’t have a good resource available to her or maybe she is new to the company and isn’t as knowledgeable as others? That is no fault of her or anything against the company. I’d be happy to hear your questions and get your answers.
We all have to make the decision best for us and we won’t all make the same ones. But respecting each others decision GRACEFULLY is the point here that might be being missed. Have a blessed day!
Amanda
Ameo oils are amazing! I have tried the others got hooked on these and started selling them. So if you guys need a supplier who can get you some at wholesale. Hit me up LOL 😀
Have a Blessed Day!
Tara Pantera
My EO collection looks pretty similar to yours minus the expensive brands. I’m one of those people that had to make a choice between ordering one teensy bottle of an expensive brand’s blend, or order a bunch of oils, make the blend myself, then make it again and again, plus other blends and uses. I have Plant Therapy, Mountain Rose Herbs, Eden’s, Now, etc. Every blend I’ve made and every use I’ve employed has worked for me. It may not work for every person or every use, but they’ve been perfect for me and my family!
The claims of these brands, “Ours is the ONLY brand pure enough for _____”, “Our brand is the ONLY brand that actually works!”….it’s so outrageous that I don’t believe anything they say…even if some of it is true. It’s like when people used to sell crazy “elixirs” from horse drawn wagons. Even if they did work for something, you couldn’t believe it because they were so adamant that it cured everthing.
Debbi Higgins
I agree with your overall comment, however there is only one brand, that is allowed to use the verbage, 100% PURE THERAPEUTIC GRADE ESSENTIAL OIL, and that is not my word, but fact. The research is easy to do, and is public information. The main thing you must consider is that we are each unique…..nobody in the world, has the exact DNA as we do. Thus not every oil will necessarily work the same for everyone. That has nothing to do with any certain company, but our own DNA. I have friends, that have praised a certain oil, that may be a wonderful oil, but did not work the same for me, even though the ailment was the same. Fortunately, many oils have a multitude of uses….in fact, most oils have a multitude of uses, so I am never discouraged if one oil worked for my girlfriends headache but not for mine. I simply find one that does.
ONE way to check if any oil you might be using is PURE, is check to see if there is an expiration date. If there is, it is NOT pure. Fair warning however, this is not the only test, so each person should do their own research. Just as RX and Over the counter drugs, damage our livers, so can oils, if they are not pure. <3 God Bless
Jennifer
With all due respect, the reason that DT is the only company who can say their oils are “certified pure therapeutic grade” is because they trademarked that *slogan.* It’s not actually a certification or a grade and it’s definitely not a fact of any kind. It’s like saying no other food is “Mmmm. Good.” Well, no one else can say that except McDonald’s because they *own* that *slogan.* That doesn’t mean no one else’s food is actually good.
And yes, essential oils do have an expiration date. They don’t spoil, they lose their potency. Even the purest things on earth lose their efficacy when they’re cut off from their life source.
Susan
She is not talking about DT
Susan
That is an excellent point, Jennifer. dt is not the only company to trademark a term in the oils industry and consumers are seeing that it doesn’t necessarily add a lot of value. Labeling oils with an expiration date is not an industry standard, not required by the FDA and only done by choice of any manufacturer. Oils kept in a cool, dry location (expensive oils even refrigerated) will last years, if there are any fillers or additives an “essential oil” will go bad. Eucalyptus EO actually improves with age. Citrus oils are more volatile and will get funky sooner because they are cold pressed from the rind and the closest byproduct of a raw food. The more they are exposed to air the sooner they will break down. I think putting expiration dates on bottles is convincing consumers that they must be used up quickly or replaced after certain periods which shouldn’t be the case with pure oils.
JoobeeP
Interesting about the citrus oils, I followed a Pinterest recipe for “natural” orange cleaner made by steeping orange peels in cheap (really cheap) vodka. Did it, forgot about it, came back later and gave it the sniff test; almost removed all my nose hairs! And too strong to use for cleaning either.
Years ago, I spilled some orange spice tea on my old oak table and it removed the finish. Same thing when I managed to spill a small amount of Orange Vodka (better kind than cheap, above) on the same table.
Please note: I’m not a drunk! I’m also (usually) not a klutz (drunk or otherwise) who spills as much as it sounds like!
Thanks or the tips!
Joobee
AGAIN: there needs to be Thumbs-Up/Thumbs Down buttons on this blog! (not facebook ones)
Your analogy gets THREE Thumbs up! (McDonalds comparison reminds me of the crazy that caused TARGÉT to decide they own the trademark of the “target” bullseye, (what, I need their permission to open up my crossbow target practice studio? If I wanna use traditional “targets”???? Uh-Oh, I hope I didn’t violate the rules by muttering their trademarked WORD!!!)
Anyway, thanks for spelling out exactly what I’m thinking. And for anyone wondering which is true, the fact is, “only certified therapeutic blah-blah-blah BS” was coined by doTerra, for their exclusive use, is connected to no FDA approval, certified certification (whatever that would be), and thankfully, ONLY APPLIES TO THEIR PRODUCT!!! Brings to mind to old axiom about shooting oneself in the foot.
Patty
It’s the title of this post that drew me to read it, as the norm is claims of who’s the best and an all out bash-a-thon. “Grace filled…” made me immediately think of a company who’s oils I have been blessed to use for many years… Heritage Essential Oils is owned and operated by a homeschooling Christian family. They steer clear of any bashing and make no competitive claims, but an assurance of quality and value that I have found to be reliable backed up by priority shipping. Linda truly has a heart full of grace and compassion and shares graciously with all in need, with all the praise going to our Creator and encouragement to pray and seek God for wisdom for our families. Because they view their business as a ministry first and foremost, their prices reflect their desire that the healing capabilities of quality essential oils be available to all. Their website, www.heritageessentisloils.com
is a treasure trove of information, helps, testimonies, and in what can be a toxic environment of monetary driven competition, a breath of fresh air. (They have a Facebook page as well.) I worked in a health food store for several years and have been active in the alternative medicine field for almost 30 years. I have used many different brands of essential oils, including YL and doTerra, and have friends that use all different ones. We work together to help our families and each other. No competition or “I’m right, you’re wrong” allowed. Thank you for addressing this topic and allowing me to “share the grace”.
Sheri
We also use and love Heritage Oils. I was a distributor and have many friends high up in the chain of one of the two major oils. There isn’t a lot of grace when other brands are mentioned and I didn’t/don’t like that. The oils wars can get so harsh. So we switched.
Crystal
I have recently also been made aware of the war between the essential oil companies. I am in this for the health benefits and not financial gain. I have shared my “oil story” with many people and many people now order from my web site. I refuse to ask anyone to “signup” as I signed up strictly to get the discount. Where has kindness and humility gone? If we as natural remedy seekers are so busy ripping each other apart how does that benefit anyone? It should never be about the almighty dollar because then it’s no better than the pharmaceutical companies. Find what’s best for you and move on!
Thank you for this enlightening article!
Be kind!
Diana
Exactly right Crystal! You have the right attitude when it comes to MLM involvement. If we find one we like and choose to use that happens to be distributed by MLM so be it. Just don’t bash other companies/people for their choice. It’s sad that it’s the EO/product that is getting the bad name when it’s the people causing the issue. It’s all about SHARING what EOs can do for us and getting people informed on healthier choices. Kudos!
Abby Razo
I am a Wellness Advocate! When people ask me . Oh, you sell oils? I reply , NO!.
I share my knowledge and experiences with essential oils and the rest is up to you. I do believe Heavenly Father created earth with many amazing things so that we could benefit. And above all. His will and power is stronger, potent, and it works better than any oil, doctor or technology.
Inspiring others with humbleness and caring for their needs is what makes this worth it for me. I do have an income but it doesn’t change my vision.
Cheryl Parker
Well said!
Trisha Van Liew
I have recently been researching like crazy about essential oils and different brands and have also found that i have started using a variety of brands!! right now through my church and family young living is burning like a wildfire so it was hard to get any objective answers.. so i went out and answered my own questions! i do think young living has great oils but do i think they are the only one.. nope! i have all the same brands in your picture by at least one bottle plus some from a company called native american nutritionals which i found had a great price and reasonable shipping! i hate to say that my bottom line when it comes to my oils is price but unfortunately it is.. i have bellies to fill as you said and my way of going all natural with oils is by not committing to any one company!
Michelle
The only thing I’d have to say to this is you have to be careful on which EO companies you are using.You want products that are genuine, free of synthetic chemicals, and of unmatched purity. So just make sure you truly know your product. That is way I have used Young living products for years. Yes it is pricey but I also am confident it these products that I can use them on myself, a baby to my animals and not have a problem with each and every product. I can safely diffuse, topically use or even digest too without a problem. So I’m willing to spend more on something I know will work for my whole family and I know what’s in the products that I’m buying. That’s where the big difference is.
Missy
If you are injesting and putting your oils on babies, then you are not properly educated. Essential oils should only VERY RARELY be injested and MUCH CAUTION should be used when putting on babies! True oils can be very dangerous when improperly used.
Susan
I ingest a specific brand of oils every day and am very healthy. I have been using them for over 8 years with no adverse effects. I don’t ingest every oil, some I smell and others I put on my skin because that is the best use for the specific oil. All of my oils come from one company, always have, always will. Quality matters.
Sarah
One does not have to apply an oil to the skin nor ingest it in order to receive the therapeutic benefits. The vapors of essential oils become internally used simply by entering the nasal passages because they cross the blood brain barrier as they enter the limbic system. Inhalation IS a great way to receive the benefits of essential oils. But, upon inhalation, the oils become internally utilized by the body system.
