Frequently Asked Questions about Essential Oils
Including What Essential Oils Are!
What are essential oils?
Essential Oils are the "aromatic, volatile liquid that is within many shrubs, flowers, trees, roots, bushes, and seeds." (EODR 6th Edition) They are often times referred to as "the lifeblood of the plant". They are what carry oxygen and nutrients throughout the plant, much like our blood does for us.
Young Living essential oils are extracted in methods via:
- Steam Distillation
- Cold Pressing
- Resin Tapping
- Absolute Oil Extraction (Only used with Jasmine & Neroli)
These essential oils are highly concentrated and often times 50-70% more potent then dried herbs! You only need 1-2 drops per application.
How are essential oils different from vegetable oils?
Vegetable oils like corn oil, olive oil, etc. are greasy, pore clogging, and oxidize over time making them go rancid. When essential oils are extracted properly, they should never go rancid, absorb into the skin quickly, and in fact can contain many therapeutic benefits. Many essential oils have antimicrobial properties.
That's right, I said antimicrobial! PubMed has thousands of articles on Essential Oils as well as their many health benefits.
For example, a PubMed study from 2003 stated, "The antimicrobial properties of essential oils have been known for many centuries. In recent years (1987-2001), a large number of essential oils and their constituents have been investigated for their antimicrobial properties against some bacteria and fungi in more than 500 reports."
How long have essential oils been used for?
Essential oils have been around for THOUSANDS of years! "Records dating back to 4500BC describe the use of balsamic substances with aromatic properties for religious rituals and medical applications" (EODR 6th Edition). The Egyptians have been known to use essential oils and aromatics in embalming practices, as well as using oils, herbs, and aromatic plants for medicinal purposes. Hieroglyphics in ancient temples have documented the use of these things. The Romans were known to purify their temples and political buildings with essential oils.
What to use essential oils for?
Essential oils can be used for many things, some of which include:
How can essential oils be used?
Essential Oils can be used in 3 ways: Aromatically, Topically, or Internally
First I would like to state that the essential oils that I am talking about are Young Living Essential Oils. Not all oils are made equal and these methods may not be safe with other brands of EO's. Please NEVER ingest EO's that you find in health food stores. I know that there are oils out there that are cheaper then Young Living, but please NEVER ingest them. Personally I wouldn't even apply them topically! Click here to read why my family chooses Young Living. Also, please always consult your medical doctor before using oils. If you are pregnant or nursing please discuss with your medical doctor as well. You should also always consult your Essential Oil Desk Reference for information on how your oils should be used (there are mini reference books available as well).
Using your oils Aromatically - "The fragrance of an essential oil can directly affect everything from your emotional state to your lifespan" (EODR 6th ed.). This can be done through simply placing a few drops of your EO into the palm of your hand, rubbing around, cupping over your nose and inhaling. You can also directly inhale from the bottle, or use your EO's in a diffuser. "Diffused oils alter the structure of molecules that create odors, rather then just masking them. They also increase oxygen availability, produce negative ions, and release natural ozone" (EODR 6th ed.).
Research shows that cold-air diffusing certain oils may: (EODR 6th ed.)
Using your oils Topically - Many essential oils are safe to apply directly onto the skin. Some oils are considered "hot" oils and should be diluted with a carrier oil. The "hot" oils that come in your starter kit include: Peppermint, PanAway and Thieves. If you aren't sure about others, this is a good reason to have a reference book...you can just look it up :)
Please read your labels and dilute as recommended. Always test skin before applying EOs for the first time (esp for those with sensitive skin). Our skin is our largest organ and therefore a great way to use our oils! I like to apply my EO's to my temples, wrists, neck, stomach (for digestive support), chest (for healthy lung support), and my feet. Feet are always my "go to". Your feet have the largest pores in your body and will be absorbed quickly. There are also VitaFlex points on our hands, feet, ears, and spine. If you are familiar with reflexology at all, this is a great way to use your EOs.
