Written by Stephanie Langford, Creator of Keeper of the Home
Although I am in love with using natural remedies, including herbs and essential oils, I have remained skeptical about just how much of a difference the particular brand of oils that you use really makes. Perhaps you, like me, have heard what you deem to be "hype" about this brand or that one, and wonder if it's there's really anything to it or if it makes no difference.
If I'm being honest, that's how I felt every time someone commented or emailed and told me about doTERRA oils and how amazing they were. I'd secretly roll my eyes and think "here we go again".
I have to go eat a slice of pie now. Humble pie.
For the past two months or so, I have been testing out a number of doTERRA oils, both Singles and Blends, through Modern Wellness. Christy from Modern Wellness asked me back in October whether I would consider reviewing some oils, and I decided to give in and said yes. She asked me for some of the health concerns or needs for our family, and then sent a wonderful package full of oils in the mail.
At this point, I got a little bit excited. See, I've been falling in love with essential oils over the past two years, as much as a skeptic as I was that these particular ones were any different, I do enjoy experimenting with them and learning how we can better use them for our health and well being.
She also sent me an amazing essential oil reference book, Modern Essentials, which lists every single oil and every blend carried by doTERRA, with detailed instructions on how to use them, as well as a section in the back with all sorts of illnesses, ailments, mood and behavior struggles, etc. and then numerous ideas for various oils that could be used in each situation. This book was invaluable to me, both in delving into my review of these oils, and also in becoming more experienced in using essential oils in general.
Here's what we thought of the oils we tried:
- Deep Blue Rub- This is my favorite, hands down. It is similar to an icy blue rub, like what you might buy at the pharmacy, but a million times better. You can buy it either as an oil blend, or as a lotion that is already mixed with the oils (this is what we tried). It has a beautiful blue color to it, which actually comes from the oils. It smells divine. Every time I or my husband used it, we commented again on how incredible it smelled. Even better, it was such a soothing balm to my sore, tight muscles (courtesy of a car accident we were in earlier this summer). I used it on my worst nights/days and it definitely gave a good measure of relief. I really, really want to buy more of this stuff.
- Serenity- This is another oil blend, with lavender, sweet marjoram, roman chamomile, ylang ylang, sandalwood and vanilla bean. I sometimes struggle with insomnia, and this is the oil that I would dab just lightly on my wrists and the pulse points on my neck before going to bed. I honestly found myself sniffing my wrists as I went to bed, because the scent relaxed me so much. I can definitely say that this blend helped me to sleep better on the nights that I needed it. I also tried it on my daughters on two different occasions, when they were upset about something and just couldn't go to sleep, and this really helped to calm them down so that they could rest.
- Lavender- I've been using lavender oil for a long time, but this is the purest, strongest, most beautiful smelling lavender I've ever used.
- Balance- Can I just say that whoever works at doTERRA and puts together their blends is talented beyond belief? Every single blend that we tried smelled absolutely heavenly, this one being no exception. I used this one on days when I felt stressed and unbalanced. Sometimes I put it on my feet and pulse points on my neck, and other times I put it in my nebulizer (this distributes miniscule drops of the oils into the air in a very fine mist, so that you both smell and inhale them gradually). I could tell that it helped to keep my more calm and level-headed.
- On Guard- This was a very close second to the Deep Blue Rub as my favorite scent. I used this one mostly in the nebulizer to help keep everyone healthy when colds/flus started going around where we live. As for how well it works, I'm not sure. I did use it on myself when I as really sick and I couldn't particularly notice a difference.
- Wild Orange and Peppermint (these were both Singles, not a combination)- Again, I was incredibly impressed with the purity of these oils, just like with the lavender. The orange was even orange-tinted and smelled so sweet. The peppermint was strong and I hardly had to use any of it for a good effect. Christy had said to try these two together, and so that's what I did in my nebulizer and the scent was beautiful and very energizing. It's my new happy smell (well, that and Balance). I also used the orange (diluted with the fractionated coconut oil) on my baby when he experienced some constipation. The book said to rub it on his feet and tummy, and when I did so a couple times, it seemed to stimulate his system and help clear up the problem. It was around the time when I was sick, so it may have had to do with being slightly dehydrated since I was struggling with my milk supply a little, but nonetheless, the orange oil did the trick until he was back to normal.
