Author Topic: Essential Oils  (Read 16014 times)

jamal utah

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Essential Oils
« on: December 01, 2014, 02:11:25 PM »
My wife has recently gotten into using essential oils as cleaning products and for various ailments. She got them through a friend who is a rep for Young Living.  I did some research and it seems like this company has gotten some bad press and that the claims they make for their products aren't fully substantiated.

I like the idea of using natural products around the house, but these oils are f'in expensive.  I found another company called Native American Nutritionals that seems to have a better reputation and the prices are better.  I ordered some for my wife's birthday, but haven't gotten them yet.

Does anyone have experience with essential oils or can comment on their utility?  I like the idea, but don't want to spend money on this if it is all a sham.  Advice would be appreciated.  Thanks.

rocksinmyhead

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Re: Essential Oils
« Reply #1 on: December 01, 2014, 02:28:06 PM »
I like the idea too, primarily the cleaning product part of it, but I also have the gut feeling that some of it may be effective but much of it is scammy. Curious what others have to say.

jamal utah

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Re: Essential Oils
« Reply #2 on: December 01, 2014, 02:31:53 PM »
but I also have the gut feeling that some of it may be effective but much of it is scammy.

My thoughts exactly.

swick

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Re: Essential Oils
« Reply #3 on: December 01, 2014, 03:27:51 PM »
I have some pretty strong thoughts on the issues. I'm going to cut and paste a facebook convo I had with a lady who just started getting into Young Living as a rep, instead of repeating it all:

"I saw your Young Living ad and I wanted to comment, but thought I should just message you instead. I have some pretty strong opinions about ALL the MLM essential oil companies. Not that their products are bad (although really expensive) some of the suggestions for use they promote are flat out dangerous. I figured I'd share what I know and you can do with it what you will.

What you mentioned about the expiry dates is YL propaganda. All essential oils, regardless of source, will degrade over time. They are affected by light, heat, air exposure. The chemical structures do break down leading them to be less effective. It is about 6 months for cold pressed (citrus) oils and can be years for others, some like sandalwood and frankincense and patchouli get better with age. They don't go rancid or expire - unless they are already mixed with a carrier oil.

the problem with Young Living specifically is the info they put out to their sellers is the problem - and most people who sell oils don't have the chemical background or time to look into it themselves. They advocate the use of Essential oils internally, which is actually against the law and should never be done unless it is administered by a naturalpath, herbalist or doctor who is allowed to dispense medicines.

Essential oils don't need to be ingested to work and used in that high of doses Some can lead to both liver and kidney toxicity - (but it makes you go through them faster and therefore buy more)

Also they advocate a therapy called "Rain drop therapy" which is dropping undiluted essential oils on the skin - on the back and along the spine. There are only a few oils you should ever use undiluted - you have to worry about sensitization and skin reactions some can be sever.

The founder of Young livings has an interesting past as well you could lose a full day to researching the man alone.

The terminology they use such as "Therapeutic Grade" doesn't actually mean anything.

In all the aromatherapist organizations, you have to sign saying you will never advocate the raindrop technique or suggest oral use of essential oils unless you have a medical liscense to dispense medicine. Suggesting internal use will void any insurance coverage as well.

Recently the essential oil MLM's have been targeted by the FDA for making false medical claims - while I think the FDA is essentially evil, the claims that YL distributors are making are in some cases very dangerous.

What you have to remember about everything that enters your body is broken down to a chemical level - essential oils are very, very concentrated and very powerful medicine. They can do a lot of good but can also hurt you - you really have to be aware on the contraindications for each oil as they all effect the system differently. They are absorbed by the skin and the olfactory system and the molecules are small enough to pass the blood brain barrier as well as the placenta. Also most essential oils are VERY toxic for cats (their livers can not process them AT ALL) and some are very toxic to dogs. You should know what you are using around your house - especially in areas animals may lick or be breathing in.

It is a neat field of study and using essential oils has changed my life and made my whole family healthier - all I would ask is that you look beyond the Young Living supplied information and do your own research there is a lot to learn!

One I would suggest is always have a bottle of Lavender on hand for the kitchen - it is an analgesic, antiseptic and anti-inflammatory. It is WONDERFUL for burns takes the pain away almost instantly and heals up great. I'm a clutz so I use it all the time.

Also, Helicrysum although super expensive is worth it's weight in gold. I have it in my first aid kit. it is a Cicatrisant, which makes your wounds and cuts heal quickly and scar marks disappear fast. It is also an antiseptic and can help staunch blood flow because it encourage platlet formation. when I chopped the tip off my finger it was the only thing that helped me stop the bleeding.

Personally, I use Vitex as a hormone regulator and help ease the symptoms of the severe PMS I get.

Probably the easiest thing to do would be to find a chart of the contra indications and all the most common oils and have it to refer to. There are oils that Pregnant women should avoid, those people with high or low blood pressure, or if they are on medications - especially wolfarin. Essential oils should not be used around cats at all, their livers cant process them and it can kill them. Peppermint can cause homeopathic remedies not to work...there is a lot to keep track of for sure!"

So, OP, that is my take on it, I do not have all the answers but I am almost finished up the case studies and research paper required for me to finish off my Registered Aromatherapist designation.  Happy to try and help if you have any specific questions.