EO's can be used topically via:
Please note that many of our lotions and beauty products contain toxins...Yes, I said it. Please do your research and know what products you are putting on your skin. The EWG is a great place to start! Due to this toxicity in our everyday products sometimes our EOs may react with a specific toxin and create a skin irritation. Please know that this is not your EO, but the reaction you are getting from it combining with your products. If this occurs please stop use of your EO and switch to a new non-toxic beauty product before continuing with your oils.
Using your oils Internally - Many Young Living essential oils can be ingested! Many have been approved by the FDA as a food additive, supplement, or GRAS. Please check your labels for dosages.
You can ingest essential oils:
What does it mean to apply my essential oil "neat"?
"Neat" means that the essential oil does not need to be diluted with a carrier oil. It can be used safely by applying directly to your skin.
What is a carrier oil?
A carrier oil is an oil that is used to mix with the essential oil to dilute it. Carrier oils that can be used include (but are not limited to): Young Living's V6 Carrier Oil, Vegetable Oil, Olive Oil, Coconut Oil, Jojoba Oil, Sweet Almond Oil, Grapeseed Oil, etc.
A carrier oil would be used when:
What type of safety should be followed when using essential oils?
No matter what products you are using, one should always practice caution. Here are some great safety tips straight from the company --> SAFETY TIPS. Also always refer to your Essential Oils Reference Guide for usage information.
Where can an essential oils reference guide be purchased?
Here are the 2 brands that I like. These ones are specific to Young Living products.
There are also mini reference books and even reference phone apps available. Be sure to check them out!
Are essential oils regulated by the FDA?
No they are not, and this is why it is important to know where your oils are coming from, how they were obtained, as well as the purity level! After my family's research on the topic we choose to use Young Living Essential Oils only and here is why -- (click here). I encourage everyone to do their own research and make their own informed decisions. Become empowered with knowledge! Not all essential oils are equal!
Essential Oils are the "aromatic, volatile liquid that is within many shrubs, flowers, trees, roots, bushes, and seeds." (EODR 6th Edition) They are often times referred to as "the lifeblood of the plant". They are what carry oxygen and nutrients throughout the plant, much like our blood does for us.
Young Living essential oils are extracted in methods via:
- Steam Distillation
- Cold Pressing
- Resin Tapping
- Absolute Oil Extraction (Only used with Jasmine & Neroli)
These essential oils are highly concentrated and often times 50-70% more potent then dried herbs! You only need 1-2 drops per application.
How are essential oils different from vegetable oils?
Vegetable oils like corn oil, olive oil, etc. are greasy, pore clogging, and oxidize over time making them go rancid. When essential oils are extracted properly, they should never go rancid, absorb into the skin quickly, and in fact can contain many therapeutic benefits. Many essential oils have antimicrobial properties.
That's right, I said antimicrobial! PubMed has thousands of articles on Essential Oils as well as their many health benefits.
For example, a PubMed study from 2003 stated, "The antimicrobial properties of essential oils have been known for many centuries. In recent years (1987-2001), a large number of essential oils and their constituents have been investigated for their antimicrobial properties against some bacteria and fungi in more than 500 reports."
How long have essential oils been used for?
Essential oils have been around for THOUSANDS of years! "Records dating back to 4500BC describe the use of balsamic substances with aromatic properties for religious rituals and medical applications" (EODR 6th Edition). The Egyptians have been known to use essential oils and aromatics in embalming practices, as well as using oils, herbs, and aromatic plants for medicinal purposes. Hieroglyphics in ancient temples have documented the use of these things. The Romans were known to purify their temples and political buildings with essential oils.
What to use essential oils for?
Essential oils can be used for many things, some of which include:
- Enhancing your physical wellness: Modern lifestyles don’t always create optimal conditions for physical wellness. Poor diet, lack of exercise, and an overabundance of environmental toxins can leave the body unbalanced and diminish energy levels. From cleansing and weight management to supporting every system of the body, essential oils and essential oil-infused supplements can provide the targeted solutions you need to restore balance and feel your best.