ALL essential oils should be distilled for the purpose of internal use based on that knowledge alone. So, if you are going to spend the money on something to benefit your body system and not cause it further harm with any solvents or cleaners used in the distillation process, then it is best to choose a product that will be of utmost benefit to your body system and not further cause harm and damage to the liver.
I appreciate the spirit of this post because we should all be loving one another in any way we can. But, all oils are not distilled and manufactured the same.
Some can do way more harm than good. So, while I appreciate the spirit of the post, the writer is showing her ignorance on how important grade of oil is and why it’s not just a pocketbook issue.
AND, a Google search linking to a blogpost (much like I found today) is NOT where to get your answers for which company is the best source.
Go to the company websites and look at what they are about.
And, see if they can answer these 12 questions:
1. Does their company own any farms on which to raise herbs for oils? And if they do, are they new farms on land formerly polluted with herbicides, pesticides, and chemicals that contain residuals from the past, or are they farming land that is clean, which has never been cultivated or has been untilled for at least the last 50 years?
2. Does their company have their own fully equipped testing laboratory to verify an oil’s composition?
3. Do they have anyone on staff with a trained nose who can analyze oils by their smell? (There are less than 200 people in the world with noses sufficiently trained to discern the chemistry of a fragrance.)
4. If their company purchases oils from outside suppliers, do they visit the distilleries and farms of those suppliers periodically to observe if the herbs are grown organically, i.e. without pesticides, herbicides, or chemical fertilizers?
5. Do they know if the grower has a testing laboratory on the farm to determine when the crop is at its peak for oil harvesting?
6. Do they know if the crops were actually harvested at their peak time and, if so, was there an inordinant delay in taking them to the still and into the cookers?
7. Do they know if their distillery personnel understand the art and science of distilling, exactly how to pack the cookers, how to administer the steam, how to maintain minimum temperatures and pressures throughout the cooker, and how to continuously monitor the process throughout distillation to make sure the oil produced contains all of its components in the proper proportions?
8. If their supplier makes a mistake in the distillation or harvesting processes that results in an inferior grade of oil, does that supplier sell the oil anyway or do they discard it?
9. Do they know if the the cookers in the distilleries of their suppliers have domed lids or cone shaped lids?
10. Do they know if their suppliers supplement the distillation process with solvents to exatract additional oil from the plant matter?
11. Do they know if their suppliers bottle their oils directly from the distillery without modifying the composition of the natural oil by adding anything or taking anything away?
12. Do they know if their company has tested their company’s oils side by side with competitor oils in the same lab to make a fair comparison? And if so, where is the data?
Diana
It’s kind of harsh to speak of ignorance on the writer’s part isn’t it? Erin doesn’t claim to be a expert and I must have missed the part where she implies quality doesn’t matter. YOUR view of the best is simply not HER view of the best quality for her and her family. I have my opinion as well. Because someone here doesn’t agree with me is fine with me. I used to have a favorite EO and would use only that one. It was the best I found then and fairly priced.
I use something different now though because my mind is open enough to know that times change, processes change, and options for great quality products change. If anyone here on this site is so close-minded to think their choice is tops and ALWAYS will be, is sadly going to miss a lot of great new things in life with that attitude. With advances in science and technology options change. Essential Oils as we know them today have not been around since the beginning of time. Once the only option for natural health care was dried herbs or herb infused oils for application (and still great options today). With advancements we now have these wonderful volatile oils for our health and wellness!
Being loyal to ONE name/brand forever just might find you missing out on something better for you and your family down the line. My family and their best is far above a brand name.
Erin
Thank you, Diana. I love this–>”Being loyal to ONE name/brand forever just might find you missing out on something better for you and your family down the line. My family and their best is far above a brand name.”
Diana
So my fortune cookie from last night’s dinner had this in it (this post and comments was the first thing to come to mind):
“If you never change your mind, why have one?”
How enlightening! 🙂
Erin
Hi Sarah…I don’t think I said it was *just* a pocketbook issue. 🙂 But it’s not hard to see why some of the MLMs are pricier with their pay structure. There are “high grade oils” that don’t cost and arm and a leg (like Plant Therapy, for example). I like your 12-step process. I encourage my readers to always do their own research!
DHM
Sadly, because of claims like this, I will never buy YL products. Their sales reps consistently give dangerous advice and use the oils indiscriminately and recommend that others do the same. This indicates to me that YL does not train their sales reps properly.
Salespitches are emotional and anecdotal rather than hard evidence and sound science.
Lexie
I couldn’t agree more with this post! I found out about the “EO wars” when I asked a harmless question about wanting to buy some oils in a FB group I’m in. I had no less than 5 emails RIGHT away trying to get me to purchase their oil which was the “best”! 🙂 haha! Anyway, my oils look much like yours. But I buy them in HUGE quantity because of how much I use with my products. My personal stash is a mixture of a lot of different brands.
tascha.p
I have to say—-after I got my ‘starter kit’ from one of those MLMs and jumped in to trying to sell–so I could PAY for them!!—I have really done it backwards in the research department. Thankfully it’s only been a few months and we have not harmed ourselves as of yet [at least nothing that wont likely be corrected within our bodies naturally as we further dilute them properly]… but I SOO wish I’d read an article like this a few months ago.
I may have still purchased my kit as it was a serious lot of great oils for a decent price…. but I would not have jumped in to selling them and now be wondering how proceed from here…. I’ve done a lot of sharing of what I’ve learned, thankfully not yet spouted anything too harmful, but there is SOOO MUCH info out there that is so scary-harmful the more I learn.
Anyway, thank you for this.
Holly Petrie
And ultimately? God is the Great Healer–with oils or without. Love this and God bless you!
Missy
I use essential oils but buy them from www.nativeamericannutritionals.com . They are non-MLM and a good 1/3 of the price of the MLM’s! The quality is extremely good, shipping is dirt cheap and customer service is tops. I get NOTHING for mentioning them, except for giving a good company some good word-of-mouth. I buy from them so that I DON’T get caught up in the oils wars! And they are soooooo much cheaper without all of the overhead and uplines. I’ve done my research and this is my brand. Oils are not worth fighting over. There is plenty to go around.
June
I spent a lot of time searching out the EO market too, and also decided on Native American oils. I like them and don’t have to worry about the extra costs/pressures that can come from the MLM companies!
Amy Talbott
Erin,
Thank you for this, I have found this issue to a challenge for me. We are on a VERY limited budget. I don’t have medical insurance for me nor my husband. We fall in the no man’s land because of our state laws and federal regulations. We simply can’t afford it.
I have fibromyalgia, Chronic Fatigue, and a yet undiagnosed autoimmune disease. The Doctors are watching me for Lupus, but the tests are not clear for Lupus yet, so they know I have an autoimmune disease, but they don’t know what yet. I have tried essential oils, and I have found some to be very useful, but I struggle with the cost. I simply can’t afford the “good” brands of oils. I was given a kit that was very helpful to our family, especially for me. But it didn’t last long.
I have really enjoyed your balanced approach to this topic. You have approached many issues like this one with grace and respect. I want to say thank you.
I have learned a lot from your site, and am looking forward to learning more.
Brittany G.
This was wonderful! So well written, and encouraging. Every doubt I’ve had with the EO’s were addressed! Fantastic job!
Blessings
~Brittany G.
Garnet
Very interesting post. I will disclaim that l am a distributor for one of the companies to which you referred. However, l only enrolled to be able to purchase the oils at a lower cost and to receive the monthly “freebie oils”. I do not use my distributorship to make a profit. Anyone who wants to purchase oils from me gets them at my cost, and l put them on my personal order so that thy don’t have to pay shipping. I will state that l did my research on these 2 compnies (as well as others), and that one (obviously the one l chose) is far superior to the other, which is why l chose to associate myself with them. What drew me to one over the other was the quality of he products. I did equal testing on single oils from both companies, and l found one company’s product to be much more effecrive than the other. Also in my research on essential oils in general, l found that essential oil companies can dilute an oil by up to 92% and still legally call it 100% pure essential oil. I found one company who had a label that said 100% pure lavender essential oil, yet on the ingredients list on the label, it listed lavender essential oil; pure almond oil. Thus, the oil in the bottle was not 100% pure lavender essential oil. There are so many ways that many industries are able to make us believe we are getting the best possible by inaccurate labeling. And it’s legal. Another oil of the same brand as the lavender was purchased in a 30ml bottle for $8. Again the label said 100% pure essential oil. The same amount of this same “100% pure” in one of the top 2 companies would cost $1,500! Not that l would EVER pay that much for ANY oil, it is a testament to the actual purity of the oil. So when they say that you get what you pay for, it’s the truth. I love sharing oils with people because l want to help them. In fact, l used many of my free products and purchased others to help a friend with cancer so that she didn’t have to pay for anything at all. I really am here to help people. But l don’t dare let anyone buy “cheap” oils because l want them to have a positive, therapeutically beneficial experience. I always offer to order for them. If they choose not to order through me, it’s no skin off my back because l stand to gain nothing but knowing l helped someone. However, l do tell them that if they use other brands, l do not necessarily stand by anything l have told them about essential oils and their uses because l understand the differences in purity cannot vouch for any other brand. To each their own. But l do spend quite a bit of money on essential oils. I have never liked medicines and have been so blessed to have been introduced to these amazing God given oils. I call my medicine cabinet God’s Pharmacy. So l know the power of certain brands over others, and l do wosh to share them with the world. I agree to an extent that we should put our faith in people over brands, but when the efficacy and potency of certain brands prevail over others, you can bet that’s where l will put my money.
