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Young Living Essential Oils Safety
Young Living essential oils are wonderfully aromatic and made from all-natural plant matter, such as petals, leaves, and grasses. You should be concerned with what is used around your family and pets, or added to yourenvironment, foods and beverages – that includes the use of essential oils. We agree, as well.
The great thing about Young Living essential oils is the Seed to Seal® validation program that promotes Young Living’s assurance that best practices are used in harvest, production, and processing of its therapeutic grade essential oils for the highest quality. This verification is overseen through Young Living’s Seed to Seal® program.
Natural Essential Oils
Essential oils are highly aromatic and all-natural products derived from plant matter like petals and grasses. But, keep in mind that essential oils are also highly concentrated extracts from plants. So, it is critical that you remember that correct dosage, usage, and application are necessary to receive the valuable benefits each essential oil offers.
Young Living oils are produced using our proprietary Seed to Seal method to ensure our users get only the highest quality, purest oils in the world. There are thousands of uses for essential oils. However, to make the most of your essential oils, there are some basics you should know as you begin your essential oil journey.
Essential Oils Safety Explained
Modern research and centuries of history have revealed that most essential oils are safe for diffusion, aromatics, and topical applications. Mi Essential Oils firmly believes in the health and benefits of therapeutic essential oils. We also believe in the safety of these oils when used correctly. However, be aware that essential oils are extremely potent oils and care should be taken when using them.
Topical Skin Application
When putting therapeutic essential oil on your skin, most essential oils can be applied undiluted. However, if you are sensitive or new to essential oil use, you may prefer to first dilute 2 or 3 drops of pure essential oil with a vegetable oil that will serve as your carrier oil. Just combine the essential oil with equal parts of coconut oil, grapeseed oil, V6 oil or jojoba oil and apply to your skin. Some of the most affective locations on the body to apply therapeutic essential oils include the neck, temples, scalp, abdomen, wrists, chest, and Vita Flex areas on the feet and hands.
Aromatic Application
Therapeutic essential oils are generally safe to diffuse or inhale. In fact, inhalation of essential oils is an incredibly effective way to bring about healing and wellness to the body. Why? You may ask. The very name “essential” or “volatile” oil may be the answer, based on scientific research.
Essential oils are also called volatile oils. Essential or volatile means that the oil tends to vaporize quickly. This is the reason an essential oil can be smelled across the room quickly when applied, versus a “stable” oil, such as avocado or vegetable oils. An essential or volatile oil has a very small molecule that may be able to pass the blood-brain barrier and affect the body.
To use as an aromatic, there are several options. First, you can diffuse about 5 drops in an ultrasonic diffuser or oil burner. A second method is to apply 1 to 2 drops into your palms and deeply inhale for a few minutes. A final method is to simply inhale the essential oil directly from its bottle for a few minutes.
There are many benefits of essential oils but when it comes to ingesting you want to be very cautious. Some essential oils safety has been categorized by the FDA as safe, and you might use very small amounts in water or drinks (such as lemon or ginger oil).
Pregnant women, infants, toddlers, and children are all likely to be more sensitive to the effects of essential oils. Due to an increase in sensitivity, some oils should be avoided by children, women who are breastfeeding, or the elderly. Please read labels carefully before using any oil if you’re pregnant, breastfeeding or giving oils to your children.
FDA Approval for Therapeutic Grade Essential Oils
The FDA (Food and Drug Administration) has gone further and acknowledged that certain essential oils are safe for consumption and as food additives. These therapeutic essential oils are designated with a governmental identification known as GRAS (“Generally Recognized as Safe”) by the FDA. GRAS is the FDA’s designation for approved essential oils considered safe to ingest.
Young Living’s Vitality Essential Oils
In January 2019, Young Living was proud to announce that its Vitality™ line of dietary therapeutic essential oils have been awarded the Non-GMO Project verification in the United States and Canada. This means that the Vitality line can be officially ingested.
Although Young Living’s research believes that most essential oils are safe for human consumption at therapeutic levels, the specific packaging of Young Living’s Vitality line-up are specifically packaged to give assurance to you that these essential oils have been given the FDA’s GRAS approval. Young Living has conveniently placed its Vitality™ essential oils into four convenient categories: Herb Vitality; Spice Vitality; Citrus Vitality; and Supplement Vitality.
Each Young Living Vitality™ essential oil contains directions for use on its label. Following label directions will maximize safety and minimize any potential adverse reaction, to further assure you will receive the natural benefit of the essential oil.
