Essential Oils 101

Essential oils are the natural aromatic compounds found in nature. They can come from the flowering tops, stems, bark, or leaves of plant material. They are distilled or extracted from plants for POWERFUL health benefits.

Using Essential Oils

Aromatic use is done by breathing in an essential oil. This is done by either smelling the contents of the bottle or through the use of a diffuser. This is the most common way that essential oils used.

Topical use is the second way that essential oils can be used. Depending on the area of focus, common places to apply essential oils are the feet, spine, back of the neck, temples, stomach, pulse points, or over specific muscle groups. It's important to note that a carrier oil should always be used when using essential oils topically, Something that is touched on further down in this article.

The third way to use essential oils (dōTERRA specifically) is Internally. The problem with most essential oils that you would find on the shelves of a store is that there are just no regulations in regards to what companies are able to put IN their essential oils, or how they label their bottles. To learn more about dōTERRA’s rigorous testing processes continue reading.

Essential Oil Safety

It is important to note that when using essential oils a carrier oil should be used to ensure safety.Whether you are using a conventional product or natural solution, safety protocols should always be taken very seriously. doTERRA essential oils are very pure which means they are also very potent. It is recommended that you use a carrier oil, such as Fractioned Coconut Oil, to dilute essential oils when applying them topically to reduce possible skin sensitivity, to help the oils absorb better, and go further. There are some essential oils that are hot and need to be diluted more heavily than others. Eg: cinnamon and oregano. There are other oils that can feel icy hot when applied topically such as peppermint. On sensitive skin especially (like children and the elderly) it is important to dilute to their preference. It is also important that you don’t place essential oils in the ears, eyes, or nose (or any ‘canals’ of the body).