You have decided you want to explore essential oils and the benefits. Now what?
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When you are ready to buy essential oils, it’s imperative to understand what you should buy and what you shouldn’t. There is a lot of information out there and it can be confusing where to start. Due to the lack of regulation in the essential oils industry, you’ll want to know what to look for, what questions to ask, and why these things are important.
1. Research the Manufacturer
This one may not be easy because there are a growing number of companies out there. While some will recommend knowing where the manufacturer is located, and the local laws surrounding the standards of the place this isn’t always easy to find. Some better questions would include: Can you easily get in touch with the company through a web chat, email, or even phone number? Does the company share information about specific extraction to create a high-quality product? Are they willing to share third party testing results for the exact product you are purchasing?
2. Avoid Terms like “Therapeutic Grade”
Because the only government oversight or classification for essential oils is as a cosmetic, the term “therapeutic grade” essential oils really doesn’t exist. FDA definition link The term has no legal meaning, so anyone can say it. Some other common words used are “grade” or “certified” in their description that can be potentially misleading.
3. Look for Third Party Testing
Many companies that sell quality oils will have each batch tested by a third party that does a blind test of the oils to ensure quality. Even if sometimes the testing comes out poor, they take responsibility for it and if the company works to improve it that’s what’s important.
4. Check for Proper Packaging
Essential oils should be contained in dark glass. Many good companies use dark amber glass or blue glass for their essential oils. It is also important to note that essential oils have a shelf life. If a product is sold in plastic bottles or light colored glass it will reduce the life of the product.
5. Ensure Labels Are Accurate
One way to ensure that the manufacturer knows what they’re doing is with proper labeling. They should use both the Latin (botanical) names and the country of origin. The specific companies contact information should be on every bottle.
6. Understand Extraction Method
You also want to know how the oil was extracted. If a company cannot tell you how an oil was extracted, you can end up getting injured. One example is with bergamot (Citrus bergamia) when this oil is cold pressed it is highly phototoxic. There are some companies that have processed the oil to remove the bergapten which is the constituent that makes the oil phototoxic.
7. Buy Small or Sample Sizes
While it may feel like a waste of money buy small or sample sizes if possible. Whether you are purchasing online or in person don’t spend a ton or money all at once. If you can get sample sizes that is best to ensure you are receiving product you like and that is of a good quality. Most companies will offer samples or small sizes remember there is a cost so don’t let that turn you away if you have to pay a small fee.
8. Avoid Additives
When you buy pure essential oils, they should not have any additives. It’s okay to buy creams and potions made with essential oils, of course, but that is not the same thing. Once there is an additive such as vegetable oil, it’s no longer really an essential oil and not suitable for treatment.
9. Use Caution with Traveling Vendors
Farmer’s markets, craft fairs and street fairs are a great way to support small businesses. When you visit these events though go with a list of questions. If the vendor is reputable, they will be more than happy to answer your questions. Also, make sure there is a way to follow up with them afterwards.
Buying the right quality of essential oils, and using them the right way, is important. Take your time and use multiple resources for your learning. Following these tips for buying will help you get it right the first time.
Needing some help keeping track of all your essential oil learning grab a copy of my essential oil journal to help guide you.