There is no difference in the purity and quality standards between the Young Living pure essential oils and the Vitality™ essential oils. The differentiated labels just make it clear that the essential oil has been FDA approved for internal use.
What Essential Oils Should
I Avoid Ingesting?
Most essential oils are safe. However, there are a very few essential oils that should not be ingested at any level due to their toxicity. The specific amounts for each toxic essential oil do vary.
When you use these otherwise toxic essential oils externally or topically (even undiluted) it is unlikely that there will be any adverse effect. However, we want to bring to your attention what our research has revealed are essential oils absolutely to be avoided through ingestion, without a doctor’s oversight. The following listing should be used cautiously and under the supervision of a naturopathic physician, certified herbalist, or qualified aromatherapist.
Calamus (Acorus Calamus):
also known as sweet flag. There is an American calamus and a European calamus. Essential oil from the European calamus plant has been researched to determine a high level of the terpene chemical thujone. Thujone is believed to be toxic to the nervous system and possibly cancer-causing. Although the American calamus is determined safe from thujone, the untrained should taking all calamus oil internally.
Camphor (Cinnamomum Camphora):
The FDA recommends camphor oil be used topically, only. It is one of the strongest essential oils available. Much research into camphor’s toxicity if ingested in high dosages, especially to children, is well-documented. It can cause toxicity to the nervous system and result in nausea, vomiting, confusion, stupor and convulsions. Topical application is considered generally safe by the FDA.
Pennyroyal (Mentha Pulegium):
Pennyroyal is used as a mosquito repellant and insecticide. When the leaves are broken, an aroma close to spearmint is released. A tea infusion with the leaves is considered safe. However, the essential oil from Pennyroyal is considered highly toxic to the liver, lungs, and kidneys and can result in death if ingested.
Tansy (Tanacetum Vulgare):
Tansy is also known as ragwort. Tansy contains a toxic chemical called thujone. Tansy, if ingested, can cause abortion of fetus, kidney and liver damage, confusion, vomiting, dizziness, seizures, and death.
Wintergreen (Gaultheria Procumbens L):
The fragrant essential oil of Wintergreen contains a highly potent level of methyl salicylate (98%), in the same chemical class as aspirin. Although the FDA has approved a specific level for food grade use, extremely high levels of ingestion can be toxic to the liver and kidney. For this reason, ingestion of Wintergreen essential oil should be avoided.
Wormseed (Chenopodium Ambrosioides):
Wormseed was historically used to flush out roundworm, hookworm and tapeworm. Although its effect is well-noted, its toxicity to the kidneys, liver, nervous system and heart resulted in its medical use in even small doses.
Wormwood (Artemisia Absinthium):
Wormwood is also known as absinthe. Based on disputed research over the years, its essential oil for ingestion has been banned. The Wormwood essential oil is considered highly toxic if ingested due to its chemical component of thujone. High doses of Wormwood essential oil have been associated with seizures, impulsivity, and death. It is also considered addictive.
Essential Oils Dos and Don’ts
Young Living oils are the highest quality on the market, and as such they are quite potent and powerful. There are some key things to understand as you begin using essential oils in your daily life. Here are a few guidelines:
Essential Oil Dos
Do practice using your essential oils aromatically, topically, and internally (by ingesting them).
Do test 1 drop of pure essential oil on a small patch of skin first (such as the inside wrist). Skin sensitivity is variable with everyone. If the skin feels sensitive or turns red, apply a vegetable oil (V-6™ or olive) to the area to dilute.
Do use only 1 new essential oil at a time at first. This will help you to determine any sensitivity and your body’s response. Wait at least 30 minutes before trying another new oil.
Do use precautions with pure citrus oils, as they may compound the effects of sun exposure.
Do review individual label directions or check with your health professional before using essential oils if you have a serious medical condition or are pregnant, nursing, or planning to become pregnant.
Do consult a health professional about any serious disease or injury before beginning essential oil use.
Do mix 5 to 10 drops of essential oil first to 1/4 cup of Young Living Bath & Shower Gel Base or Epsom salt before adding to running water for bathing.
Do give animals access to ventilation or an exit when diffusing essential oils in a room they are present.
Do always use 100% therapeutic grade essential oils.
Do use Young Living Vitality™ essential oils for internal use.
Do use Young Living Vitality™ essential oils in the kitchen and in your recipes! Check out our blog to learn some great essential oil recipes to cure what ails you.
Do use essential oils packaged in an amber or cobalt glass container.
Do store pure essential oils in a cool, dry and dark place to avoid degradation from heat, sun and light.