As far as suppliers - New Directions is a great company - but they have everything so you have to be careful you aren't buying fragrance oils and things like that. Also Mountain Rose herbs has super high quality oils that I have used in my practice. The thing is to really figure out WHAT you want to solve/do with the oils FIRST and then look for the oils suggested. It is really easy to buy a whole bunch of oils and go overboard because they are all so intriguing :)

But I have saved hundred (probably thousands) of dollars in medical issues and being able to make my own gifts for people. It is a lot of fun!
« Last Edit: December 01, 2014, 03:32:28 PM by swick »

smilla

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Re: Essential Oils
« Reply #4 on: December 01, 2014, 03:34:06 PM »
Native American Nutritionals do have a good reputation and I think they'd make a very nice gift but I'd save them for therapeutic use and not use them in household cleaning supplies.  (Unless you have someone with a weak immune system, I'd stick with various combinations of dishsoap, baking soda, vinegar and water.  The very few germs that might be left after proper cleaning make most of us stronger.)

Other more affordable options, without the MLM-style distribution system a la Young Living and doTerra, are Mountain Rose Herbs and New Directions Aromatics. I use New Directions and I am very happy with the quality of their products and the amount of info they offer (but I am no expert).

I use EOs in homemade toiletries and minor first aid & medicine (tooth powder, deodorant, creams, balms & salves & serums) and my n=1 experiment says good enough is good enough.  That said, if I were to get some NAN EOs for a gift I would test and compare with my regular stuff, and maybe save the NAN for special applications.


TL;DR EOs from NAN are a good gift but probably not absolutely necessary for general use.

smilla

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Re: Essential Oils
« Reply #5 on: December 01, 2014, 03:52:22 PM »
As far as suppliers - New Directions is a great company - but they have everything so you have to be careful you aren't buying fragrance oils and things like that. Also Mountain Rose herbs has super high quality oils that I have used in my practice. The thing is to really figure out WHAT you want to solve/do with the oils FIRST and then look for the oils suggested. It is really easy to buy a whole bunch of oils and go overboard because they are all so intriguing :)

OP, one thing I want to emphasize which was alluded to by swick.  Getting into EOs and the side path of homemade toiletries and such, can quickly become very expensive.  Over the long run you can end up ahead but if you don't exercise control, the upfront costs can be yikes!  So +1 to her suggestion (bolded above).

HP

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Re: Essential Oils
« Reply #6 on: December 01, 2014, 03:54:57 PM »
Some can be effective for particular things, but you are correct that Young Living is hugely overpriced and kind of scammy with their information. I refuse to buy from MLM companies, but they draw many people with their claim to have the highest quality (i.e. the purest) oils. In actuality they cannot prove that claim and their reps consistently give dangerous advice, like recommending ingesting them, or claiming they can cure ailments that they cannot cure, and not following basic aromatherapy protocol, like diluting them in carrier oils. Makes me mad.

Personally I use peppermint oil, well diluted in a carrier oil, as a chest salve (or on my feet) for congestion, which works very well. I also have citronella java for homemade bug repellent. I know these things work, and it's not a placebo effect, because they are actually in the storebought versions too, like vaporub and commercial bug spray. I have some other ones as well, but am not so assured of their claims, so they are mostly because they smell nice. Like lavender. (Didn't even touch my sunburn, really disappointing, but it's a nice scent for my deodorant.) I mostly buy from NOW and Aura Cacia because they're easily available to me, but have heard good recommendations for Native American Nutritionals, Plant Therapy, Mountain Rose Herbs, and Beeyoutiful as well.

This site is considered kind of the go-to place for actual reputable information about EOs in my internet circles. http://www.learningabouteos.com/ There are probably others as well, but I haven't spent a lot of time looking into it.

jamal utah

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Re: Essential Oils
« Reply #7 on: December 01, 2014, 04:50:25 PM »
This is great information from everyone.  I figured that there was a lot more to this, but when you google it you get a lot of propaganda type information.  I have been trying to convince my wife to do more research before going hog wild with EOs but I haven't been particularly successful yet.  I will definitely check out that website you suggested HP.  Thanks for all the quick responses.

MayDay

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Re: Essential Oils
« Reply #8 on: December 01, 2014, 06:42:03 PM »
I like them for nice smelling cleaning supplies (basically I just add them to my vinegar spray bottle). My ds likes a dab of lavender at night cto help sleep. Does it work? Who knows but the aura cacia ones are pretty cheap.

The_path_less_taken

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Re: Essential Oils
« Reply #9 on: December 01, 2014, 06:47:59 PM »
This is great information from everyone.  I figured that there was a lot more to this, but when you google it you get a lot of propaganda type information.  I have been trying to convince my wife to do more research before going hog wild with EOs but I haven't been particularly successful yet.  I will definitely check out that website you suggested HP.  Thanks for all the quick responses.

Have you ever considered making your own basic ones?

They sell flower oil stills, and alembic copper stills, just for essential oils. I haven't yet but do intend to next summer.

I did purchase an alcohol still (a tabletop cheapo one) for water distillation since I have a crummy well at this place. But wouldn't want to mix the herbs in that one. It was cheaper to buy the kit when I bought it last year so it did come with some yeast so I guess at some point I will be *forced* to make some rum with it...I wouldn't want to waste that yeast, right? blink blink blink

Costco is selling some organic cinnamon sticks right now with a recipe of tossing a few into rum for a coupla weeks to make extract...going to try that tonight.

Primm

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Re: Essential Oils
« Reply #10 on: December 01, 2014, 06:53:18 PM »
I like them for nice smelling cleaning supplies (basically I just add them to my vinegar spray bottle). My ds likes a dab of lavender at night cto help sleep. Does it work? Who knows but the aura cacia ones are pretty cheap.