Elaine
Do you have a web site? Your comment was so well-balance – I’d like to learn more
Diana
Very well said Garnet! Though not in every case, sometimes you DO get what you pay for with quality. I have read so much about how pure so many different oils are but many are only pure to the extent that have to be for that ‘qualification’. This leads me to doubt so many now. And saddens me that the level of purity does not have to be provided to the consumer when making choices for their families.
I am now part of a new line that has PROVEN their Clinical Grade… the highest quality oil that would be the only quality hospitals and universities would be able to use for clinical trials. And this proven quality IS made available to consumers. I’m proud of the integrity of the long standing company behind the new oils, Zija International, that has added this product to their other great health products. Ameo Essential Oils puts integrity before profits! 🙂
Whatever you choose, please insist on proof of purity and exactly what is inside your bottles. Then make the best choice for you and your family. I’ve used (and still have) a variety of EO brands. I’m not throwing them out. Some companies offer things other companies do not carry. But I will always choose what I can know for certainty is great quality for our families health needs. 🙂
Rachel
So glad you are a fellow amèo user. I am so pleased with the product. I am hearing many people say that science doesn’t make up for 20+years of experience. But I have to disagree with that statement. Because one knows the uses of oils which is very valuable science that proves a validity and purity of an oil is what is need first. It doesn’t matter how much experience you have in application if the product isn’t the best. I love that I can see each type of oil working in the cell from the proof available. And the testing that is available to look at for each batch of oils is amazing. Loved your article
Lori Bango
I am part of the new Ameo Essential Oil line as well and am excited to be a part of this new launch! I put together an article for education and hope that no matter what, we will each do our own research. This was a great article and so true. We should not be at war over this, but truly seeking out the best option for our family. Love your site!
Here is a link to the article: http://www.gnnamerica.com/brand-new-ameo-essential-oils-all-oils-are-not-created-equal-you-dont-want-to-miss-this/
Jennifer
As a “seller” for one of the two, I am grateful to be able to say that everyone in my groups tends to respond to the question about the two with, “I can only attest to my personal experience with x” and sticks to it. No trash talking, no bashing “them.” Actually, most seriously discourage saying anything ugly our engaging in arguments over the oils. Both companies have quality products handled in different ways. Try what you try, learn from the years of experience either company offers in their leaders over years of research and personal use, be healthy. Do what YOU are comfortable with. There’s room in the oil pool for us all!
Kylie
That is really refreshing to hear!
Kylie
AMEN to this post!! It’s such an insignificant issue to get so ugly about, but it happens all the time. I pray it stops and we can focus on HEALTH, which is why the EO love started in the first place. 🙂
Mindy
What a great article in many ways. I am a wellness advocate for one of the companies pictured. People may think we are little puppets, trained to do as we are taught, but I can honestly say I research everything before I help other people. Looking at research studies is a great way to expand ones knowledge. When I read studies like http://aromaticscience.com/the-benefits-of-internal-use-of-d-limonene/ that is not written by any affiliated person, I am confident in being able to use an actual pure EO internally. Not because my brand says we can, but because there is proof that it’s beneficial. I always help people see that they need to do what is best for them and encourage them to do their research before committing to something with anyone. I never fault others for using other brands and always get excited to talk healthier living then just pounding drugs into our systems. Heavenly Father gave us amazing bodies with amazing abilities to heal itself. Essential oils don’t prevent or cure ailments…our beautiful bodies do that. 🙂
Joy Lyn Gutzman
I am not sure just how independent AromaticScience is from the MLM. Their email address is at the MLM. I personally would not consider them to be third party.
Diana
I noticed that same thing Joy when I just happen to stumble upon that AromaticScience website for the first time a few days ago. That site belongs to DT. :-/
Jocelyn
AromaticScience IS run by DT, but if you look at the source of the studies they’re all either linked to pubmed.gov or another peer-reviwed/science journal source. That website is an effort to help make essential oil research a little bit easier; a one stop shop, if you will.
Diana
You are correct Jocelyn. And since my post on Sept 12th I have gone back and used that resource to search for research on certain topics. Regardless of who created it, I DO agree that it is one of the places we can gather some true scientific resources from. Thanks for helping to clarify it.
Elizabeth M
Thank you for this post! It is very refreshing to see a blog about essential oils that is not pushing a brand! Some of them go way to far in trying to build their downline by recommending unsafe eo practices. I actually am signed up under one of those MLM brands, but I have begun trying out different oils companies (after much research on the topic). I’m getting the same benefits, but spending a lot less money. Quality oils are not ONLY found in one of the two MLMs (as they would have you believe). Thank you again for this Grace Filled response to the EO wars!
[email protected]
Erin, I completely agree with this post! I have not been able to bring myself to sell essential oils for the same reason! If I am going to sell something I would have to be convinced that that particular brand was THE BEST thing for everyone to be buying. And I don’t think that every mama should have to feel that way. I certainly couldn’t bring myself to TRY to make her feel that way! I’ll be using oils from whichever brands I can afford (and if I want a particular blend I’ll be finding a non-pushy distributor.) Thanks for this post. It is perfect and what so many mamas need to hear.
Diana
MaryEllen I see where you are coming from. I have been turned off of a product simply because of a pushy person presenting it! I have never even considered signing up and selling essential oils because I was reading everywhere that “this is better than than, and the ONLY pure source available”. Not a good promotion practice if you ask me. Share why you use what you use, yes. But degrade other brands, NO. I have just (for the FIRST time in my life) signed on with a brand new line, launching publicly this month. But only after hearing about, reading more about… looking into the company behind the EOs… their philosophy and finally the verifiable and proven scientific clinical quality. But it’s not about a business or making money. It’s about how I feel about the product and never to belittle other companies or peoples’ choices. I have quite and array of oil brands now and use them and will continue to use the best quality available and affordable to me, regardless of the name on the bottle.
Leslie
Hi Erin, First time commenter here. Just wanted to thank you for this thoughtful and gracious post. There is way too much warring going on and not just with EO. Like-minded people fighting over issues that are just our opinion or personal preference (think worship styles in church, what Bible version, tattoos!) Just crazy. Can’t we just agree to disagree and let it go? I had already decided to buy this bundle from reading a different website, but I thought the fair thing to do was buy directly from you since you’d put in all the work to organize it. I was still hesitant because the “other” site had added a few extras. After reading this post I ordered through your site – it’s the whole grace thing. We need to extend grace to others – not be food police, not come across condescending or superior – which, sadly, is how lots of health/mommy/real food bloggers come across.
Thanks again for keeping it in proper perspective!
Erin
Thanks for commenting!!
Elaine
Finally! A Voice of Reason! I’ve been wanting to try EOs for the longest time; but the more research I did, the more confused I became. And some people can be sooooooo brutal about the other companies. I was just about to throw my hands up and quit. Thank you Thank you Thank you for showing us “grace”.
Elizabeth
PERFECT post!!! I buy EOs from multiple companies after seeing the brand wars and wanting to try different oils for myself, plus at both of the two big boys they are pricey, so if I did find an oil at a cheaper rate and still pure I was interested. At the same time, I did sign up for one of the big brands and have liked them to date, but because I am not a fan of how both companies promote their products and also that MLM isn’t the best biz model for me, I don’t focus on it as an income model, I use it to get the cheapest prices.
For example, we run a holistic families group on Facebook, and 90 percent of the time we have someone spam, attack others, or the likes it’s an essential oils MLM company distributor. Literally, that often. My admins have to block them regularly after they start attacking others or spamming without following the community guidelines. It makes me sad, and it’s straight up bad salesmanship and doesn’t make me want to associate with either brand, period.
On my husband’s health site, same thing: if he has someone guest post on and mention they use one of those two big brands, the other people start attacking him ( even though he allows BOTH to be sponsors or guest post, it’s crazy!) and why would anyone in business attack? That never gets sales, it is crosspromo and bad business.
I’m looking forward to continuously trying and researching oils, and hope that both of the big brands will train their reps to be more mature and considerate in their promotional endeavors, as this world could really benefit from EOs.
Marie
I would like to add that it is very important also to educate yourself with EO themselves. The most common thing I see people doing, is looking for information on the internet. There are so many books available to educate and if you can’t buy them…go to the library. I am a longtime user of EO(almost 20 years), and let me state that before the warring MLM companies ever came along and even the internet, EO was and still are available in whole/health food stores and small family owned drug stores. I started out buying mine at a local family owned drug store and I still do. I also get them from the whole/health food stores in my area. For the many years I have been buying EO at these places, they have never done me or my family wrong because I educated myself before using them.
Melanie
This is an excellent post and I completely agree with you. In the end. you do what’s best for you and your family and that’s what counts.
I’m a huge fan of essential oils. I’ve used them for a while now and they have helped me with my seasonal allergies and my son with his anxiety and focus related to autism. I will choose an essential oil over a medication if I have the option.
I wanted to let you know that I wrote a blog post about the essential oils I use and I referenced your post as the place to go and read about the issues surrounding different brands. I hope you don’t mind!
http://melaniesdsnitker.blogspot.com/2014/09/essential-oils-hobby-or-addiction.html
Thanks again for a great post!