- Past Tense- She sent me this one because I had been experiencing headaches, but wouldn't you know it, I haven't had too many since having this oil blend around. I did try it a few times and I found that if I had a headache that was still mild or just beginning, it worked really well to counteract it. If I waited too long and it turned into a migraine (which I've had occasionally since the car accident) then it helped a little but it seemed like it was a bit too late to make a difference at that point.
- In Tune- I wanted something to help my 5 year old focus a bit more during homeschool, because he's very easily distracted (I know, all 5 year olds are, but he can be particularly so). I didn't always remember to use it, but when I did, I would rub it on the bottoms of his feet (which made him giggle, but he enjoyed it and liked the scent). The difference wasn't dramatic, but it was noticeable. I also took to using it on myself a few times when I felt really scatterbrained and though that it focused me a little better, but again.
This is the orange oil, a few drops poured onto an off-white baby cloth. You can clearly see the orange color of the oil.
My overall thoughts of the doTERRA oils
- They seem to be very pure and strong. I already have lavender, peppermint and orange, so I compared each of them with the ones from doTERRA and definitely noticed a difference. The doTERRA oils seemed stronger, sweeter, and had a more true scent, and even retained just a slight bit of color. I also felt that maybe I could use less than I normally would, because of the strength. I made a glass with a couple drops of peppermint oil, as I sometimes do for an upset tummy, and the oil was way too strong. I had to pour half of it out and just fill it up with water. One drop would have been enough.
- The blends are incredible. I wish that I could make my own blends, but even though I have a wide array of different oils (probably 12+ different ones) that really isn't enough to make well-balanced blends. Beyond that, it just takes a lot of knowledge and skill to put together blends that are both effective and pleasing to smell. My husband even specifically asked me if I was going to buy any of the blends, especially the Deep Blue Rub.
- They're expensive. I would like to be able to buy these oils, particularly some of the blends that we loved, but I do find the cost a bit prohibitive. I'm used to paying more like $5-$25 per bottle (depending on which oil it is, prices vary), but these oils are more like $13-$50+. To make them affordable, you can join as a Wholesale Member, for $35 start up and $25 yearly fees. You can then purchase oils at significantly lower prices (at least 25% lower), as well as earn points and rewards for what you do buy. I calculated it a bit and I think that if you used essential oils frequently, this would probably work out to make them reasonably affordable. Note that this is an MLM (multi-level marketing) company, but that's too big a ball of yarn to tackle in this post, so I'll suffice it to say MLMs can have both good and bad points. :)
Common questions about essential oils
This is where we get to the frustrating area of hot debate, unknown answers, differing points of view, hype, and all that fun stuff.
First of all, I'll state that this is a sponsored review, by Christy of Modern Wellness, who is a doTERRA rep. The primary focus of this post is to review the products that she sent me. I also want to say that as far as reps go, she is the first one that I chose to work with, because I really liked how she approached me, her completely non-pushy attitude, how much she wanted to share good information to help people, and she's just been a pleasure to work with overall (thanks, Christy!). If you're going to buy doTERRA, I highly recommend doing it through Christy.
I do know that because I have readers that like to analyze and dig into the details as much as I do, I can't just let it go without addressing some of these questions as well as best as I can.
I am nowhere near an essential oil expert, but just a wife and mom that seeks out alternative natural remedies for my family. I do the best research I can with the limited time that I have. Some of you will disagree with me on some of these points, and some of you will wish I had provided more detailed/scientific answers, and I'll apologize in advance for that, but this is my basic understanding of the issue as a non-expert, so just take it all with a grain of salt.
1. What is a "pure" essential oil?
From my limited reading, I understand that for an essential oil to be pure, it should:
- Be extracted using a low-temperature and low-pressure system. Steam distillation is the preferred process, and ideally the oils should be from the first distillation.
- Not contain any other ingredients whatsoever. It should be 100% pure oil. However, we should take a clue from the food industry and realize that "pure" doesn't necessarily mean pure when used on a package. There are companies selling cheap oils that have other oils or fillers added, to boost their profit margins. As Adrienne wisely stated, if the price seems to good to be true, it likely is. Genuine essential oils are not cheap to produce.