Lavender is one of the few essential oils for which there is actual evidence for its efficacy. A lot of others just smell nice, but some do some of the things they are claimed to do.

http://examine.com/supplements/Lavender/

Quote
There appears to be a notable decreased in symptoms of generalized anxiety disorder and with oral ingestion of lavender supplements; aromatherapy seems effective and implicated in reducing state anxiety (acute, situation based, anxiety), but has less robust evidence to support it. One study suggesting oral supplementation was comparable to lorazepam.

jamal utah

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Re: Essential Oils
« Reply #11 on: December 01, 2014, 09:39:38 PM »
This is great information from everyone.  I figured that there was a lot more to this, but when you google it you get a lot of propaganda type information.  I have been trying to convince my wife to do more research before going hog wild with EOs but I haven't been particularly successful yet.  I will definitely check out that website you suggested HP.  Thanks for all the quick responses.

Have you ever considered making your own basic ones?

They sell flower oil stills, and alembic copper stills, just for essential oils. I haven't yet but do intend to next summer.

I did purchase an alcohol still (a tabletop cheapo one) for water distillation since I have a crummy well at this place. But wouldn't want to mix the herbs in that one. It was cheaper to buy the kit when I bought it last year so it did come with some yeast so I guess at some point I will be *forced* to make some rum with it...I wouldn't want to waste that yeast, right? blink blink blink

Costco is selling some organic cinnamon sticks right now with a recipe of tossing a few into rum for a coupla weeks to make extract...going to try that tonight.

I actually have. I brew my own beer and am familiar with alcohol and EO distillation. Like I said my wife is more into EOs than I am. When I mentioned this to her she just rolled her eyes. I think we'd have to become pretty big users before distilling them ourselves made sense. Good suggestion nonetheless. I am all about self sufficentcy

Lyssa

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Re: Essential Oils
« Reply #12 on: December 01, 2014, 11:18:11 PM »
Great information provided by swich. I'd like to add that essential oils can also be terribly dangerous for babies and toddlers. If I remember correctly because of a chemical reaction in their lungs.

swick

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Re: Essential Oils
« Reply #13 on: December 02, 2014, 12:17:22 AM »
Great information provided by swich. I'd like to add that essential oils can also be terribly dangerous for babies and toddlers. If I remember correctly because of a chemical reaction in their lungs.

The most common one to be concerned about with kids is Peppermint, because everyone assumes it is benign. Here is some info taken from the National Association for Holistic Aromatherapy:http://www.naha.org/explore-aromatherapy/about-aromatherapy/most-commonly-used-essential-oils

 NAHA Safety Note for Peppermint Essential Oil:

- Avoid use on children under 30 months of age. The nasal mucosa is an autonomic reflexogen organ, which has a distance action to the heart, lungs and circulation and may lead to sudden apnoea and glottal constriction.

- Direct application of peppermint oil to the nasal area or chest to infants should be avoided because of the risk of apnea, laryngeal and bronchial spasms, acute respiratory distress with cyanosis and respiratory arrest. (The Longwood Herbal Task Force)

- Do not apply undiluted peppermint essential oils to the feet, particularly on infants and children under the age of 12.

- Inhalation of larges doses of menthol may lead to dizziness, confusion, muscle weakness, nausea and double vision. (Natural Standard Research Collaboration, Peppermint oil. Evidence based monograph 2005; Medlineplus)

The information below has been taken from the European Medicines Agency: ASSESSMENT REPORT ON MENTHA X PIPERITA L., AETHEROLEUM

- When used orally, it may cause heartburn, perianal burning, blurred vision, nausea and vomiting. Heartburn is related with the release of the oil in the upper GI tract, which relaxes the lower oesophageal sphincter, facilitating the reflux. The same occurs in the cases of hiatal hernia. This particular undesirable effect is minimized by an appropriate pharmaceutical formulation.  **Peppermint essential oil should always be in an enteric-coated tablet or capsule for internal use although even with enteric-coated capsules, anal burning, rashes, headache, muscle tremors, diarrhea, and ataxia have been reported. (AHPA Botanical Safety Handbook)

- People with gallbladder disease, severe liver damage, gallstones and chronic heartburn should avoid the intake of peppermint oil.

- Menthol and peppermint oil caused burning mouth syndrome, recurrent oral ulceration or a lichenoid reaction, by contact sensitivity in the intra-oral mucosa, in sensitive patients.

- When applied on the skin, it may cause allergic reactions, as skin rashes, contact dermatitis and eye irritation.

- Use in infants or children is not recommended, when inhaled, taken by mouth or if applied on open skin areas, on the face or chest, due to the potential toxicity of the product.

- Peppermint oil should be used with caution. Doses of menthol over 1 g/Kg b.w. may be deadly.
Potential Drug Interactions

- Peppermint leaf essential oil has been shown to slow intestinal transit, which may slow the absorption rate or increase the total absorption of coadministered drugs. (Goerg, K.J. and Spilker)

- Peppermint essential oil in large doses internally may inhibit the drug-metabilizing isoenzyme CYP3A4, leading to increased plasma levels of drugs metabolized by that isoenzyme.