- Inspiring positive emotional states: Each essential oil’s complex, pleasant, and unique scent activates the limbic system—the brain’s center of emotion and memory—differently. Essential oils can be your key to a more fulfilling and balanced emotional life.
- Purifying your home: Harsh chemical formulas aren’t your only home cleansing option. Enjoy peace of mind without compromise when you polish countertops, clean sticky messes, and cleanse dirty surfaces with the gentle but effective power of essential oils and Young Living's Thieves® product line.
- Refining your skin: Purge chemicals from your beauty routine and rediscover your natural glow. An ancient skin care secret, essential oils can help promote a clear-looking complexion, soften the appearance of signs of aging, and nurture healthy-looking hair.
- Creating deep spiritual awareness: Incense and essential oils from plants have always played an important part in religious and spiritual ceremonies, helping participants to transcend the trivial and connect with something larger than themselves. Research shows that the pure constituents in these oils stimulate olfactory receptors and activate regions in the brain’s limbic system associated with memory, emotion, and state of mind. To enhance your spiritual practice, dilute and apply meditative, empowering essential oils directly to wrists, feet, and behind the ears, or diffuse in a quiet space.
How can essential oils be used?
Essential Oils can be used in 3 ways: Aromatically, Topically, or Internally
First I would like to state that the essential oils that I am talking about are Young Living Essential Oils. Not all oils are made equal and these methods may not be safe with other brands of EO's. Please NEVER ingest EO's that you find in health food stores. I know that there are oils out there that are cheaper then Young Living, but please NEVER ingest them. Personally I wouldn't even apply them topically! Click here to read why my family chooses Young Living. Also, please always consult your medical doctor before using oils. If you are pregnant or nursing please discuss with your medical doctor as well. You should also always consult your Essential Oil Desk Reference for information on how your oils should be used (there are mini reference books available as well).
Using your oils Aromatically - "The fragrance of an essential oil can directly affect everything from your emotional state to your lifespan" (EODR 6th ed.). This can be done through simply placing a few drops of your EO into the palm of your hand, rubbing around, cupping over your nose and inhaling. You can also directly inhale from the bottle, or use your EO's in a diffuser. "Diffused oils alter the structure of molecules that create odors, rather then just masking them. They also increase oxygen availability, produce negative ions, and release natural ozone" (EODR 6th ed.).
Research shows that cold-air diffusing certain oils may: (EODR 6th ed.)
- Reduce bacteria, fungus, mold, and unpleasant odors
- Relax the body, relieve tension, and clear the mind
- Help with healthy weight management
- Improve concentration, alertness, and mental clarity
- Stimulate neurotransmitters
- Stimulate secretion of endorphins
- Stimulate growth hormone production and receptivity
- Support healthy digestive function
- Support healthy hormonal balance
- Relieve minor occasional headaches
Using your oils Topically - Many essential oils are safe to apply directly onto the skin. Some oils are considered "hot" oils and should be diluted with a carrier oil. The "hot" oils that come in your starter kit include: Peppermint, PanAway and Thieves. If you aren't sure about others, this is a good reason to have a reference book...you can just look it up :)
Please read your labels and dilute as recommended. Always test skin before applying EOs for the first time (esp for those with sensitive skin). Our skin is our largest organ and therefore a great way to use our oils! I like to apply my EO's to my temples, wrists, neck, stomach (for digestive support), chest (for healthy lung support), and my feet. Feet are always my "go to". Your feet have the largest pores in your body and will be absorbed quickly. There are also VitaFlex points on our hands, feet, ears, and spine. If you are familiar with reflexology at all, this is a great way to use your EOs.
EO's can be used topically via:
- Massage
- Acupuncture
- Acupressure
- Warm Compress
- Cold Packs
- Layering
- In Baths/Showers ( I always add to epsom salt when using in the bath)
Please note that many of our lotions and beauty products contain toxins...Yes, I said it. Please do your research and know what products you are putting on your skin. The EWG is a great place to start! Due to this toxicity in our everyday products sometimes our EOs may react with a specific toxin and create a skin irritation. Please know that this is not your EO, but the reaction you are getting from it combining with your products. If this occurs please stop use of your EO and switch to a new non-toxic beauty product before continuing with your oils.
