A guide to understanding essential oils: “Gift of the Earth”

22249121 - closeup of beautiful young brunette girl smelling rosesChances are you’ve heard about essential oils. They’re growing in popularity — for good reason. Essential oils aren’t new. They’ve been used since ancient times. Learn more about this “Gift of the Earth.”

What are essential oils?

Essential oils are powerful plant extracts. These oils may be used to promote wellness or encourage feelings of peace. Have you ever caught a whiff of a rose as you walked through a garden? What about taking a hike through a forest and breathing deeply the refreshing scent of fir trees? Think about the boost you felt in mind and spirit from those scents, and you’ll begin to understand essential oils. Essential oils are what give plants those distinctive smells. However, they are more than just nice scents.

How are essential oils made?

Essential oils are extracted through steam distillation and cold pressing. But the how behind this process is so important. It is the difference between any essential oil and the truly pure essential oils that are doTERRA essential oils. That’s why doTERRA partners with growers and distillers who are committed to the highest standards. This means doTERRA is uncompromisingly selective — and will never cut corners.

How do you use essential oils?

Essential oils can be used in one of three different ways:

  • Aromatic: One of the most common methods of using essential oils is aromatically. They can be diffused into the air using an essential oil diffuser. You can also place drops of oil on a cotton ball and place in the air vents of your car or use in household cleaning and laundry for an uplifting fresh scent.
  • Topical: Essential oils are easily absorbed topically. They may be applied to the neck or temples, to the chest or even the bottom of feet. Because essential oils are highly potent, always start with the lowest possible dose and use a carrier oil (such as Fractionated Coconut Oil) to dilute more potent oils and when trying an oil for the first time.
  • Internal: Essential oils have long been used internally as flavoring and supplements. Proper dosing according to labeling recommendations and other professional guidelines should be strictly followed to avoid toxicity.