- Coadministration of peppermint leaf essential oil (600mg) and felodipine (a calcium antagonist drug used to control hypertension) moderately increased the plasma concentration of felodipine, possibly through inhibition of the drug-metabilizing isoenzyme CYP3A4. (AHPA Botanical Safety Handbook)

- Peppermint oil, menthol, menthyl acetate, and ascorbyl palmitate were moderately potent reversible inhibitors of in vitro CYP3A4 activity. Grapefruit juice increased the oral bioavailability of felodipine by inhibition of CYP3A4-mediated presystemic drug metabolism. Peppermint oil may also have acted by this mechanism. However, this requires further investigation. Ascorbyl palmitate did not inhibit CYP3A4 activity in vivo.


Spondulix

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Re: Essential Oils
« Reply #14 on: December 02, 2014, 01:11:05 AM »
It probably depends how you use them how long they last. It takes me over a year to go through a bottle. I've bought from Whole Foods or Etsy for like $5-7/bottle.  Maybe don't use them as diffusers, cause the smell goes away about as quickly as when you use them with other products. Here's a couple ways I use them (and have saved me a lot of money on cleaning supplies):

Vinegar, water, and cinnamon oil in a spray bottle - kitchen cleaner/disinfectant (great for countertops, but not granite)
Baking soda with a few drops of EO (put a lid on and shake) - great carpet cleaner, mattress cleaner
Vodka with EO - air freshener

Some don't need more than a few drops to be pretty intense.

Ynari

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Re: Essential Oils
« Reply #15 on: December 02, 2014, 01:39:46 AM »
I usually shop online, at bulk spice or soap making supply stores. (There are tons out there, and some are better for some oils. But you'll find things like lavender everywhere.)

I use them in toiletries and cleaners (mostly homemade bath salts and vodka spray for "dry cleaning" some clothing).  The only ones I've nearly run out of are the ones I use in the bath.  I've also made my own perfumes but that's just a little hobby. 

Research the ones you use thoroughly. They aren't terribly expensive considering you use so little, but buying from a supply store is usually most cost efficient.

NeuroPlastic

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Re: Essential Oils
« Reply #16 on: December 02, 2014, 06:23:29 AM »
We use essential oils.  Like all things great and powerful, they carry risks and can have unintended consequences (http://www.nih.gov/news/pr/jan2007/niehs-31.htm ). 
*** For use with care, attention, and knowlege only ***

rmendpara

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Re: Essential Oils
« Reply #17 on: December 02, 2014, 09:01:12 AM »
My wife has recently gotten into using essential oils as cleaning products and for various ailments. She got them through a friend who is a rep for Young Living.  I did some research and it seems like this company has gotten some bad press and that the claims they make for their products aren't fully substantiated.

I like the idea of using natural products around the house, but these oils are f'in expensive.  I found another company called Native American Nutritionals that seems to have a better reputation and the prices are better.  I ordered some for my wife's birthday, but haven't gotten them yet.

Does anyone have experience with essential oils or can comment on their utility?  I like the idea, but don't want to spend money on this if it is all a sham.  Advice would be appreciated.  Thanks.

Not sure if this counts...

Personally, I use eucalyptus and jojoba. Both are sold at Whole Foods and Trader Joes I believe for under $8 each. I had some really bad skin reactions last winter (assuming the dryness) so I started picking up all kinds of lotion and things to try and help with skin on my face and legs. I mixed a few drops into a bottle of after shave and body lotion and it seems to work great.

Outside of that, I don't really believe in the "therapy" part of it. More accurate description would be agnostic. I don't deny they may work, but it remains to be proven to me.

I estimate the eucalyptus and jojoba oil I bought for a combined $15 should last approximately a year, so I'm definitely not a fanatic believer or anything like that.

Bob W

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Re: Essential Oils
« Reply #18 on: December 02, 2014, 09:13:36 AM »
Murphy's Oil Soap is like 3 buck for a giant bottle.  Works like crap for cleaning.  Did nothing for our cabinets but might be o.k. on wood floors.   We try to house clean like once per year before the holidays.  Not sure what I would oil other than wood.   Most cleaning products are available with citrus oils as the main cleaner very cheap at Wally World.

For the body the best essential oil imho is human oil produced daily in the body.   If you don't use soap to strip your body's oil your fine.   My routine is 1 bar ivory soap per month.  Soap only my hands, hair, face, underarms and privates.  Skin is doing great.

In the winter I convert to water only showers and wash face and hands 1 to 2 times per day.  You would be amazed how nice your skin becomes with water only.   (at least in my case)   

When it is cold, I don't like being wet, so I may go 2-3 days without showers.  Wife never has noticed and she has a picky nose. 

PS. try installing a Merv 13 or above air filter to virtually eliminate house dust.  (we literally dust once per year.)

flamingo25

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Re: Essential Oils
« Reply #19 on: December 02, 2014, 09:20:32 AM »
I echo what a lot of other people here have said.

I enjoy using them for natural cleaning products, homemade toiletries (such as body wash), etc. I also enjoy using a few drops of lavender in a hot bath to relax.

I usually just buy them at whole foods.

I do think a lot of the MLM companies are scammy and I'm very wary of many of their claims.

justajane

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Re: Essential Oils
« Reply #20 on: December 02, 2014, 12:39:57 PM »
Interesting information about peppermint oil. Presumably you can use Vicks Baby or regular Vicks on the feet of children? Or does that count too, since presumably there is some peppermint oil in it?

I use tea tree oil a lot. I dilute it in water and use it on skin yeast infections.

I use eucalyptus oil in the bath for congestion. I didn't realize this until I went to an herbal store, and there are two types of eucalyptus oil, one that is safe for kids and another that isn't. Be sure you get the right one.