- Ideally, the oils should be from a first distillation. That said, I have been reading that sometimes you get different qualities from the second or third distillation, and some companies do blend the oils from multiple distillations to come up with their final product (yes, doTERRA being one of them for a handful of their oils). Not being an expert in this area, I don't want to just say "first distillation only" because I don't honestly know if it's any better or worse either way.
- From one of two sources, either a) wildcrafted from where they naturally grow (this in an instance in which we don't want locally grown- we want herbs and botanicals taken from where they originally come from, as this is where they will grow best and provide the most medicinal qualities, or so I'm told), or 2) from organic sources, to avoid any chemical contamination.
For a bit more reading on essential oil purity, Adrienne of Whole New Mom has been exploring the whole issue and this post (and the whole essential oil series) takes a closer look at the processes and the darker side of the industry.
It's important to note that as with many natural health alternatives, there is no one governing standard or certification process for essential oils. doTERRA says it themselves on their website. There is AFNOR in France, which sets standards and regulations, but it is NOT a regulatory body.
Which means, everyone creates their own standards, tries to show how their processes are better than everyone else's, and in the end, it's difficult to know exactly what's what. Honestly, in many regards, I'm as confused as the rest of you. Do the best research you can into the process, try the oils for yourself, and go with your gut on the ones that seem pure and effective for you.
2. Are essential oils safe to ingest? Any of them or only some brands?
Again, this is up for debate. If you're using 100% pure oils, not cheap ones that may have chemical residues or unwanted filler ingredients, then my feeling is that it is probably fine. doTERRA specifically states that theirs are safe to ingest because of the purity, and I would personally apply that safety to any brand that is actually a pure oil as well.
That said, I personally think that we're a bit too quick to take things internally, especially essential oils. I do use them in a few things, like my toothpaste recipe (which we spit out), and very occasionally a drop or two that we drink in water, and sometimes Oil of Oregano under the tongue. Other than that, I don't like taking something so strong internally. You can get excellent results using them topically, or sometimes in the air (through something like a nebulizer- I love mine!).
These are two of their blends that come in roll-on bottles, for easy topical application.
3. How much does quality matter? Will they still work if I buy a cheaper brand?
Again, I don't know for sure. I've used some cheaper brands over the years with limited success, but I mostly bought them for the scents or for cleaning purposes. As I've begun to use them more medicinally, I've preferred to find ones that are higher quality. Sometimes it requires trial and error.
I think it's possible that some cheaper brands could still offer medicinal qualities and good results, but I do know for sure that I've seen real results from the higher quality oils I've tried. I was particularly happy with some of the results that I had with doTERRA oils, and it would be interesting to try to mimic those results using something else.
4. Do they honestly even work in the first place? There seems to be so much hype about essential oils.
I love essential oils and I do believe that they work. I've used them so many times over the past few years and have been very impressed with some of the results. For muscle pain and soreness, for headaches, for tummy troubles and constipation, for nerves and balancing moods and relaxation, for healing infections. I can say that from my experience, essential oils are a valuable part of my natural medicine cabinet.
5. If I can't afford something like doTERRA, what else would you recommend?
I personally really like Mountain Rose Herbs oils, which I have just begun buying. I also like Saje oils (these might only be available in Canada), but they're also pricey. Aromaforce sources their oils from native plants and is pure (again, Canadian company, but possibly available elsewhere). I've also heard many good things about Aura Cacia and Heritage.
I do think it's worth it to check into the doTERRA Wholesale Membership option through Modern Wellness. You could contact Christy through her website or Facebook page to get a better idea of how the benefits work and what the discounts would be like.
Bottom line on doTERRA oils?
I didn't know if I would notice a difference with doTERRA and I went into this skeptical, but I honestly was impressed by them. I really, genuinely liked them and found them to be effective. In my books, that's enough for me to warrant a bit of extra research and to consider some higher costs, since I regularly use essential oils for our family's health needs.
I also wanted to mention that when you buy oils through a rep, you're more likely to get a high level of support. That's worth something, because most of you aren't essential oil experts (just as I'm not). Oh sure, we can google it and research it on our own, but we all know that there is a ton of unreliable information out there, mixed in with the trustworthy sources.
I appreciate how Christy shares helpful information on the Modern Wellness blog, website and Facebook page, and how she offers free webinars to further teach about the uses of essential oils. You aren't likely to get that kind of help and information from most oil sources, and so that's something to consider.
