Essential Oil Basics

Essential oils are all the trend right now. They're all over Instagram, Pinterest boards and social media of all sorts but what is all the hype about? Many people all over the world are breaking away from pharmaceuticals, cleaning products, soaps, candles and more. What are the benefits of essential oils? How do you find a reliable company that you can trust? What's the difference between big brand store bought essential oils and buying from a reputable essential oil company?

What is an essential oil?

An essential oil is the life blood of a plant, it is a highly concentrated non-water soluble photychemical specifically derived from different parts of the plant which could be stems, roots, leaves, petals/flowers, and other parts. Plants have been used in ancient medicines for centuries. It all starts with a seed. A seed is hand planted in soil then tended to until it is mature. It is entirely free of pesticides, insect repelling essential oils are used to keep the pests at bay. The plant it harvested by hand at it's peak maturity. After harvest, the plant is distilled in one of three specific ways which preserves and concentrates the oil to perfection. A pure 100% therapeutic grade oil is 100% plant derived with absolutely no added fillers, chemicals or fragrances.

Some benefits of essential oils:

Essential oils are essential to your body. Research has shown that essential oils are able to break the blood brain barrier which can improve neurotransmitter activity. Essential oils have been proven to increase and support your immunity, balance hormones, create yuck-free cleaners for your home, balance mood, increase concentration and so, so much more.

How do I know a company is reputable?

Check your company's standards. Call your company of interest and ask questions, ask if you can come visit the farm and see how planting seeds, harvesting and distillation process works. The difference between essential oils bought at a big name store and essential oils from a reputable company is that the big name store brand oils are made in a lab with synthetics, fillers and chemicals. You can smell the difference! Take two bottles of peppermint, one from a big brand store and one from a reputable oil company, smell them! If it smells like a candy cane, that's probably because there is a synthetic peppermint fragrance added to your "pure" essential oil. Check third party testing to see how your company of interest checks out. Check to see if you can trace your essential oil back to the farm the plant was grown and harvested at. Your company of interest should not use pesticides as the pesticides will show traces within your essential oil. The list goes on.

It's important to remember that what you put on and in your body is what your body's fuel for life. The skin is the biggest organ on our body and absorbs all of the pollution in the air and any products we apply directly to our skin. I strongly encourage anyone to do their own research, cheaper is not always best and can actually be very harmful to you. Always use caution when applying essential oils are check your company's essential oil safety and use guidelines.

Happy Exploring!

Erin Berdahl

Young Living ID 3790401

*Disclaimer* I am NOT a doctor! These are speaking strictly on my own personal experiences and opinions. This is NOT intended to treat, diagnose, cure or prevent any disease, injury or illness. If you have an injury, illness or disease please seek the guidance of a professional.