Using your oils Internally - Many Young Living essential oils can be ingested! Many have been approved by the FDA as a food additive, supplement, or GRAS. Please check your labels for dosages.
You can ingest essential oils:
- In your water - put 1-2 drops in your water. Please ALWAYS use glass! Remember EO's attack toxins, including plastic. My favorites in water are Lemon, Citrus Fresh, and Tangerine.
- EO's are also great added to tea. I don't even use tea bags anymore, I simply make my own "oil tea". I place approx 1tsp of local raw honey in a mug, add 1tsp of coconut oil, 1-2 drops of essential oil, and add boiling water. Stir and enjoy! Simple. Did you know that Bergamot is the ingredient in Earl Grey tea that gives it that distinct flavor? Try Bergamot EO instead. I love mixing it with peppermint or orange! (only 1 drop of each is plenty)
- You can also ingest using vegetable capsules. These can be purchased through YL or at any health food store. You simply open the capsule, add the recommended dose of EO, add a carrier oil (if needed), cap and consume. This is a great way to ingest those oils that simply don't taste good.
What does it mean to apply my essential oil "neat"?
"Neat" means that the essential oil does not need to be diluted with a carrier oil. It can be used safely by applying directly to your skin.
What is a carrier oil?
A carrier oil is an oil that is used to mix with the essential oil to dilute it. Carrier oils that can be used include (but are not limited to): Young Living's V6 Carrier Oil, Vegetable Oil, Olive Oil, Coconut Oil, Jojoba Oil, Sweet Almond Oil, Grapeseed Oil, etc.
A carrier oil would be used when:
- An essential oil is "hot" - some essential oils may leave a burning or intense cooling sensation when applied topically to the skin neat. These oils are recommended to be diluted with a carrier oil. This allows you to use the EO, gain all the therapeutic benefits, and do so comfortably.
- To spread the oil along a large surface - Sometimes when we are using EOs we would like to cover a larger area (ie the back); using an essential oil neat will for sure make you blow through your oil in no time if you are trying to cover your entire back! This would be a good time to use a carrier oil. The carrier oil will help spread the oil over a larger area, dispersing the therapeutic value without using an abundant amount of your EO.
- When using on babies/children/pets or even those with very sensitive skin. Essential oils should ALWAYS be diluted when using on babies, children or pets. They are much more sensitive to these potent oils then a grown adult. Please refer to safety information on Young Living's website or in your Essential Oil Reference Guide or Safety Books. Gentle Babies by Debra Raybern is an excellent reference to use for pregnancy and/or children. I highly recommend purchasing this book!
What type of safety should be followed when using essential oils?
No matter what products you are using, one should always practice caution. Here are some great safety tips straight from the company --> SAFETY TIPS. Also always refer to your Essential Oils Reference Guide for usage information.
Where can an essential oils reference guide be purchased?
Here are the 2 brands that I like. These ones are specific to Young Living products.
- Essential Oils Desk Reference <--this one seems to have more in-depth scientific research
- Essential Oils Reference Guide <-- this one is cheaper
There are also mini reference books and even reference phone apps available. Be sure to check them out!
Are essential oils regulated by the FDA?
No they are not, and this is why it is important to know where your oils are coming from, how they were obtained, as well as the purity level! After my family's research on the topic we choose to use Young Living Essential Oils only and here is why -- (click here). I encourage everyone to do their own research and make their own informed decisions. Become empowered with knowledge! Not all essential oils are equal!
I hope this FAQ section helped answer some of your questions.
If you still have unanswered questions please feel free to contact me.
If you are interested in getting started please click here.
If you still have unanswered questions please feel free to contact me.
If you are interested in getting started please click here.
Please note that any time I mention essential oils, I am always referring to Young Living Essential Oils. Not all essential oils are made equal and what I recommend for Young Living products may not be safe with other oil brands. Please do your own research!