Laura @ Green-Living Ladies
Very well written as always sweet Erin! Essential oils are amazing and I believe more people need to be using them in place of conventional medicine whenever possible–regardless of brand. Essential oils can help bring your health to a whole new level. Let’s end the essential oil wars and appreciate these amazing gifts of nature. These oils are revolutionizing our healthcare system slowly and it is incredible to be a part of this movement. http://www.greenlivingladies.com/2014/06/essential-oil-wars-cant-we-all-get-along.html
Tammy
I’m sad to see that Plant Therapy essential oils are not represented. They are not a MLM. Their prices are so affordable. Their oils are pure & guaranteed. They offer free shipping, a 90-day satisfaction guarantee on all products, not just the oils. Robert Tisserand is a consultant. They have a one of oils specifically for young kids. In all my research & my EO education, I have not found another brand match what Plant Therapy offers.
Sarah
I used to use one of the expensive MLM brands, I was a newbie to oils and I used the oils like they told me to use them. My baby girl had such a bad reaction from it. I felt terrible and I was very upset that they didn’t mention almost anything about safety until after something bad happened. And keep in mind that this wasn’t one bad rep, this seemed to be common practice among them. That is when I started doing my research and now that I am more educated in EOs I will stay far away from the MLM companies. I found Plant Therapy and I have had better results using their oils than the expensive ones I used before. I love that they educate their costumers on EOs safety I love their Kids Safe line of EOs, and their costumer service is second to none. And it is a third of the price. I loved this post but I have to disagree with a few things. First, “high end oils” does not mean expensive MLM brands, in fact in a third party testing done recently they tested worse than cheaper brands. Their oils are more expensive because they have a whole bunch of pockets to fill before the oils get to the consumer. Companies like Plant Therapy sell directly to the consumer to pass the savings to you, they don’t even sell wholesale. And second, there are a whole lot of companies out there that make their own blends, you are not limited to buying only single oils if you don’t buy from MLM companies.
Deb
I am not into oils and my dh is a medical professional, so I will not use this forum to push an alternative brand. 🙂 I am sure that there are many varieties of oils that serve many wonderful purposes. What I find ironic is that people are so convinced that their product is the end all and are willing to hurt others or tear them down to prove it. The implication by selling oils is that one is concerned with others’ health and well-being yet they have no problem with destroying them in a blog or Facebook post thereby harming their “well being.” I would never do an MLM because I philisophically disagree with them but I would never do oils because the salespeople are pushy and hostile and I could not support anything with representatives who act like that and by affiliating myself with them would be grouped as one of them. Let’s stop fighting the mommy wars…breastfeeding or bottle, preschool or not, vaccines or not, public, private or home school, courtship or dating, hymns or choruses and now Essential oils….REALLY?!?! There are so many tired, hurting, lonely moms who can barely afford the necessities, let’s lay off the guilt and our agenda and lavish them with God’s love and offer a day of babysitting or a home cooked meal instead of an invitation to a party to spend money they don’t have. Let’s have true fellowship centered on Christmas not on the latest product.
Deb
Christmas not Christmas
Deb
CHRIST……ARGH
Rachel
I agree! We are to quick to bash one another for choices. I feel like there’s moderation in everything. It all has it’s place. Eastern and western medicine. Thanks for that
Rachael
I was wondering if you could give me more info for using oils for an ingrown hair!? My husband has one and it is out of control! I am mortified to try to get in there and I told him to use lavender on it but was wondering if I should use some lemon also to help keep it clean?
steph
This is a great post and a much needed post! While I do side with one of the main oil companies and I do sell them, I do not want to get into bashing other companies. Yes, I have done my research and feel confident I made the best choice for my family, but I really want to run a grace filled business and life and not get caught up in all the garbage out there and the fighting and the he said she said. So this is a refreshing post.
I also run a frugal blog, so I totally get why some people would need to buy a cheaper oil. I do. believe me. However, I have also realized that all oils are not created equal. But, yes, food should go in tummies first and the mortgage needs to be paid first. and good nutrition, not junk, needs to be put in tummies first. And if you only have a few $$ and need to start with a cheaper oil, then so be it and do what you can.
I will say however, since joining the company I joined, I have been able to earn free oils through their rewards program, and because it is an mlm, I have been able to help other people learn about oils, truly help their families with certain amazing oil blends, that can’t be found anywhere else, and also earn an income, which not only pays for my oils, but pays for my food bills. so, it is possible for someone to be grace filled, not be pushy, and get these expensive oils for a minimum price. if that is what someone wants to do.
BUT, I get it, there are a lot of reps for oil companies (on both sides) or reps of other things, that are pushy, and salesy, and obnoxious and misleading. And that is unfortunate, and that is why I am thankful for posts like this.
I would like for us all to live in peace… those of us on any of the oil debate sides… do the best for your family with what you can. but know there are options if you want to earn your oils free, you just have to find the right rep to help you do this.
i also like what you said, about choosing specific reps, not just the company. because I think that is important. Anyone can join a company, and take whatever approach they want, it’s a free country. If someone from any company is being pushy or obnoxious. run away. If they are telling you to use this oil, without educating you on how to use it, and dilute and etc run away
and always do your own research for your family. I like that you made that point
Anyway, I think this is a needed post. and even though I slightly disagree with a few small points, it is a great post and a MUCH NEEDED post in today’s times… I hope it helps and impacts other oil reps, to try to live in peace and not be bashing each other.
I also learned something from your other post, and I need to now go google it. But can you tell me more about elderberry syrup. Do you give it to your kids every day? what does it taste like? I am really interested and want to try some. So if you could share more of how you use elderberry syrup, that would be great.
Thanks so much. I will have to go like you on facebook now!!!
Sheryl
My main complaint is with the “Certified” oils…there is no such thing! It is only trade mark…you can see it here http://trademarks.justia.com/862/96/certi5-86296747.html
This new brand, Ameo, is another competitor. They all have their good points, but how are we to decide in the midst of “war”?
Diana
Sheryl I never used doTERR or Young Living oils before. I have at least three other brands in my home now though and was never “brand loyal”. The reason being, as you said there was no more proof of one having a better/higher “therapeutic grade” than several other brands. You simply had to trust and believe the word of the MLM representative/distributor. I’ve also never been part of a MLM before. I always felt you had to believe in and be passionate about a product for that. I’ve bought Tupperware from a direct sales person, and Mary Kaye. Those products served a purpose for me, but I wasn’t passionate about them and never would have tried to sign up and sell them myself.
Ameo has changed all of that. You don’t have to ‘just believe’ what a distributor says. The new line of oils has now launched and everything that can be known about them is out there for the public to see. EVERY bottle provide a lot number you can go to Ameo.com and “The Ameo Difference” section lets you enter a Lot # from your bottle and see the full standard industry purity testing results. But you can see more. Ameo’s $10 million reasearch efforts (backed by our parent company Zija International, look them up) has resulted in new science and patented technology that literally SHOWS you there the purity of the oils as the permeate human cells. Processes available to Ameo alone (patented) takes the testing further than any other company and verifies the Clinical Grade Standard. Our VP of Research, Dr Joshua Plant (Harvard PhD), through partnerships with a biomedical company has established the clinical benchmark for oils that are used in hospitals, clinics, universities for clinical studies.
Dr Plant uses the established science and technology to test every batch of oils received. Even IF all other industry standard testing passes (that others would use to determine a ‘therapeutic grade’) Ameo will NOT use a batch if the final testing does not result in a high level of purity that allows it to visible permeate the cells and be actively working inside them. They have refused batches for this reason alone.
Dr Daniel Penoel, internationally recognized French physician and well known for many years in the Aromatherapy world, was the keynote speaker at the official launch at the Zija convention last week. He would not even agree to speak or be affiliated in any way with Ameo, until he himself met with Dr Plant and saw ‘the research’ for himself. He was blown away. He said that Ameo’s quality, research and line of oils would “revolutionize the essential oils industry…. it’s about time!”
Only after learning the real difference and for the first time physical, visible proof did I want to be a part of Ameo and their ground-breaking advancements. I encourage you to visit a few sites and learn for yourself the difference. My site has more information. But if you go to ameo.com and click on “Ameo Difference”… enter this lot # 34266. Just one example from a bottle. All batch test results are there and the video recorded of the Cell Active & Permeable purity can be seen. Don’t trust just the word of anyone. Ameo is transparent to the oil user. As any company should be (but unfortunately most are no transparent) But no other can prove their quality and purity to the Clinical Grade degree as Ameo can. It’s no wonder many are switching, as users and distributors, from some of the top names out there. Ameo truly IS different. Demand the best for you and your family! 🙂
Diana
One more thing…. that link you shared referencing “Certified” and trademarks. Don’t confuse that with trademarks for “Certified Therapeutic” grade that doTERRA oils uses when marketing their oils. That particular trademark link you shared (http://trademarks.justia.com/862/96/certi5-86296747.html) is exclusive to Améo’s Trademark issued for their “CERTI-5” essential oil quality testing procedures and includes processes patented to Améo and not used by any other essential oil company. These CERTI-5 process confirm and show oil users that each batch of oils are cell active and permeable, another thing exclusive to Améo that no other essential oil company can do. More about our exclusive CERTI-5 Difference can be found here… http://ameo.com/media-center/studio-z/am%C3%A9o-difference … If you still have questions you’d like answered then please don’t hesitate to contact m! Blessings!