Essential Oil Don’ts
Don’t apply an essential oil to children without first seeking the advice of a health care professional.
Don’t apply an essential oil to the eyes, nose, ears, or mucous membrane. If sensitivity occurs, rinse with pure vegetable oil.
Don’t dilute essential oils with water, as it is not effective.
Don’t use essential oils on skin that has been injured, damaged or affected by chemical burns.
Don’t use essential oils around open flames, candles, stove tops, etc., as they are flammable.
Don’t use essential oils if you are a heart patient, or suffer from asthma, epilepsy, hypertension, or other chronic health conditions without first seeking the advice of your physician or medical practitioner.
Don’t use essential oils of Tansy, Clary Sage, Sage, Fennel, Wintergreen, Penny Wort or Hyssop if pregnant or you suspect you may be pregnant.
Don’t self-diagnose or prescribe any natural substances for conditions that require professional attention, severe side effects can occur.
Essential oils eat up plastic so do not store them in plastic containers. You may store essential oil blends (that are diluted with carrier oils or other ingredients) in plastic containers. But for the pure undiluted oils, keep them in glass and amber/cobalt blue containers.
Young Living Premium Starter Kits
with Diffuser
The Young Living Premium Starter Kits with Diffuser come with our member’s favorite and most widely-used oils, ready to help you create a healthier and happier home. If you’re not already using Young Livingessential oils and are unsure where to start, here are some of our favorites:
Lavender oil
Diffuse at bedtime for a better sleep routine or add to moisturizers or your bath for a relaxing twist on body care. Lavender oil is the most used and recognized essential oil in the world today.
Peppermint essential oil
Add to homemade cleaners for a fresh, natural scent, or dilute with a carrier oil and coconut oil and rub on tired muscles for a soothing, invigorating feeling.
Lemon essential oil
This common scent is bright and refreshing, so it’s perfect for cleaning solutions. It’s also great for removing stubborn adhesives and labels.
Frankincense essential oil
You may have heard of this ancient remedy, but did you know it can be used to promote tranquility and relaxation? It’s also great as part of a skincare routine to even tones and add a youthful appearance.
Tea Tree Essential oil
Tea tree essential oil, also known as melaleuca, is widely recognized for its powerful antiseptic properties and ability to treat wounds, which is why it’s the top antibacterial essential oil.
If you have more questions, check out our FAQ page, or reach out to us. We’re here to help. We want you to enjoy essential oils safety as much as we do!
Essential Oil Safety
Essential oils are infused with vast health benefits. Centuries of use have confirmed their tremendous effect on the body. When essential oils are used correctly, vast health benefits are realized.
However, it is important to always understand that essential oils are highly concentrated plant extracts. That means a little essential oil goes a long way in providing these vital benefits. And more is not better. So, when essential oils are used incorrectly, certain health risks can occur.
Side effects of improper essential oil use can manifest in a few ways. These health risks can include allergic reactions, burns, sun sensitivity and skin irritation.
Quality essential oils come with safety information on its label. Understanding the safety guidelines are the first step in safe and beneficial use of essential oils. The following is intended to help you understand safetyduring application and use of essential oils to avoid adverse reactions.
Ways to Enjoy Essential Oils
There are mainly four ways to apply essential oils:
Topical or Skin Application
Internal
Inhalation
Diffusing
Topical or Skin Application
One of the most popular ways of using essential oils is to apply directly on to the skin, known as skin or topical application. There are some essential oils that can cause skin irritation if applied undiluted (neat). Some individuals may also be more sensitive to concentrated pure essential oils.
The best way to determine if you are sensitive to a specific essential oil is to do a patch test. Always follow label directions when using essential oils topically. To do a patch test follow these directions:
- Wash skin on inside of arm with unscented soap.
- Dry area.
- Apply 1 to 2 drops (or recommended dosage) to cleansed skin.
- Leave on for 1 to 2 hours.
If irritation occurs in the form of a rash or sensitivity, gently dilute with a carrier oil or fatty milk as often as needed to relieve discomfort (never use water as essential oils are not water soluble).
Most aromatherapists recommend that you should dilute essential oils with a carrier oil when applying to skin. To do so, add two to three drops of pure vegetable oil (ex: coconut, olive, grapeseed, jojoba) with the same amount of essential oil. Carrier oils will minimize the risk of skin sensitivity to the essential oil. The use of carrier oils will not dilute the effectiveness of the essential oil.
