As an end consumer, judging takes a lot of work, and essential oils can be challenging. Many companies that act as distributors will have large catalogs of EOs sourced from all over the world, and they generally need to grow or distill their oil.
However, this does not mean that the EOs are unadulterated!
Look for Certifications
Whether you’re a newbie to essential oils or are a seasoned pro, it’s important to know how to distinguish the good from the bad. Especially in this industry where so many different companies touting their versions of “pure” and “authentic,” it can be difficult to discern which one is right for you.
Often, the most telling factor to find pure essential oils is how it was produced. Four primary methods exist to extract essential oils from plants: distillation, cold pressing, resin cutting, and steam distillation. Each has distinct qualities that can be used to assess the oil’s quality and purity.
For example, steam-distilled oil is typically the best because it produces the least toxic byproducts. However, the process also leaves behind a large portion of water, which can affect how the oil smells and is used.
It’s also essential to look for a transparent company about their products. In addition to providing web pages and booklets, they should list the botanical or Latin name of the plant that produced the oil and be transparent about any synthetics or additions they use. Additionally, it’s worth noting that reputable oil companies can provide documentation and testing reports for their essential oils.
Finally, look for an independent certification. This certification provides credibility that elevates you above the millions of essential oil consultants and demonstrates professionalism.
Look for Labels
Whether you’re an aromatherapist or someone who uses essential oils in their home, it’s vital to ensure you buy pure, unadulterated oils. Unfortunately, many unscrupulous companies are selling diluted and fake oils as the real thing. These oils may cost less than the genuine article but will not provide the same health benefits. The good news is that you can protect yourself from these bogus oils in several ways.
Aside from looking for certifications, looking at the label is crucial. Quality oil will include a batch number, country of origin, ingredients list, and other information. Additionally, it will be apparent that the product is 100% pure and should not contain any other additives or synthetic fragrances. It is also a good idea to look for a well-established brand that has existed for some time.
Additionally, high-quality essential oils will usually be darker than synthetic oils. That is because dark-colored bottles can keep the oils from degrading over time due to sunlight exposure. Additionally, it’s a good idea to choose glass bottles instead of plastic ones, which can dissolve over time and taint the contents.
Finally, a high-quality essential oil will typically have the characteristic scent of the plant from which it came. Additionally, it is a good idea to test the oil by rubbing a drop between your fingers. If it feels thick and greasy, this is likely because it has been mixed with carrier oil or other additives. A quality essential oil should smell clean and fresh.
Bottle labels are critical to any product’s marketing strategy but essential for essential oils. These labels must communicate important safety and usage instructions and all necessary legal information. They should also feature a straightforward, eye-catching design to help set the product apart from competitors.
While some companies stick with a standard label design, others opt for customized versions that reflect the business’s unique personality. Some essential oil producers even go so far as to add a logo and signature style to their packaging, creating a distinct identity that instantly sets their products apart from the competition.
Look for Packaging
The first step of essential oil marketing is creating high-quality products that set your brand apart. It builds originality and authenticity and gives your clients the peace of mind that they are getting pure, therapeutic-grade products.
Packaging is also a vital component of a successful business. Choosing unique, durable bottles and labels with a distinctive design style will help to set your product apart from the competition. In addition, using a consistent color scheme and marketing concepts can help to create a memorable, easily recognizable brand. Consider the amount of work that goes into making national brands instantly recognizable to consumers through silly jingles and attention-grabbing advertising, compared to the effort often put into developing a small-scale independent oil company’s branding.
Labeling information is another vital thing to look for in essential oil packaging. A good label will include the required information, such as a description of the oil, its source, and its chemical properties. It will also provide instructions on proper storage and cautions, such as the risk of sensitivity or sensitization and storing the oil away from heat sources. It will also specify whether the oil is for external use only or if it can be ingested.
Lastly, look for a clearly stated guarantee of quality and purity. If a company is willing to stand behind the quality of its products, it usually indicates a well-established business with a long track record of trust.
Once you have found a quality supplier, it is time to start promoting your products. Consider utilizing demographic-targeting features on social media to reach potential customers. In addition, reaching out to local retailers willing to sell your products in their stores or participate in a farmers market may be helpful.
Finally, be aware that in some cases, dishonest suppliers or oil producers will attempt to pass off low-quality oils as higher-quality varieties. It is known as adulteration. A typical example is to mix cheaper oils such as Citronella oil, Lemongrass oil, or Litsea Cubeba oil with Melissa oil and then sell the mixture as “Melissa” essential oil.
Look for Testimonials
The essential oil market can be tricky to navigate, as it’s filled with many different companies, each with their own ways of claiming that their oils are pure and authentic. It’s crucial to read reviews of the products left by previous customers before choosing which oils to buy. In addition, it’s also essential to pay attention to the packaging the oil is sold in. For example, if the oil is packaged in plastic, this can be a sign that it’s not pure. Instead, opt for oil stored in glass, as this can help protect the integrity of the product.
Another good way to ensure that you’re purchasing pure and authentic essential oils is to ask for a GC/MS report specific to the batch of the oil. This instrumental analysis is the gold standard for testing essential oils and can help confirm purity. If the company you’re purchasing from doesn’t have this information available or tries to make you buy the oil before you can see the test results, this is a red flag.
In addition, it’s a good idea to check for a list of safety precautions and usage instructions that are provided with each product. It can help you avoid unnecessary harm when using the oils, and it’s also a great way to learn more about how each oil can be used and the best methods for dilution and application. Many reputable essential oil companies will provide this information on their website and online catalogs, making it easy to decide when shopping.
When it comes to essential oils, it’s important to do your homework and take the time to find a high-quality, trustworthy supplier that you can depend on. It’s important to understand that genuine, pure essential oils have much to offer the user’s health and well-being when used correctly. They can be very effective. By following the tips above, you can be sure you’re obtaining the most potent and therapeutic essential oils available today.