Susan Eaton
I agree with this article. I am the type that uses different brands for different reasons. Just yesterday I made laundry soap with a friend and she had those four brands in her container. We used a little of each. For some things I use one brand if it’s something that doesn’t get infused or other brands chosen because I like the quality and how it works for my family. So it just depends what I need and what it’s being used for. Hope that makes sense. I have NOW, Auria Cacia and Young Living in my house. 🙂
P.S. I have tried to email several people about the bundle I ordered and haven’t been able to read any of these ebooks that I paid for. Please someone contact me .
Tyreese Joseph
In full disclosure, I am a rep for the one of the aforementioned companies. The first thing I’d like to say is, that refusing to use a particular brand because of uneducated reps making unaccurate claims or suggesting unsafe advise is a little like like refusing to drive a Honda because a drunk driver got into one and killed someone. Bad reps do not equal bad product.
Also, I’d like to speak on the cost difference. I think the term MLM instills an automatic distaste in people, however, it is actually a valid business model. Yes, you will pay more, because in general (regardless of claims of not having to sell), the prices are set with the idea that they will be compensating numerous people along the chain. So to compare MLM prices or network marketing prices with in-store brands or non MLM structured companies isn’t really comparing apples to apples.
Quality is absolutely imperative and I’m sure no on disagrees on that point. Many of us who have turned to natural alternatives to balance our body systems are hyper aware of the onslaught of chemicals we are exposed to everyday, so we are not going to willingly use natural products that are tainted with chemicals. But at the same time, we can also agree that a shirt regardless of where you purchase it will cover you in the same manner, but we will also probably agree that a Wal-mart shirt is not of the same quality as Gap clothing, even though they originate from the same foreign location. The point I’m making is that manufactures will always decide whether they are going to invest in stricter standards (incidentally, not saying that those standards will improve the product substantially, remember the shirt – they both do the same job) that will give them an edge over a competitor or to woo a particular type of consumer. My marketing professor teaches us that we are people of habit and convenience, meaning that once a person is sold on a product, and assuming the product continues to meet their needs, they are unlikely to look into a competing product. Think Coke and Pepsi, Toyota and Honda, Crest and Colgate. I guess the point is so much of the debate is personal choice and trashing competitors is a sure way to expose your uncertainty about the value/quality of your own product, it should speak for itself.
Personally, I try to shield my team from inaccuracies that abound in fb forums and online by educating using neutral sources. In fact, my team page on fb is secret, because I don’t want my team contaminated by misinformation, not even from my upline. I do not make medical claims nor promote that E.O.’s are in any way magical or mysterious. In fact, maximum benefit will require other lifestyle changes that have nothing to do with oils. I do not tell people to come off their medications. My beliefs is that E.O.’s do not cure, but instead help restore balance to support your body in doing what it needs to do. I refute statements like “E.O’s have been around for thousands of years” (nope, those were herbal infusions), and that they are non-chemical alternatives (no, in fact they are JUST chemicals lol), or “you’re not allergic, you are detoxing. Just keep using it” (ugh). I also teach that proper dilution of a 15ml bottle will give you at least 750ml (a wine bottle) when properly diluted. But I do not apologize for choosing the MLM model because it works for me, and I get a little upset at being lumped in with every other distributor because of their bad behavior. Nor do I want to be looked at as a pariah because I sell oils and receive commissions. No one believes that buying $50 tennis actually cost $50 to make 🙂
In closing, I’d like to say thank you to Erin. It’s refreshing to open conversation without people bashing one another (mostly) and having intelligent conversations which will ultimately boil down to choice. Whether someone chooses my company or not I am 1) happy they are looking for alternatives to the toxins we are bombarding our bodies with 2) and want them to be safe and do their research and find out what will actually fit their lifestyle, finances, and goals.
My business model does not work well with people who regret their choice or max out cards trying to get tons of product. And even a person is on a budget, I can help them make selections that are affordable if they love the product. Thanks for reading!
Happy oiling!
Lesley Chachere
I have researched several companies as well as tested several brands head to head bc I am a scientist and don’t take people at their word. I hate pyramid company sales. Even though the information is out there people don’t go to the training and learn about their product. When it came time to decide what I chose to use on myself and my family I went with my own research and chemical testing I did myself of each brand. I refused to rely on their product research, statements, papers, and independent studies. I tested over 20 brands of the same oil and found a wide range of purity even by those claiming real 100% purity. That is how I chose the brand that controls quality assurance from growing the plants, distillation, testing, and packaging. They do it all with no sourcing from other companies. Yeah their are wars and hearsay but I wanted to see for myself. I found they were the only company that truly sold what they labeled. I don’t sell for any company. I don’t market them. I am signed up as a distributor to get discounts. Most of the time I give away samples to my friends when they need help with certain issues. I do believe a company can get too big for the britches so to speak. They get cocky. I can only go by my personal tests for quality. My personal experiences of health and benefits. I am so thankful God made these oils available to us to allow him to heal our bodies. 10 years of hives gone. As far as the FDA goes, I don’t put much faith or stock in anything they stand behind or support. They tend to go wherever the money lines their pockets and not much about quality.
Nki
Can you email me what brand you are talking about? I don’t know how to get rid of my hives. Email: [email protected]
tammy
Based on what she wrote, I already know she’s talking about Young Living oils because they’re the only ones who claim that they have complete control over all the oils from the growing stage to the bottling stage. They’re also one of the companies that received a letter from the FDA because they’re making claims they can’t back up and don’t want to go into pharmaceuticals even though the claims they’re making are drug related.
Rachel
I think a whole lot of people missed the entire point of your post. Lol. Sigh.
Thanks for being a voice if reason.
Have a blessed day!
Rachel
*of
Erin
Thanks, Rachel!
Christina
The oil wars are not between companies, but between quality, truthfulness, and integrity. The big 3 MLMs are telling people blatantly false information, causing harm, and killing people and animals. Grace isn’t being kind, it’s telling the truth; none of which these companies do.
Real aromatherapists take years to learn their oils, the human body, and a little 90 day course is just not going to turn you into someone who can use oils safely.
Here’s the quality be-all, end-all for quality oils: Does your product come with the MSDS sheet? If not, your oil is likely to be crap. Good oils are proud of how pure they are and will produce the MSDS with sale (actually, it’s require when the oil is pure). If you don’t know how to read it, take the required courses in biochemistry and physiology.
Debbie T
I totally agree with your post. I only buy from brand REP I know and trust. Period. And I use a wide variety of brands, as well. I’ve read more online about the “claims” and don’t just trust whatever a brand says anyway. I go with what WORKS. I have favored a brand before and then was given a larger, less expensive bottle of the same EO type and IT worked better for its intended purpose. I do think, like a commenter wrote already, that some of the BLENDS by brands are fantastic and I could never come up with a comparable blend on my own and those are the benefits of ordering from a brand representative.
The problems you addressed in your post became evident in the comment section, and it’s really terribly sad. But it’s human nature – cuz it’s the same kind of the thing we see played out in Scripture in many ways in many different things. GRACE is the answer. I applaud your post!!!
Erin
Thank you, Debbie! I have been taking a little break from the site the past few weeks and am just now realizing the comments got out of hand. 🙁 I am reading them–sadly–now.
Laurita
Many of your readers posts are a complete turn off after reading this article. You went to great lengths to make sure there would be no more division regarding brands, and yet somehow your readers didn’t get the point at all.
Could it be that they didn’t read the article and just want to give their opinion because they, after all, have more wisdom than God! Perhaps they are jaded by marketing hype received by the grossly expensive brands that only want to make the almighty dollar!
These companies, in their marketing strategies, are no better than companies like Kraft and Kellogg’s when it comes to hype and downright deceit to get you to buy their product, so wisdom is essential here. I applaud the writer’s intent, but obviously many of your readers have shown that your opinion isn’t worth very much to them. I loved it, and completely agree with you. We need more people promoting harmony and unity, not to mention maturity.
Erin
Thank you so much, Laurita. I truly appreciate your kind response. I hate the battle. 🙁 And I do believe that some companies have “risen to the top” above others for no other reason than savvy marketing and hype.
Tiffany DeOs
I just signed up with Young Living because of some of the blends and other products that can help me with my fibro conveniently but I totally agree with you. I have told my aunt about some of my results with oils and she said she couldn’t afford them so I told her how she could get a cheaper brand at a local health food store. All I want is to help others feel better and get the blends and special products I need at a discount. If someone I share with has to go a less expensive way for now that’s fine by me. This is a fabulous article and much needed!
Erin
Thanks, Tiffany! I hope the oils help with your fibro!
Lori Allaman Hanken
I am deeply disappointed to see all the ignorance out there and here in the replies. This was a well thought out post and there is no need to bash other companies ever. Fear and ignorance prevail.
Saying to stay away from companies that don’t follow the FDA rules is uneducated at best. This is the same FDA that approved Aspartame. Claiming that people are dying from using essential oils? Did they learn how to use oils safely? Did they do any research? How many people are dying from medications or even from surgeries that have gone wrong.
Most of the “articles” you read out there are from amateurs and are taken as “gospel truth”. There are reported issues but with the varying quality of oils and ingredients you can’t always compare apples to apples. If there is an reported issue with injury or death you have to look at the specific oil and the manufacturer. I know there are other good quality oil companies out there besides the MLM’s but everyone has the right to make their own decisions.
As others have said, do your own research, make educated choices and don’t believe everything you read! Do what you can afford for your family and be proud that you are making healthy and natural choices.