Apply the diluted oils to the skin at the affected area. The best areas to apply essential oils include:
Abdomen
Cleavage
Forehead
Neck
Soles of Feet
Temples
Vita Flex of Hand
Vita Flex of Feet
Wrists
Note: Other oils, such as butter, margarine, mineral oil, petroleum jelly and shortening, should never be used as a carrier oil. Avoid essential oils in the eyes, nose mucous membrane, and ear canals. Always follow the dilution rations on the essential oil label.
Internal
Some essential oils have been approved by the Food and Drug Administration (FDA) for ingestion. These essential oils have been given the classification “GRAS” (generally recognized as safe). When ingesting essential oils use the following precautions:
Read label instructions carefully
Make sure the essential oil is organic and certified as GRAS by the FDA
Limit the amount of essential oils to 1 to 2 drops, and up to 2 to 3 times per day
If sensitivity or allergic reaction occurs, discontinue use
Consult with a medical practitioner first if you take prescription medication
Consult with a medical practitioner first if you have a medical condition
Consult with a medical practitioner first if you are pregnant, may be pregnant or nursing
Keep essential oils out of reach of children and pets
Note:Young Living™ has created a line called Vitality™ essential oils. The Vitality line is intended for internal use and approved by the FDA as GRAS. These oils contain clear dietary instructions on each individual label for safety and use.
Inhalation
Inhalation of essential oils is considered by most to be the safest way to receive their wonderful benefits. Inhale for several seconds to a couple minutes. The vapors can quickly enter your bloodstream to begin administering their healthful benefits.
There are many ways to inhale essential oils:
Inhale the essential oil directly from the bottle
Place one to two drops of essential oils in palms of hands, rub together, an inhale
Add ten drops of essential oils to boiling water, cover head with a towel and inhale the vapors for up to five minutes.
Apply essential oils to scarves and inhale the fragrance throughout the day
Aromatic/Diffuser
Diffusers and atomizers are a popular and generally safe way to use essential oils with minimal risk. However, it is still important to use them with caution. Whendiffusing, consider the following:
Diffuse in a well-ventilated area
Follow duration recommendations (start at 30 to 45 minutes)
Follow dilution recommendations
Follow manufacturer directions for use
Keep away from flames as essential oils are flammable
Keep diffuser clean by with mild soap and water (bacteria and mold build-up)
Discontinue use if respiratory sensitivity or irritation occurs
Give pets access to ingress/egress the area
Essential Oils During Pregnancy
Pregnant women can be hypersensitive to some essential oils. Some essential oils should be avoided completely during pregnancy due to their effect on the uterus. This possibility does pose increased risk to contractions and possible aborting of the fetus and affect blood pressure. Always read product labels on essential oils before using if you are pregnant or think you might be pregnant.
Safe essential oils during pregnancy determined by medical practitioners include:
Bergamot
Frankincense
Geranium
Ginger
Grapefruit
Juniper
Lavender
Lemon
Orange
Sandalwood
Ylangylang
Essential Oils for Babies, Toddlers & Children
There are many essential oils that are beneficial for use on children. However, Infants, toddlers, and young children can be hypersensitive to some essential oils. This can be due to their inability to process the highly concentrated constituents formed during the distillation process.
Prior to use on children, dilute essential oils. A great way to apply essential oils to children is on the bottom of their feet.
Always read product labels on essential oils beforegiving or applying to babies, toddlers, or young children. Women who are breast-feeding should avoid oils that are sensitive to children, as well.
Note: Young Living™ has created some gentle blends especially for children that can be directly applied neat.
Safety First
Always remember that essential oils are highly concentrated plant extracts. Quality essential oils will come with a label and directions for use. Safety during use should always be a top priority when using them. Considerations to keep in mind follow:
Dilution Recommendations – always follow label directions for dilution
Dosage Recommendations – always follow label directions for dosage amounts
Duration Recommendations – when diffusing, follow recommended period of use
Sensitivity Recommendations – be aware of photosensitivity and skin patch tests
Medical Issues – if you have a medical condition, it is recommended that you consult with your health care provider before using essential oils
Medication Interactions – if you are using medication, it is recommended that you consult with your health care provider before using essential oils
Disclaimer: Miessential oil personnel are not trained medical physicians or certified practitioners. The information contained on this page is for information and education purposes only. The information contained and products discussed should not be used to diagnose, treat or prevent any medical condition. Statements made have not been evaluated by the Food and Drug Administration. Before using any essential oil, consult with your medical provider. If you are pregnant, may be pregnant, nursing, have a health issue, or on medication, consult with your medical provider before using any essential oil, alternative medicine, natural supplement, or vitamin.