With all essential oils, a little goes a long way. I believe the herbal store owner said 4 drops for an entire tub.

The best place to buy cheap essential oils is ebay, at least it used to be. I bought large quantities of orange, lemongrass, lemon, and peppermint for cleaning purposes at least 5 years ago, and I am still working on that batch. Mostly I put a few drops in my stainless sink with some baking soda to clean it. I've also used a small amount of orange oil to clean my dining room table.

swick

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Re: Essential Oils
« Reply #21 on: December 02, 2014, 01:28:37 PM »
Interesting information about peppermint oil. Presumably you can use Vicks Baby or regular Vicks on the feet of children? Or does that count too, since presumably there is some peppermint oil in it?

I use tea tree oil a lot. I dilute it in water and use it on skin yeast infections.

I use eucalyptus oil in the bath for congestion. I didn't realize this until I went to an herbal store, and there are two types of eucalyptus oil, one that is safe for kids and another that isn't. Be sure you get the right one.

It is Eucalyptus Radiata which is safer for children. There are several other Eucalyptus chemotypes out there as well.

I can't really speak as to the Vicks - except for to follow the manufactures dosing recommendations I would think they would be okay, but there have been issues with commercial preparations such as Olbas - mostly from misuse and over dosing.

One argument I hear all the time for people ingesting essential oils is "Well they use it as a food additive" which is completely true. Most extracts are EO's diluted in alcohol. They are used frequently as a flavoring agent. The thing is is the GRAS (Generally Recognized as Safe) recommendations for food use is in the PPM (Parts Per Million) You simply can't get those miniscule does in a home level.

The occasional culinary use of some oils n your food is fine if you know what you are doing - it's how I first got interested in EO's - not having access to fresh herbs as much as I would like. Was bummed to find out many of the culinary herbs are pretty toxic if ingested - but it opened up a whole smelly world :)


HP

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Re: Essential Oils
« Reply #22 on: December 02, 2014, 06:37:38 PM »
Interesting information about peppermint oil. Presumably you can use Vicks Baby or regular Vicks on the feet of children? Or does that count too, since presumably there is some peppermint oil in it?

Someone told me lately that regular Vicks in contradicted for children because of the menthol, but that Vicks Baby does not contain Menthol, or contains a less dangerous strain/form of menthol? I've never bought or needed it, so I don't have a label to look at to confirm. People who like to use essential oils say to use a specific strain of fir (there are multiple and some are unsafe), instead of peppermint, that is safe for children and is similarly effective for de-congesting. I'm tentatively planning on getting some once my peppermint is gone, because I like the smell better anyway. Rather'd smell like a Christmas tree than a candy cane. ;)

lizzzi

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Re: Essential Oils
« Reply #23 on: December 02, 2014, 07:03:41 PM »
The only EO that I use is some Aura Cacia lavender oil. I put a few drops in a spray bottle of water, and every morning when I get up, I fold back the bedcovers and mist the sheets and the pillows. If it is warm enough outside, I always try to open a window,too,  if only for a few minutes. When the room is aired and I'm sure the linens are not damp, I make the bed. It keeps it amazingly fresh and clean. The bed doesn't smell like lavender at night; it's just fresh and pleasant. When I'm going to be away for a few days, I mist the whole house--it's nice to come home to. Again, not flowery--just fresh.

justajane

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Re: Essential Oils
« Reply #24 on: December 02, 2014, 08:20:11 PM »
Interesting information about peppermint oil. Presumably you can use Vicks Baby or regular Vicks on the feet of children? Or does that count too, since presumably there is some peppermint oil in it?

Someone told me lately that regular Vicks in contradicted for children because of the menthol, but that Vicks Baby does not contain Menthol, or contains a less dangerous strain/form of menthol? I've never bought or needed it, so I don't have a label to look at to confirm. People who like to use essential oils say to use a specific strain of fir (there are multiple and some are unsafe), instead of peppermint, that is safe for children and is similarly effective for de-congesting. I'm tentatively planning on getting some once my peppermint is gone, because I like the smell better anyway. Rather'd smell like a Christmas tree than a candy cane. ;)

Thanks for this. Just in case, I'll stop using the regular on my kiddos and just stick with the baby kind. It smells better anyway.

logansandres

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Re: Essential Oils
« Reply #25 on: February 05, 2017, 05:50:40 AM »
When my wife was pregnanat she used essential oils to battle morning sickness (any time sickness, really). But we didn't use any kind of commercially sold oils, sicne those are not as natural as they want to sound. We used the blends described here http://natadviser.com/essential-oils-for-nausea-vomiting-upset-stomach/#recipe-1-nausea-remedy-blend . but we used natural oils made by a close friend in a most natural way you can do it.

herbgeek

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Re: Essential Oils
« Reply #26 on: February 05, 2017, 06:17:27 AM »
I use herbs and essential oils for minor ailments and cleaning.  I have found Aura Cacia and Mountain Rose to be consistently good, and less expensive than MLM oils which of course have a built in overhead.

I don't take EOs internally, but I do use them topically (always diluted).  One book I like is Hands On Healing Remedies published by Storey Publishing.  They have a vaporub and a cold balm for the feet which I make each year.

KBecks

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Re: Essential Oils
« Reply #27 on: February 05, 2017, 05:38:25 PM »
My neighbor, who I want to be friendly with, is a YL consultant.  I bought a kit from her and go to some of her events, but I am not purchasing a lot of stuff from her.