Erin
I agree that many articles out there are not from professionals and are many times from the oils reps themselves who would be hard-pressed to not be biased.
heidi grasse
so, then where is the very best place to accurate, truthful, solid research on all essential oils?
heidi grasse
*find*
Juliet
naha.org is a good place to start 🙂
Janey
Good job but I am puzzled why you don’t include Mountain Rose Herbs. I have chosen to stick with their products rather than the direct sales of doTerra. Mountain Rose is a great option and I highly recommend the above all other oils.
Erin
Hi Janey! I would love to try Mtn. Rose Herbs but just haven’t had the opportunity to yet! I purposely didn’t name any companies in the post, but I just pictured what I happen to have in my stash. I have been gifted the “big name” brands and have purchased the others with Vitacost credits.
mandy
Amen! I am sick to death of all the back and forth and friends using fb to try to sell me stuff. I purposefully use Native American Nutritionals simply to avoid the ‘wars’ within the multi-level marketing companies..
Spicy Ellen Thomas
Certi 5, clinical strength, cellular level. We go to such lengths to watch what we put in our bodies when in fact what we put on our bodies absorb into our system. Education is key. I’m new to the essential oils but not to nutrition. My first source is still putting the greatest source of nutrition into my body every day from Moringa Oleifera. The oils are just for extra support. Very disturbing reading the posts on here. The greatest command….love one another. Help others reach better health. Proverbs 3:27. Do not withhold good from those to whom it is due, when it is in your power to act.
Jessica
Loved this blog. This is exactly how I feel about essential oils! I sell Ethically Hand Made Goods and do a lot of health/weallness shows, I did one last year where one of the big oil companies were there, I chatted with them at the start but as the day went on and the 2-3 reps kept bashing the other company to people who would show the slightest bit of interest at the table, as a fellow consultant I found it in very poor taste to do that. It also got me curious about the two large companies, so when I got home I googled them both, what I found did put me off of both companies. Lawsuits, fighting between reps, a lot of negativity, I wanted to stay away from any of that!
Katie Sullivan
I found this article to be manipulative at its best. You make the two main oil companies out to be the bad guys (let me tell you, know rep from either company I’ve ever known feels a parent should choose oils over food; that is just ridiculous), and you manage to plug a sponsor who does sell them, AND you end with an ebook that is an affiliate. A grace filled answer? you are doing nothing but trying to make yourself look better on the backs of others.
carla
I want to know what you used to treat an ingrown hair? I occasionally get them and would like to know how to treat them at home. Thanks!
Juliet
I don’t know what the author has used and I’m sure there are plenty of great options but I have successfully used tea tree for this. First, I applied warm salt water for 5-10 minutes then followed with a drop of tea tree diluted in fractioned coconut oil. Worked like a charm.
Michelle
Thank you! What a powerful post filled with truth. Even though I am part of 1 of the 2 large companies I couldn’t agree more. So tired of the bashing instead of blessing! There is more than enough to go around! The reality is that The Lord God is my healer ultimately…am so grateful for the gifts and tools He has given us as His kids! Blessings on you and your blog!!!
Lisa @ This Pilgrim Life
Thank you for sharing such an honest approach to something that can be so divisive. All of the {incredibly} strong opinions on either side can be really daunting to someone who is unfamiliar with oils or who is just learning how to use them. (Me). We have some oils now but I definitely see us doing more of a varied approach when it comes to which oils we use. And, like you said, ultimately we are dependent on the Lord for our health and there are often more pressing financial needs than top of the line oils.
Kelly
After reading the comments to your well-written blog, it is clear many totally missed the point. I did not and I agree 100%!!
Tracy
I recently signed up with one of the companies mentioned on this post to receive the discount. The reason for starting on EOs was different ailments that my family as well as myself have. They vary from high blood pressure, asthma, allergies, plantar fasciitis, heart problems and a child w/ kidney disease. These oils have helped tremendously…one example, my husband had surgery that didn’t even help his fasciitis, but the oils have. I personally haven’t take a single allergy pill for a month now after living off of them daily. Everyone’s different…what may work fine for one may not work as good for another. There shouldn’t be a battle or war of EOs…whatever works best for YOU! God bless you and I pray you all find the best oils for yourselves 😉
Gail
Great article! Oils are fairly new to me but I have steered away because everyone thinks their’s are better and everyone else’s is trash! Confusing who is best. I do have a few, over the counter bottles of oils and they have been okay. You removed the “guilt” of thinking I was a terrible person for not using one particular brand over another. (Though, I hope to graduate upwards some day.) Sad that many used your informative article as a platform to promote their own business. I think the term would be leaches???!!!! Shame on them!
Lin
I also use one of the top two EO. My past is how much it helped me at the end of my chemo to get healthy so fast. I wish I had heard about it long before then. I am still using them on family for colds flu fever and all else. really helps my special needs kid. Everyone needs to remember that the FDA is concerned with $$$$. That is why these companies cannot say, ” heal, cure, etc.” Something does need to be done about the statements of PURE. There are so many “cheap oils” that are not worth spending your hard earned dollars on. Some excellent oils are pricier. Do the research and try to buy the most pure, it doesn.t help if there are additives, or barely and pure oil in these other products. God Bless!
Shelley
I was curious to read this article because months ago I was searching to find a good EO company to purchase from. I don’t care to buy from a MLM do to their mark up. In my search I found Plant therapy. I have had great success from Plant Therapy. I have learned a lot from their Safe Recipe Group on facebook and their web blog. There are aromatherapists on the site to answer questions. The group uses different brands other than Plant Therapy. It is intended to give safe information along with sharing recipes. When I chose that company a few things that I discovered was to look for the botanical Latin name to be listed on the bottle. Free shipping and annual sales in a plus too.
Virginia
As with any “war”, no one is 100% right! As you recommended, doing your own research, coming to your own conclusions and decisions as to how to use EOs, is your responsibility. As soon as someone said, NEVER ingest, I started my research. With any big company, it is part of marketing to tell you how much better their product is that everyone else! It is up to you, as a consumer, to question that and decide for yourself! If we all believed what we were told, there would only be FORD autos driving around and so many more products would have no competition. We were told by drug companies that generic meds were not as good as brand name. Now, we almost all use generic! Maybe it won’t be long before Consumer Reports takes on EOs!! Use your brain to learn what you can about EOs or any other thing in your life, so you can make an informed decision.
Vicki
I don’t even know how I got to this post but I will be following you going forward. I am a Grandma looking for natural ways to keep the grandbabies happy and healthy. I also suffer from Fibromyalgia and a compressed spine thanks to a drunk driver.
I applaud you for recognizing that God is the Great Healer. (any replies to this post which disagree, please move on. When my search began back in Sept. when my first GRANDdaughter was born, I have received some crazy emails from a major seller who seem to think they are the top do. 🙂
There is no way I can afford those prices and I have even had reps from the top two tell me if I really cared about my GRANDbabies I would purchase the best.
I just wanted to say that I may have stumbled upon your blog but I will me staying! What wonderful posts you have!
Christine
Hello, I too loved this article! I teach about essential oils because i use them extensively and have had very good results and healing from them and in my classes that I have done I teach with the essential oil brand that I personally use but I have not liked how people bash other people because of the brand they use. I started out just using the oils for myself and family and putting them in my homemade salves and lotions then family and friends wanted to learn how to use the essential oils I was using because they saw that I was benefiting from them. My family isn’t on insurance so I try to keep them as healthy as we can. I have had people come and ask me what oil brand to use and I tell them you go with the one you feel the most comfortable with, this is what I use and love but I know that other people are on a budget and cannot afford them so go with what you feel is best for you and your family. I love learning and teaching about essential oils but yes, I don’t like the bashing that goes on. It’s like a religion, just because someone is catholic or protestant etc. and you don’t agree with it doesn’t mean you have to go saying bad about them.
Sarah
I loved this post but I have to disagree with a few things. First, “high end oils” does not mean expensive MLM brands, in fact I’ve had better results using a more affordable blend than when I used one of the “big two”. Their oils are more expensive because they have a whole bunch of pockets to fill before the oils get to the consumer. Companies like Plant Therapy sell directly to the consumer to pass the savings to you, they don’t even sell wholesale. And second, there are a whole lot of companies out there that make their own blends, you are not limited to buying only single oils if you don’t buy from MLM companies. My favorite blends are Plant Therapy line designed for kids, created by Robert Tisserand himself.
Cheryl
Thank you for a thoughtful post about yet another front in the mommy wars. The enemy loves to cause division and strife, especially among the body of believers, and it’s clear that some do not recognize the damage they are doing. I love all your blog posts!!
Mia
Thanks for sharing this. I am a “believer” when it comes to EOs, but I’m new to it all, and I’ve been trying to decide the best route. I am going to look into that course offered by Vintage Remedies, if it’s still available, as I know this was posted a while ago. Thanks for your honest look….and just as a “funny note,” it sure is humorous to see that your article is talking about the very “oil wars” that seem to bubble up right into the comments from your readers! LOL.
**Please note to any EO reps who might read my comment. PLEASE DO NOT EMAIL OR CONTACT ME concerning your product. I have plenty of friends who are reps, and I am going to do my own research. Thanks so much for your gracious understanding! 😉
E.L.
