3 Myths About Essential Oils Debunked
Are you wondering if essential oils are just a fad? Do you worry that it's an overpriced scam? Have you heard that—at best—it's pseudoscience?
I’ve heard all of this and more throughout my journey to wellness with essential oils. Let's address these claims one by one.
Myth 1: Essential Oils are a Fad
Essential oils have been used by numerous cultures for thousands of years. The earliest documentation of use dates back to the ancient civilizations in Egypt, Rome and China.
Archaeologists recently excavated a papyrus scroll dating back to 1500 BCE, which contains lists of uses for essential oils.
Similarly, ancient Romans routinely diffused essential oils such as lavender, chamomile, and frankincense to purify the air of their homes and bathhouses.
Written during the reign of China’s Huang Ti between 2697-2597 BCE, the famous “Yellow Emperor’s Book of Internal Medicine” features the blending and using of an assortment of essential oils. The book is still widely referred to by Eastern medicine practitioners today.
Reports of fewer incidences of diseases in the south of France (where lavender is grown) prompted physicians to conduct laboratory tests concerning the anti-bacterial benefits of essential oils, in the late 19th century.
Once scoffed at as a new-age fad, aromatherapy has earned its place among reputable alternative methods to over-the-counter drugs and ointments commonly prescribed for minor aches and discomforts. Essential oils are now commonly considered a safe and effective way to prevent and treat numerous ailments, and to provide relief from stress and mental clarity.
In short, with educated and safe use, essential oils can be trusted and incorporated into daily care. Unlike passing trends in the health and wellness field, essential oils stand the test of time.
Myth 2: They're an overpriced scam
To discuss this I need to break down the issue a little more. Let's start by looking at the serious discrepancy in prices between different essential oils brands. There are a few things that contribute to the enormous price discrepancy: quality and marketing.
QUALITY
Yes, some essential oils are better quality than others. Whether their organic and the way they are distilled are two major factors in determining their quality.
Essential oils are the product of a volatile liquid being extracted and distilled from the singular leaf, fruit, flower, wood, bark, or root of a plant. A good quality oil and a trustworthy company will provide third party testing for each of their oils right on their website or will be willing to provide you with this information if requested.
After the liquid is extracted through the distillation process it can be administered through inhalation or skin absorption, (and—in some unique cases—ingested under the guidance of a licensed aromatherapist).
MARKETING
The thing that ups the price more aside from quality? The totally misleading marketing BS that some of the bigger companies use. There is no such thing as "therapeutic grade" essential oils. This is a meaningless phrase tacked onto marketing campaigns. It is not regulated by any agency. Don't fall for it.
Another misleading word used in marketing essential oils is "pure." This word is regulated and it can be used to describe any essential oil that is at least 5% pure. So, if it doesn't say 100% pure, you can pretty much guarantee it is not "pure."
Here's another marketing trick that some companies use to sell more: promoting ingesting oils or using them neat.
Unless you have been directed by a licensed aromatherapist to take your essential oils internally, it's not necessary. It can actually be quite dangerous. You'll also use up your precious oils much more quickly and need to purchase much more often.
Now what was that I said about using oils neat? This just means you use them without a carrier oil. Carrier oils are more neutral. They dilute the essential oils and can help your body to absorb them better. Again, if you use your oils neat you will use them much more quickly and need to purchase them much more often.
It's marketing BS.
This myth is half true, I guess. But if you understand the marketing aspect, you can avoid the companies that need to pay distributors and individual sellers (not to mention enormous insurance premiums). You can find several companies that provide affordable, high-quality products. My favorite brand is Edens Garden (this is not an affiliate link I just really like them).
THE ALTERNATIVE
When looking at the cost of essential oils I like to compare it to the alternative costs. It's sort of like investing in your future health by avoiding the chemicals in traditional cleaning supplies and candles and bath and beauty products.
Quite a few companies are incorporating essential oils into everyday products so you can easily add essential oils in your daily life. Certain plant extracts are used in many of the recommended supplements, vitamins, and healing compounds you probably already use. And if you rely on pain relievers, disinfectants, and other aids to promote healing and immunity, you can sub oils for these as well.
You can save a bit more money by making a lot of these yourself. I mean, you already bought the oils, right?
Myth 3: Aromatherapy is a Pseudocscience
Let me start by saying that the use of essential oils should not replace doctor prescribed treatments. For minor aches and ailments though, there is no denying the benefits that can be seen from including essential oil in your health and wellness kit.
Yes, the scientific evaluation in the case of essential oils is limited when compared to Western medicine. However, multiple studies conducted over the years have revealed the significantly beneficial properties of certain essential oils. AND as the popularity of using oils increases more and more studies are being conducted.
A study conducted in 2014 revealed the ability of frankincense and sandalwood oils to combat cancer cells in the bladder and prostrate. This study from early 2018 on rats found that peppermint essential oil could be an effective treatment for IBS. In 2017, scientists tested the already documented antimicrobial properties of cinnamon and ginger essential oils to determine the mechanics behind it. Tea tree essential oil has been proven to inhibit fungal growth and prevent candida-related infections, while clinical trials suggest lavender to be a natural antidepressant.
Debunked!
Take the time to research the many essential oils available, and their noteworthy properties, to decide what oils and blends are right for you. You may want to invest in an oil diffuser and experiment with different drops of essential oils to purify the air and induce peace and calm in your household. You can also explore the many oils used in relieving various skin conditions and bodily discomforts, as well as appropriate carrier oils used in dilution.
No matter what you ultimately decide on, the worldwide use of essential oils is well-deserving of the recognition its finally receiving.
Aromatherapy Accessories
Imagine with me, won't you?
Improved state of emotional and physical wellness.
Being inspired to choose joy in your everyday moments.
Looking and feeling beautiful and confident.
Many people are finding benefits cosmetically, spiritually, and emotionally from integrating essential oils and essential oil jewelry into their daily routines. At Mumbles & Things, I have personally experienced the benefits of essential oils and aromatherapy firsthand, and want to help you incorporate them into YOUR life (in a fashionable way, of course).
I know that each drop of your essential oils is valuable. I want to help you make those drops last in a high quality piece of diffuser jewelry. You won't only look beautiful wearing your favorite aromatherapy accessory, but the porous lava stone will allow you to enjoy the scent of your essential oils for days!
When you want to achieve personal aromatherapy benefits throughout the day, Mumbles & Things has what you need. Pick out your favorite diffuser bracelet and start diffusing in style today!
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