Do you use essential oils? What are some of the ways that you have found them to be helpful and effective for your family?
Also, I know that many of you are chomping at the bit to turn this into an EO brand debate. I'm all right with a few carefully worded comments sharing your opinions, but please, let's keep it civil. I've seen such awful, nasty comments on this topic (it's shocking, really!), and I just don't care for that at all. We're all adults, so let's have a conversation like adults.
I love the idea of incorporating essential oils into my massage therapy practice. When a friend signed me up with Doterra I was a little concerned that I didn't know enough about essential oils to safely use them on my medically fragile clients. After a little more research, that same night, I learned that essential oils used incorrectly can cause harm. I decided that until I learn more and get certified in aromatherapy I couldn't just apply someone else's formula. My order, however, was processed immediately with no way to cancel. I don't like that in business. I don't dispute the therapeutic benefits of essential oils. But Doterra is a multilevel marketing company selling essential oils. I inadvertently became their sales rep.when I signed up for wholesale oils.
I was just wondering if you have tried young living essential oils, I am not trying to sell them to you, I am just wondering if doterra is better, I currently use young living oils but havent switched to doterra because I like the juice YL makes, but I hear great things about doterra
I am confused.....help! Maybe Christy could help me
Hi, I am Nellie and I have been with doterra for a few months, I started with a somewhat closed mind but thought i would give it a shot (knowing very little about essential oils). I originally looked into it to find a way to help me and my boyfriend with our health and emotional issues, without the hassle and costs of doctors, but as I started to get into the oils more I realized what I have been missing out on for a long time. The oils have helped us and I have made many natural house cleaners using the Doterra. I really enjoyed your article. I love seeing others remarks (good and bad) about these oils especially since you have tried other brands. I have noticed some oils may work on some people but not others. I would love to read more from you, and maybe swap ideas on how we use them.
I thought I would clear up something I have learned about distilling of essential oils. I'm not an expert but I have learned this from an essential oils expert, that has a face book group called essential oil university. All essential oil but one are made from a "first distillation". It is impossible to get further product with repeat distillation of the material. The exception to this is Ylang-Ylang, which does have different properties at different times of the distillation process. After the distillation oils might go through another process that will remove chemicals (natural ones in the oils) that can inhibit or make the use of the oil not as pleasant. The discussion I read was specifically about peppermint because peppermint oil can actually have a chemical component that can upset the stomach, the reasoning behind the removal of this specific molecule is so peppermint can be used to calm the stomach, otherwise why use it for that purpose. They may be argument about why you should use this oil over another because of this treatment, but oils do not go through multiple distillations as the first completely takes out all the oil from the plant material and you would not get more from them. As I said Ylang-ylang is different, but I think that has more to do with the timing of the distillation.
Thank you for your honesty. I use doTerra and I make it a point to be informative, respectful, and a non-salesperson. The great thing is doTerra has launched a website called http://www.aromaticscience.com which takes published research papers from around the world on essential oils.
I have been a user and reseller of doterra products for years. In my opinion, they are the best EO in the business. I also think this review is very accurate and I thoroughly enjoy Stephanie's writing style. That is why I have decided to offer a 10% discount to the readers of this page on any doterra products by going to my website http://www.essentialsofeden.com and entering the coupon code PARTNER10. Thanks again for such a great website!
I do like doTerra oils, but be VERY careful about the other products they make, such as the deep blue rub. If you look at the ingredient list you would be very shocked at some of the ingredients. I am disappointed when companies claim to be into "health and wellness" but then use so many harmful, synthetic, or questionable chemicals in their products. I think DoTerra as a company should just stick with selling the oils, and a lot of the reps that I know do not sell the other skincare and body care products. You can look up the ingredients on the EWG's website: http://www.CosmeticsDatabase.com
As an R.N., I know the body works on an electrical field. I have always used many natural methods, herbs in particular for all types od my family health. Essential Oils, I discovered have a FAR HIGHER vibration rate (i.e. how well something works to restore wellness) than herbs-or anything I've found. After extensive research, trial & error, money "thrown away" on essential oils, I have happily stumbled onto doTerra. EVERY oil I have used, has worked, i.e.Deep Blue, Peppermint, Serenity, Balance, On Guard-and on. This Co. gives Much support, started research yrs ago, Costs are ok, as a drop is sufficient, I would spend more at the drug store, on similar products, (like pepcid, antibiotics), & know we are preventing-not waiting for the virus or condition to arrve, then suffering. If you have children-you should absolutely have doTerra!