I did some research on the essential oils and I refuse to pay top dollar to anyone selling these that makes loads of money using the pyramid method. There are way too many companies out there that operate like that and that is why the huge price differences! Never ever want to purchase things from people who make a cut and then someone above them makes another cut etc. etc. So , bottom line it’s not always in the price so do loads of research before buying from someone who is charging you $70.00 and up for a bottle of oil. They aren’t worth that much!!!!!
Diana
I felt exactly the same as you E.L….. once upon a time. However after a lot of my own research (& prayer about my decision) on quality of the oil, integrity of the company behind them (yes I search for what I can find the owner behind it all) I see things differently.
First I would not tell any user of a company I don’t choose that their choice is wrong or bad. Everyone has to make the best choice for them. I have used/tried a few different brands. My choice now after all my research and Visual proof of the highest quality I could find… Clinical Grade… I made my choice to use only Améo brand essential oils. They happen to be one of those “pyramid” companies you refer too. And the bashing of ANY MLM company is ridiculous if your basing your decision off of that alone.
Think about what MLM companies provide… Mary Kaye has great cosmetics, Tupperware has been a household name for MANY years, and Thirty One bags are something I LOVE! Yet ALL those… and more great companies… operate on a pyramid as you refer to it. It’s Direct Sales… the companies put their ‘advertising dollars’ toward the incomes of the average person who loves their products and wants to share them with others, instead of in printing, tv, radio like a lot of stores do. And I personally know Direct Sales Representatives of all of those companies I listed, good, honest christian people, who work their businesses full time, helping provide for their families and can work hours that allow them to be home with their young children more. Unless you oppose ALL direct sales companies for any products, simply because how they operate, then it’s hard to pick out an essential oils company doing the same thing and imply they are doing shoddy business.
I have never in my 46 years chosen to sell or be a distributor for any direct sales company, though I love, buy and use various direct sales products. I only chose to join Ameo in such a way because I am convinced they are the best I can find for my family. My distributorship gets me the discount to buy the oils, earn free ones AND help my family and friends get better deals as well because I work a full time public job if I want to help a sister get a great product cheaper I can assist her with that if I so chose. If that’s not what you choose, then that’s okay too. But let’s not make MLM or Direct Sales a bad thing when it’s a legitimate means of family support for a LOT of families, as much as anyone’s choice of a way to subsidize their families. 🙂
Anne
I don’t want to contribute to the EO arguments, of which I have been on the lower hand of before, having people say unkind things to me for a simple opinion. People can be very defensive about their EO. That being said, I have also tried and used a variety of brands, as well a high end brand that in the end I had to stop using because I couldn’t afford to remain a distributor so I could get whole sale prices. About then my midwife introduced me to a EO company that is different from the rest and very high quality. You don’t have to have a membership. Just get on and order. They are extremely high quality but a lot cheaper than other high end brands because they do not take a profit from their oils sales. They created their business to make therapeutic grade EOs affordable for everyone. They are a family owned, Christian business with wonderful costumer service. I have emailed them questions several times and had them answered right away. I tell you this not to add another brand to the argument but to tell you about a wonderful resource that has made EO affordable for me and many people I know. They do not exists to be in competition with the other brands.
http://heritageessentialoils.com
Diana
I have referred to their website a number of times and they are one of a few that I was very impressed with what I learned about the owners as well.
Mama Curls
I don’t know if this has been mentioned, (there have been so many comments!) but a wise and spiritual woman I met a while back was talking about the eo wars and said that with the lawsuits and fighting between the major companies they have brought a curse upon their oils. Because of this woman’s background and experience I do not doubt her. Obviously you only have some stranger’s word to go on, but it is something to think about and consider.
Julie
I got sucked into a MLM. Drank the koolaid but didn’t settle right. Kept researching. The I found my “aaha” moment. This article. http://www.learningabouteos.com/index.php/2013/08/10/3rd-party-test-results-master-list/
3rd party testing that showed many different oils were in compliance (and some not) I was set free and now use a bunch of different oils. So thankful that God has given us so many things that can help us.
Cheri H.
Just wanted to say that this is the best blog post I’ve read in a LONG time. Thank you for sharing your perspective and encouraging folks to educate themselves and make the best decision they can for their families. Best not to get sucked into the drama! 😉
Erin
Thanks so much, Cheri!
Misty
Ladies I am sitting here reading all of these Comments and I was Skeptical as well. I had tried Several different Brands according to Price instead of Quality and found a Big Difference in Both. I used DT and thought they were the best EVER until I was introduced to AMEO. Hands down the Only PROVEN CLINICAL STRENGTH Oils on the Market, they have Met all of the FDA’s Guidelines to verify that statement. These Oils are not only Stronger but in a lot of cases are Cheaper or very much so in Comparison to the other Top Brands. I have an 8 year old who was brought up with DT and I also have a 5 month Old who will never be touched with anything other than Ameo. I can tell a ton of Difference from switching my 8yr old to Ameo as well. Please do your Research and make sure these Companies can back up what they are Stating. There is a huge difference in Clinical and Theraputic and I certainly want the best for my Family and the most Cost Effective. Feel free to Contact me and I will be happy to send you to my website. Thanks ad may God Bless each of you and your Families.
Erin
I’ve never heard of these oils and will have to check them out!
Cheryl Parker
I’m just now reading all these comments from the last year or so. So glad you are checking out Ameo!
Christy
I am irritated with the comments on this post. I am a huge promoter of getting oils into the hands of those that need them. I have used many oils throughout my years of trying to live a healthier life. Currently I only use one of those two oils brands that everyone seems to argue over. I did a ton of research when I finally had money to ensure I was using a great brand and chose the one I am with. I am not even going to say which one it is because that will just cause someone to argue with me.
My point in commenting is that I have had to purchase lower quality oils so I could receive some health benefit from them without causing my family to starve.
Do I think the oils I am currently using are superior to those I used before? Yes!
Would I have used them then if I had known about them? No! I simply could not afford it.
Will I use another brand now? No! I am very confident in the oils I am using now.
Do I force my brand choice on other? No! I do sell the oils I am currently using. However, I give away more oils than I make money and when it is necessary, I will tell someone how to get inferior oils so they can reap benefits (even if the benefits are not as great as using the oils I am currently using).
Have you figured it out? My driving factor is not money or loyalty to a brand. My driving factor is the health of those I love, my family, my friends, my community. If I saw you standing in line at the grocery store with an obvious ailment, I would offer you something. It might be an oil sample or just a little education. It won’t likely include a stance on a brand. If someone asks me the brand I prefer or sell, obviously I tell them.
The oil community should be more about making our world a healthier place than about brand competition!
Diana
Well worded response Christy! That’s how I feel. I also pay more for mine from Ameo (once upon a time I couldn’t) and feel my choice is the best I can find out there for me and my family. HOWEVER…
I had a supply of about 4 different brands of oils that I bought what I could, when I could from where I could get them at the time. When I switched to the ones I use now and plan to continue to use, I gave all I had to my own sister, who needs them and cannot afford what I buy. To ever suggest someone else’s choice is a poor one is very unfair when there are a lot of things sometimes that drive it. As it is unfair to ‘bash’ those who choose to use something more expensive if that’s what they feel is better.
A phrase I’ve started applying to a number of areas in my life lately: “Better, not best” and that means always striving to do better and not beat up myself or others if what I use (oils), what I eat, etc is not the BEST maybe but at always working toward “Better”, continually improving!
Misty
At no Point am I trying to start anything I am simply stating from my Own Experience. I am a Single Mother of 2 and I have also made the Sacrifice to make sure my Family can Live Healthier even to the Point of Making my own Oils from Home. Through all of this I experienced Ameo Oils and they have been well worth the Time and Money and are the Best I have Personally Found. I am not going to spend a lot of Money on other brands that I have to Buy twice as much just to Compare to the Results I receive from Ameo with just a few drops. Again Please do your Research and have a Blessed Day 🙂
Erin
Thanks for the input.
Sheri
Wow! Here Erin is trying to bring grace and peace to the essential oils war and another skirmish breaks out! I have been using essential oils for about ten years now. I make my own recipes. As I was looking for a recipe, I came across this website. (See link below.) She is the only one I see warning people to be careful with essential oils and provides safety guidelines.
She has a well-qualified third party lab test various brands. So far, three oils, myrrh, tea tree and peppermint. The results are first sent to company heads for response, then they are posted on her site. Different brands come out ahead on various tests. Not one takes the lead. They are tested on different properties.
http://www.learningabouteos.com
She graduated from Aromahead and has learned from Robert Tisserand. Do take a look at a balanced website. Remember, if the oil is strong enough for healing, using the wrong one, or the wrong way has potential for harm. Just like conventional medicine. Treat these oils with respect. They are not candy.
Thank you Erin for trying to bring peace!
Erin
Thanks so much, Sheri!
Angelia
I love essential oils I like fabulous frannie they are good and the price is right!!!
http://www.fabulousfrannie.com/
lori
Just wondering how you research essential oils. You gave info about one class but is there a website that does side by side comparisons?
Sheri
http://learningabouteos.com
She has done a few side-by-side comparisons. As she collects funds to do another set of tests, she will test another oil. People can sponsor any brand for the test. She gives some very good information about safety with essential oils. She has tested at least three so far, peppermint was one. I think tea tree was another.
I think anyone interested in essential oils should take a look at her site. She has recipes too!