I recently bought some NOW brand oils on Amazon that get good reviews there, and you seem to get more product for less money.

I do not ingest oils and mostly this is for cleaning products / scenting the home.

I look forward to reading the other replies. 

swick

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Re: Essential Oils
« Reply #28 on: February 05, 2017, 05:58:55 PM »
http://aromatherapyunited.org/injury-reports/injury-reports-2016/

2016 EO Injury Report, worth a look at. Basically, when you listen to MLM EO sellers, your chances of using oils wrong rise substantially. Don't Ingest. Don't put on your body undiluted (no, not even as a massage if you do a layer of coconut oil first)

Check your sources and respect their concentration.

whiskeyjack

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Re: Essential Oils
« Reply #29 on: February 06, 2017, 01:59:46 AM »
I want to second what everyone else has said about safety concerns and not ingesting them.  That said, I buy them for soap/lotions from Camden Grey and Brambleberry (soap making supply) for far less than you'll find in a retail store.  This probably works best if you want somewhat larger quantities.

lizzzi

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Re: Essential Oils
« Reply #30 on: February 06, 2017, 05:38:50 AM »
Murphy's Oil Soap is like 3 buck for a giant bottle.  Works like crap for cleaning.  Did nothing for our cabinets but might be o.k. on wood floors.   We try to house clean like once per year before the holidays.  Not sure what I would oil other than wood.   Most cleaning products are available with citrus oils as the main cleaner very cheap at Wally World.

For the body the best essential oil imho is human oil produced daily in the body.   If you don't use soap to strip your body's oil your fine.   My routine is 1 bar ivory soap per month.  Soap only my hands, hair, face, underarms and privates.  Skin is doing great.

In the winter I convert to water only showers and wash face and hands 1 to 2 times per day.  You would be amazed how nice your skin becomes with water only.   (at least in my case) 

 

When it is cold, I don't like being wet, so I may go 2-3 days without showers.  Wife never has noticed and she has a picky nose. 

PS. try installing a Merv 13 or above air filter to virtually eliminate house dust.  (we literally dust once per year.)

Murphy's Oil Soap is the best product out there for cleaning leather shoes or horse tack. Put some on a barely damp sponge and wipe the soiled leather. Then use a damp, clean sponge to wipe off the soap and dirt.

frooglepoodle

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Re: Essential Oils
« Reply #31 on: February 06, 2017, 06:55:36 AM »
Thank you all, especially swick, for sharing your expertise! I don't use many EOs but spent last summer using citronella EO as bug repellent. I didn't have any adverse effects but am going to do more research and dilute with a carrier oil from now on.

KBecks

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Re: Essential Oils
« Reply #32 on: February 06, 2017, 07:11:15 AM »
There are essential oil recipes for bug repellent and this is one of the things I'm interested in. I'd like to make a diluted spray on.


swick

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Re: Essential Oils
« Reply #33 on: February 06, 2017, 08:20:05 AM »
There are essential oil recipes for bug repellent and this is one of the things I'm interested in. I'd like to make a diluted spray on.

I have a recipe I have developed for bug spray. All my notebooks are packed up right now as I'm switching offices, but send me a PM if I haven't shared it by, say, May :)

It works incredibly well (well tested in Northern BC, Mosquito/black fly country) although it has Catnip in it (the secret ingredient) which is fairly expensive and somewhat hard to find as an EO, but makes a huge difference.  I ususally do the blend and then dilute it in a spray bottle with water (you have to shake it up really good before each use as the EO and water don't stay mixed for long) Anyways, I'll keep an eye out and post the recipe when I find it :)

Thank you all, especially swick, for sharing your expertise! I don't use many EOs but spent last summer using citronella EO as bug repellent. I didn't have any adverse effects but am going to do more research and dilute with a carrier oil from now on.

Your welcome :) I love talking about this stuff, and it makes it a whole lot easier when I don't have to start with "these are all the reasons MLM sellers are dangerous and expensive" It always leads to awkward convos!

frooglepoodle

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Re: Essential Oils
« Reply #34 on: February 06, 2017, 08:29:50 AM »
There are essential oil recipes for bug repellent and this is one of the things I'm interested in. I'd like to make a diluted spray on.

I have a recipe I have developed for bug spray. All my notebooks are packed up right now as I'm switching offices, but send me a PM if I haven't shared it by, say, May :)

It works incredibly well (well tested in Northern BC, Mosquito/black fly country) although it has Catnip in it (the secret ingredient) which is fairly expensive and somewhat hard to find as an EO, but makes a huge difference.  I ususally do the blend and then dilute it in a spray bottle with water (you have to shake it up really good before each use as the EO and water don't stay mixed for long) Anyways, I'll keep an eye out and post the recipe when I find it :)

Thank you all, especially swick, for sharing your expertise! I don't use many EOs but spent last summer using citronella EO as bug repellent. I didn't have any adverse effects but am going to do more research and dilute with a carrier oil from now on.

Your welcome :) I love talking about this stuff, and it makes it a whole lot easier when I don't have to start with "these are all the reasons MLM sellers are dangerous and expensive" It always leads to awkward convos!