Oh. My. Goodnezz.
Another new EO line to try.
Frankly, my husband is gonna cry. But, well...it's all in the name of science, after all. (running off to grab debit card)
I was introduced to Doterra oils 6 weeks ago at a time in my life when my health was at its worst!!!! and had been for many many years with inflammatory disease, broken sleep, and also mental health issues. What a God send they have been in helping RECLAIM MY HEALTH back. I cannot recommended these oils enough. They have also worked in assisting me with long standing emotional issues. I now find myself recommending them to ALL my loved ones!
I have been using doTerra oils since Oct. 2012. They have litterally brought me back to life. It is such a long story to tell. I have used many holisiticavenues for health. I have had a very hard 10 years, with many deep trials that have truly taken a toll on my health. In every facet. The oil protocol that I am doing and affirmations that go with them, have truly empowered me again. I have a strength within me that left years ago. I always thought essen. Oils were fairydust and bubbles(in a manner of speaking). It is not true. I know doTerra has a good pure cptg(certif..pure therapudic, grade) must pass 3 tests to get that stamp of approval. I am still on my journey, but feel confident doTerra will continue to be my vehicle. Mary.
I also purchased the doTERRA Lotus Diffuser. It's so beautiful and I just love it! I have tried diffusing many oils like On Guard and Lavender. I would be glad to take any suggestions on which oils are great to diffuse. I purchase them from http://doterraspecials.com, and I think they offer the best prices.
I love doTERRA products! I recently purchased the doTERRA Aroma Lotus Ultrasonic Diffuser from http://www.mynaturalmarket.com/doTERRA.html and so far I'm loving it! I have nothing bad to say about doTERRA so far :)
Hi, I was recently introduced to doterra by a friend. One of the comments on your site by LPatton said a friend at church used essential oil on her inoperable tumor and it shrank. Can you please tell me which one
Will be really appreciated. Waiting for your response. Thanks
Frankincense, this oil ( the king of oils) is an Anti-tumor.
I am a firm believer in Doterra oils. Last summer my daughter had a rough month starting out with the flu that lasted 2 weeks, then a double ear infection, followed up with hand foot and mouth. A friend of mine gave me a mix of sandalwood and Helichrysum to rub in her mouth and by day 3 she was eating like she use to. Her mouth had huge sores from the HFM and they were healing way faster than the 7-10 days the Dr told me it would take to heal. Thank you for the review!
Thank you for all your research. A friend of mine is a DoTerra rep. I love that she does not push it on anyone. She believes the product speaks for itself. She mailed me some samples and I was amazed at the difference in the smell and the feel of the oils. I am a massage therapist and use essential oils. Been an EO user for almost 10 years. Thinking of signing up myself.
Thanks you for your well-done and thorough article. I've been working with essential oils for over 20 years and may be able to answer some of your questions.
Yes, there is definitely a difference in quality essential oils. Essential oils include between 200-500 different chemical components and when you have a cheap oil, there are simply less chemical components. So you wind up using more of the product to get the results you want, and in many cases the nuances or complexity simply isn't there. Like in most things in life...you get what you pay for. With that said, MLM's are not really where you want to buy essential oils because they jack up their prices to make a hefty profit. You need to find a quality oil that you can buy wholesale. I have tested Mt. Rose Herb essential oils and found them to be mediocre. If you have a retail license you can purchase Oshadi from Lotus Light at wholesale prices. Their growing and processing procedures are tested and certified by EcoCert, that have the highest organic standards in the world. In my experience Aura Casia sells a bottom line oil. It's popular because it's inexpensive.
For the most part you do want the 1st steam distillation and not a combination of distillations. The only exception I can think of is Ylang Ylang. I have found the complete (combo of distillations) great for bath salts, but not strong enough for the facial serum I make and sell. Also essential oils from citrus can only be expeller pressed, as the oil comes from the rind, and you definitely want the 1st pressing.
Trust this have clarified things.