Sharon
I definitely agree with having grace towards one another in our personal choices of which oil company we use, and not take part in any bashing. The bottom line is essential oils are an awesome natural alternative, and if one companies’ oils are helping you, then fantastic! I was disappointed to read the comments where more bashing was happening on BOTH companies and even on MLM’s. I am also low income, and I could not afford to buy essential oils HAD IT NOT BEEN for the MLM way these companies are set up. That was one of the reasons I chose to go through them was so that I could earn enough money to get them paid for, and I have had them paid for every month. I’m not pushy, or salesy, just doing what I would normally do which is just to share how they have worked for me. Plus, the women I am working with are so helpful, encouraging, supportive, honest, and are just like me in they just want to help their family and others with a natural alternative. It’s been the best job I have ever had. I’ve had such a positive experience, and I think that’s another reason they are getting so popular. So, yes, do your research, and decide what is the right path for you.
Karekorn78
Yes! Thanks to MLMs, I am doing the same! Earning my oils for free, and a little extra to put towards debt! 🙂 It is a great way to meet people, get out of your comfort zone, help other families live a healthier lifestyle AND get free stuff! 😉
Karekorn78
First off, great article! “Grace” is a fitting word for your demeanor. 🙂
So, I am personally a distributor for doTERRA, but EMBARASSED for the way some of our distributors in these comments have represented the company in which I am so proud of. 🙁
While I do sell the oils, I will NEVER push my oils or business any ANYONE. I prefer to share samples of the oils with friends/family, and if they love them, they will buy them from me. I do teach classes at peoples’ homes, and give them what little information I know about essential oils, in order to help them in some way with their problems. (I need to take that class you mentioned! Sounds great!)
No one truly knows all of the facts about each company. I prefer doTERRA, but if someone else is using Aura Cacia or YL, then good for them for taking their health into their own hands! I have had numerous health problems, and am so grateful for a more natural way to help my body heal itself without using tons of synthetic over-the-counter drugs. And I am so glad to see so many women/men doing the same!
Blessings,
Karen
Suzanne
A great article on this conflict. I , too, want to buy essential oils that are the best for our family. With that said I think this 7 part series by Whole New Mom really nailed many of the questions we all have. Read the whole series though!
http://wholenewmom.com/health-concerns/natural-remedies/announcing-the-best-essential-oils-company-and-a-great-sale/
Holly
I love essential oils and have used many of them, quite frequently. HOWEVER, started out on my oily journey with one of the two big MLM companies. After quite some time in it I decided to stop being a distributor – 1) I had serious questions on the integrity of the main “owner” that were only furthered by research I did on my own contacting schools credentials were claimed to be from that didn’t exist or those courses didn’t exist. 2) I simply couldn’t afford to spend $300.00 a month on oils even if it did “even out” with the folks under me ordering whilst trying to get out of debt! 3) I found other companies oils to be just as good for much less … I too use the top two mlm companies oils as well as other companies…. unfortunately my dear friend who I started this journey with who has gone on to be quite high up in one MLM barely speaks to me now, after 15 years of friendship and doing life together. Is it because I am no longer in her downline? I’m not sure but it makes me very sad for our relationship as well as for the angst that is spread amongst the EO community of late. Personally I would like to take some certified courses as well as read Tisserand’s book.
Bree
I like this post and this blog. I will definately start reading more of these articles. I am trying to be healthier. Here’s my take on the oils. Most of my friends use Doterra and love them. However, I am not fond of the costs, the shipping, and the fact that they come in the little bitty bottles. I do like their lemon, citrus bliss, wild orange and bergamot oils and will start using those more regularly. I drink lemon water everyday and love how its clearing my skin up. I use aura cacia oils as well and find them less costly and just as effective. I did get the membership and loyalty rewards program through Doterra and will do their share program to get the freebie oils, but for the more expensive blends like Sandlewood I want to use a cheaper oil for now. That’s just my preference. I’m glad we have essential oils and that there is more attention being given to natural products. Btw guys and gals, if you want a really good floor cleaning mixture that is non toxic, combine 1 cup of white vinegar, 1 Tablespoon of castile soap, 15 drops of preferred essential oil (I used Citrus bliss from Doterra, but there are several others that work too. Look for essential oil floor cleaner recipes) and a bucket of water. Your floors will shine, smell good and there is no toxic fumes.
Ken
Good site. Interesting that the Oil Brand wars continue. I would say a couple of things to your bloggers.
1. “Figures don’t lie but lairs sure figure.” UNTIL there is a standard such as ISO (International Standards Organization) by which the results of these claims can be measured then all of this hype, claims, is nothing more than B.S. and meaningless. Test results and their interpretation can be produced to show anything you want them to show.
2. “Everyone has an opinion and their opinion is the only correct one.” Who cares what Mr. or Ms. Citizen says? Are they a trained scientist qualified to make a statement?
3. Even the “Professionals” don’t know what they are talking about. Look at the FDA how many products that they have approved have been recalled, cause serious injuries or sickness or death?
The ancients and third world peoples are using plants and oils that they grow in their backyard. No multi-million dollar labs or fancy testing. If you are serious about knowing about alternative health then get and read the following: “RETURN TO EDEN” by Judith Ervine ISBN 9781466364295. See how she uses plants freely growing in the wild in Zimbabwe to treat the poor people there. NO YL, doTerra, or other multi-million dollar MLM scams here.
Nina
“God is the healer, with oils or without!” That is so true.
Enjoy reading your blog, Erin!
Erin
Thank you, Nina! Happy New Year!
Michelle
I’ve been researching Essential Oils for several days. I almost laughed when I read the title of this blog. Grace-filled response? Really? Then I read some of the dogmatic, cocky , prideful responses and I could see why you why you wrote this. Clearly , some of your readers have a different view of grace-filled response.
Personally, I love Edens Garden (but I wouldn’t hesitate in using another brand if I find one I like/trust). It’s very high quality EO’s. It’s third party tested. Many of their EO’s are organic. I’ve read that all of their EO’s are, but I haven’t confirmed that with the company. Personally, I don’t find the cost of the higher end, all-organic EO’s choices to be worth their cost based on the benefits. Edens Garden EO’s are reasonably priced, which is personally very important to my family. I can afford the higher end ones, but I don’t think they are one bit better, so why spend the extra money?
After reading so many reviews, some saying YL oils don’t work as well as DT’s oil, and vice versa, I decided to ditch the individual review , look at the big picture and overall ratings and choose a company that I trust based on other things. I think you summed it up well when you said put your trust in people, not brands. 🙂
Erin
I’ve been wanting to try Eden’s Garden.
Angela
I was totally sold o.k. essential oils after reading so much about what they could do. Not being able to afford an expensive brand I purchased one from the heath food store I frequent when insomnia reared it’s ugly head in my nightlife. I sure that it would be the answer to Mr. Sandman’s long awaited visits. I was severely disappointed. Then a friend gave me a sample from one of those two companies. Again I didn’t get the desired results. I then read an article saying brand and quality matter very much. Then I stumbled across this article. I don’t know what to believe, and would love to find out the why, and how to help myself naturally. Any thoughts?
Signed,
Desperately Seeking Sandman Visits
Erin
Hi Angela, I do think quality matters, but there are certain brands that tout themselves as the ONLY quality brand, and that’s just now true. Here are my thoughts on where to seek out EO information: https://thehumbledhomemaker.com/2015/09/best-way-to-learn-about-essential-oils
Josh
I’ve worked around people who use essential oils and have noticed that the brand loyalty is especially strong when network marketing distributors are involved. But that’s to be expected. They are trying to make a living by establishing brand loyalty, and they want to protect their income potential. It’s sad that it gets so heated at times, though.
I’ve also been close to people who just love essential oils and don’t really care where they come from, just as long as they are pure.
But the most difficult are those who assume everyone must want to experience essential oils, so they bring their diffusers to work and diffuse the oils for the entire office to enjoy. That bothers me as much as the “essential oils wars,” but I’ve learned to politely ask them to consider everyone else that shares the space before they do their thing.
There are so many essential oils companies out there now. Come to think of it, I don’t think I’ve ever come across a brand-loyalty fight that wasn’t related to MLM. Maybe that is correlated with the root of the problem.
Ashley
Can anyone recommend a good quality brand of eo that does not require going through a rep?
Will O
We use Plant Therapy a lot
www.thehumbledhomemaker.com/planttherapy
Erin
Plant Therapy!
Shelby
I totally agree with this!!! 2 years ago I signed up with young living and I find myself writing list of things I want rather than actually being able to buy the products because of the price. We are a one income family with 3 kids so we have to save money when where we can. I really don’t think one company is better than the other and have used other brands that work just as well for much less!!!! A great place to try out is plant therapy! They practice safety, have test reports that you can see online and have great prices!
Loretta
O!M!G! LOL! I had NO idea that this arena of alternative Health care had gone so commercially awry! I LOVE your comment about doing research and choosing what works for YOU from not just one company, but from an array of producers. What the hell happened to the serenity of just creating what does the Mind, Body and Spirit good? And I agree with an earlier commenter in this looooong line of comments…I don’t have time for drama, most especially when $$$ is involved. I’m so glad I was busy with more important things in my life than witnessing all the hair-pulling over essential oils and what other club to join that will put you in with the ‘in-crowd’. I think I like the way you think, Erin and I’m going to subscribe to your site. I need to believe that there are folks like you who are reasonable, and knowledgeable and yet, know there is so much more you don’t know. Thank you, Mama Bear for renewing my hope in thoughtful, rational thinking; compassionate, open sharing that benefits and supports the individual as well as the general Human condition and in beneficial websites that are hosted by genuine caring folk. ❤️