Ooh, I will look forward to the big spray recipe!! Is it safe to use for children? My son will be 2 this summer and gets welts on his skin from certain bug bites. They didn't seem to bother him last year but I'm concerned he might scratch them just because they are there as he gets older.

iris lily

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Re: Essential Oils
« Reply #35 on: February 06, 2017, 12:32:56 PM »
I was just going to say, withhout reading the entire thread, that most of the EO thing is all about  an MLM company separating you from your money for frap ypu dnt need.  But then remembered that there is an actual knowledgeable person on this site who instills comfidence in use of EO. and tHENI saw that Swick showed up!

So, it's all good.

swick

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Re: Essential Oils
« Reply #36 on: February 06, 2017, 01:23:34 PM »

Ooh, I will look forward to the big spray recipe!! Is it safe to use for children? My son will be 2 this summer and gets welts on his skin from certain bug bites. They didn't seem to bother him last year but I'm concerned he might scratch them just because they are there as he gets older.

I'll have to double check once I find my recipe. I would say I'd be comfortable with it if it was only sprayed on clothing and not on direct skin. I also wouldn't' spray anywhere close to eyes and nose.  But again, I'd have to look and see if there are any contraindications. There is a lot of discussion on age appropriate use, some think no EO's should be used for children under 3, others think highly diluted EO's are safe. here is a summary of some of the different views: http://www.aromaweb.com/articles/aromatherapyforchildren.asp

I was just going to say, withhout reading the entire thread, that most of the EO thing is all about  an MLM company separating you from your money for frap ypu dnt need.  But then remembered that there is an actual knowledgeable person on this site who instills comfidence in use of EO. and tHENI saw that Swick showed up!

So, it's all good.

It is an ongoing battle. What it basically comes down to is, would you purchase pharmaceuticals and trust the advice from someone who may have no training and a vested monetary interested in selling to you? Becuase that is basically what EO's are.


I do not ingest oils and mostly this is for cleaning products / scenting the home.

I look forward to reading the other replies. 

Sorry, I didn't address this earlier, you do want to be careful of using EO's for home cleaning if you have pets, especially cats. Their kidneys have a really hard time processing some of the chemicals in EO's and they can suffer kidney damage very easily.

Always make sure your space is well ventilated and pets, kids, anyone really, has another place they can go to.

That being said, Cats usually won't stick around somewhere you are using oils. I've been using citrus and Cinnamon oils in my carport to keep out the neighbours cat who seems to think spraying in our carport is a fun pastime.

Johnez

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Re: Essential Oils
« Reply #37 on: June 23, 2018, 12:13:34 AM »
There are essential oil recipes for bug repellent and this is one of the things I'm interested in. I'd like to make a diluted spray on.

I have a recipe I have developed for bug spray. All my notebooks are packed up right now as I'm switching offices, but send me a PM if I haven't shared it by, say, May :)

It works incredibly well (well tested in Northern BC, Mosquito/black fly country) although it has Catnip in it (the secret ingredient) which is fairly expensive and somewhat hard to find as an EO, but makes a huge difference.  I ususally do the blend and then dilute it in a spray bottle with water (you have to shake it up really good before each use as the EO and water don't stay mixed for long) Anyways, I'll keep an eye out and post the recipe when I find it :)


You ever find that recipe @swick ?

Case

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Re: Essential Oils
« Reply #38 on: June 23, 2018, 07:56:15 PM »
My wife has recently gotten into using essential oils as cleaning products and for various ailments. She got them through a friend who is a rep for Young Living.  I did some research and it seems like this company has gotten some bad press and that the claims they make for their products aren't fully substantiated.

I like the idea of using natural products around the house, but these oils are f'in expensive.  I found another company called Native American Nutritionals that seems to have a better reputation and the prices are better.  I ordered some for my wife's birthday, but haven't gotten them yet.

Does anyone have experience with essential oils or can comment on their utility?  I like the idea, but don't want to spend money on this if it is all a sham.  Advice would be appreciated.  Thanks.

I am a chemist, working in the chemical industry.

“Essential oils” is a term that is mostly used as a marketing startegy.  It’s used to convince the sucker consumer into buying their products.  The industry that sells essential oils to a very high degree makes unsubstantiated claims.  Read: they are scamming you.

Essentiall oils are composed of chemicals, just like everything else in the world (including ‘natural’ things like people, or vegetables, etc).  Some are toxic.  It often depends on concentration.  “The dose makes the poison”. 

In order to understand their safety, you need to research each individual component.  And only buy from companies that will substantiate their claims.

‘Essential oils’ make hippies feel better about themselves,  but in reality theyare typically the suckers who are paying more money for something that isnt as safe as they think it is, and very frequently doesn’t have the promised benefit (in regards to massive health benefits).  If they did, doctors would be prescribing this stuff to people!
« Last Edit: June 23, 2018, 08:03:19 PM by Case »

Case

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Re: Essential Oils
« Reply #39 on: June 24, 2018, 06:30:32 AM »
I have some pretty strong thoughts on the issues. I'm going to cut and paste a facebook convo I had with a lady who just started getting into Young Living as a rep, instead of repeating it all:

"I saw your Young Living ad and I wanted to comment, but thought I should just message you instead. I have some pretty strong opinions about ALL the MLM essential oil companies. Not that their products are bad (although really expensive) some of the suggestions for use they promote are flat out dangerous. I figured I'd share what I know and you can do with it what you will.