I worked in a,spa for 10 years and wanted to bring in a healthy, inexpensive line of EOs. I found Elizabeth VanBuren oils to be great and what a wonderful company to work with. They even have their own e
EO school in California and she's written her own EO books. They educated me on the fact that every one if their oils are out through a GC/MS gas chromotagraph mass spectrometer filtration system. A lot of so called " natural and pure" EOs in the stores do not go through this healthy process, FYI. Enjoy your oils. Happy Blending and good health to all.
http://Www.elizabethbanburen.com if interested.
Just an FYI-- there's no such thing as a therapeutic grade-- per the FDA; that's just marketing hype. Either an essential oil is pure or it is not.
According to FDA, one cannot make the therapeutic claim because it is a health benefit claim. That being said, the essential oils can be tested by different means for purity. Doterra uses mass spec, while others use gas chromatorgraphy. Mass spec is a more stringent and specific test for detecting impurities that may be present.
P.S. I worked for FDA for 12 years.
HI M Harvey,
doTerra uses Gas Chromatography, Mass Spectrometry, FTIR Scan, and Mircrobial Testing,
Thank you for that review. That is really a lot of research. I've decided to get doTerra because a friend from church used it and her inoperable tumor breast/cervical shrank after using it for two weeks daily. I've had cancer in the past and if I knew about this (EO/doTerra) I would have tried it. I wish our health insurance covered it. Thanks for all your valuable work.
Hi LPatton-
What do Terra oil did your friend use? My mom has an inoperable tumor as well and I am interested in trying to use the oil.
Thanks!
Jen, This is not LPatton, but I just ran across your question and thought you may be looking for an answer and LPatton may not respond. I don't know for sure what LPatton used but, there is a cancer protocol that I have read about and would be happy to share with you. E-mail me at griffin.home@att.net and I would be happy to help you.
Thank you so much for sharing your opinions and experience on these essential oils, Stephanie! My daughter and I just came home from a presentation at our chiropractor's office and we were amazed at learning so much about health and oils. I will be ordering some doTerra oils from our rep, and your comments have helped make my decision. God bless!
Thanks so much for this thorough review. I am considering purchasing the Family Physician kit through doTerra, but am very new to the whole essential oils arena. The amount of information is really overwhelming!
If you are interested, I found a website that is currently running a special discount on the Family Physician Kit http://doterraoils4sale.com. When I buy from this website, I actually receive the package directly from doTERRA. The oils are pricy, so any discounts are nice!
Wondering why you would pay $150 through this website when you can get it for $125 as an IPC (which includes the $35 enrollment fee). You would also get the wholesale price on everything else. Just wondering.
Hi Mary,
It can be very overwhelming. I am happy to answer any questions or just talk through it with you. Please don't hesitate to reach out. You have lots of help at your disposal. :)
Best wishes!
Thought I would let you know that peppermint can reduce milk supply... Since you mentioned taking it and also having a supply issue. The quantity taken in would be a factor, but you did mention that it was strong. See this article: http://kellymom.com/bf/got-milk/herbs_to_avoid/
For some women they do experience a decrease in their milk supply but I would say for most Mom's they don't. If you happen to use peppermint and you experience a decrease basil and fennel can be used to increase it.
I have tried Vetiver with my son... he has Autism. It has definitely helped. Does DoTerra have a 2-5 drop sample of InTune for purchase so we could try it? I would love to see how it works with the Vetiver.
Hi Pam,
I would be happy to send you a sample if you would like to contact me. My email is christy@modern-wellness.com.
Pam, my daughter also has Autism. With Lyme disease I am fighting, she is one of the other main reasons I got the membership deal for the discount. (And quite by accident began to make money because I can't help but share what works for me... health is so important.) Anyway, another huge blessings has been her nighttime bedwetting... when I use balance on her feet (specifically on her big toes in the crease) she stays dry! It didn't work last night, and I realized we forgot to to it last night! It has been working for over 8 weeks, and now I can say that it is certainly due to the Balance blend! The other reason I wanted to reply to you is to let you know there is a blend recipe called peaceful child. It has vetiver in it. I love it for me, and for my kids as well. (I have ADD, as does my daughter...) I can look it up if you find you are interested. I realize you have likely found a rep to work with, and I would not try to interfere there, but am happy to share what I have if you want the info. doterragiftofoils@gmail.com Many blessings to you. :)