What you mentioned about the expiry dates is YL propaganda. All essential oils, regardless of source, will degrade over time. They are affected by light, heat, air exposure. The chemical structures do break down leading them to be less effective. It is about 6 months for cold pressed (citrus) oils and can be years for others, some like sandalwood and frankincense and patchouli get better with age. They don't go rancid or expire - unless they are already mixed with a carrier oil.

the problem with Young Living specifically is the info they put out to their sellers is the problem - and most people who sell oils don't have the chemical background or time to look into it themselves. They advocate the use of Essential oils internally, which is actually against the law and should never be done unless it is administered by a naturalpath, herbalist or doctor who is allowed to dispense medicines.

Essential oils don't need to be ingested to work and used in that high of doses Some can lead to both liver and kidney toxicity - (but it makes you go through them faster and therefore buy more)

Also they advocate a therapy called "Rain drop therapy" which is dropping undiluted essential oils on the skin - on the back and along the spine. There are only a few oils you should ever use undiluted - you have to worry about sensitization and skin reactions some can be sever.

The founder of Young livings has an interesting past as well you could lose a full day to researching the man alone.

The terminology they use such as "Therapeutic Grade" doesn't actually mean anything.

In all the aromatherapist organizations, you have to sign saying you will never advocate the raindrop technique or suggest oral use of essential oils unless you have a medical liscense to dispense medicine. Suggesting internal use will void any insurance coverage as well.

Recently the essential oil MLM's have been targeted by the FDA for making false medical claims - while I think the FDA is essentially evil, the claims that YL distributors are making are in some cases very dangerous.

What you have to remember about everything that enters your body is broken down to a chemical level - essential oils are very, very concentrated and very powerful medicine. They can do a lot of good but can also hurt you - you really have to be aware on the contraindications for each oil as they all effect the system differently. They are absorbed by the skin and the olfactory system and the molecules are small enough to pass the blood brain barrier as well as the placenta. Also most essential oils are VERY toxic for cats (their livers can not process them AT ALL) and some are very toxic to dogs. You should know what you are using around your house - especially in areas animals may lick or be breathing in.

It is a neat field of study and using essential oils has changed my life and made my whole family healthier - all I would ask is that you look beyond the Young Living supplied information and do your own research there is a lot to learn!

One I would suggest is always have a bottle of Lavender on hand for the kitchen - it is an analgesic, antiseptic and anti-inflammatory. It is WONDERFUL for burns takes the pain away almost instantly and heals up great. I'm a clutz so I use it all the time.

Also, Helicrysum although super expensive is worth it's weight in gold. I have it in my first aid kit. it is a Cicatrisant, which makes your wounds and cuts heal quickly and scar marks disappear fast. It is also an antiseptic and can help staunch blood flow because it encourage platlet formation. when I chopped the tip off my finger it was the only thing that helped me stop the bleeding.

Personally, I use Vitex as a hormone regulator and help ease the symptoms of the severe PMS I get.

Probably the easiest thing to do would be to find a chart of the contra indications and all the most common oils and have it to refer to. There are oils that Pregnant women should avoid, those people with high or low blood pressure, or if they are on medications - especially wolfarin. Essential oils should not be used around cats at all, their livers cant process them and it can kill them. Peppermint can cause homeopathic remedies not to work...there is a lot to keep track of for sure!"

So, OP, that is my take on it, I do not have all the answers but I am almost finished up the case studies and research paper required for me to finish off my Registered Aromatherapist designation.  Happy to try and help if you have any specific questions.

As far as suppliers - New Directions is a great company - but they have everything so you have to be careful you aren't buying fragrance oils and things like that. Also Mountain Rose herbs has super high quality oils that I have used in my practice. The thing is to really figure out WHAT you want to solve/do with the oils FIRST and then look for the oils suggested. It is really easy to buy a whole bunch of oils and go overboard because they are all so intriguing :)

But I have saved hundred (probably thousands) of dollars in medical issues and being able to make my own gifts for people. It is a lot of fun!

aromatherapy is a field of pseudoscience, mostly quackery, and false hope (along with the majority of alternative medicine).  There are veins of truth in there, but they are hampered by the huge amount of practicioners of the psuedoscience who continually propogate the false truths.  Some of the oils are indeed complex chemical cocktails, and aromatherapy practicioners really have no clue what they are getting into.  If the FDA is cracking down on this, its for good reason.  From what i can tell, studies on aromatherapy are pretty limited.  Its not enough to have a study here and there; there need to be many studies on each essential oil, and only from that can the scientific community eventually come to a conclusion.  This is the scientific process and it is the only way to legitimately claim substantiate.
In the absence of this, it is irresponsible to state anything like “this will give you this benefit”.  And from what i can tell, aside from a few exceptions, aromatherapy mostly just smells nice and gives a mood elevation from placebo effect.  These are good things, but definitely it should not be oversold, and by the way many of these aroma molecules are carcinogens without long terms studies.

The FDA is not evil, but is generally looking to use real science to guide the public.
Aromatherapists and the various other contingencies of quacks do harm to the progress of humanity by keeping us stuck in the stone age.


« Last Edit: June 24, 2018, 09:53:25 AM by Case »

use2betrix

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Re: Essential Oils
« Reply #40 on: June 24, 2018, 12:29:39 PM »
I have not looked into their actual effectiveness aside from nearly every person I’ve met that has tried them (and doesn’t sell) has had nothing positive to say. Not to mention, every person that sells it I know is also insanely annoying about it, similar to Rhoden Fields.

My aunt recently had some good friends from their old town come stay with them for a few days. Apparently the friend had just started selling essential oils and like the whole time she wouldn’t stop talking about it and constantly rubbing oils on her husband to cure all these ailments. It was apparently awkward and kind of ruined the visit.