What makes essential oils ‘essential’?

For those who haven’t used them, essential oils might seem strange, new or both. The word “oil” has plenty of meanings, depending on the context. It might be used in cooking, as with vegetable oil, or in driving, as with motor oil.

Yet essential oils are much more than that, and as a Young Living distributor, I want to help educate everyone about what they are and how they can be used. There’s no better place to start than this simple question: What makes essential oils “essential”?

The answer begins in the field. In part, Young Living labels the oils “essential” because they come a variety of seeds and plants around the world—in other words, they are an essential component of things found in nature. The seeds and plants from which Young Living essential oils are derived come from farms that are overseen by experts who ensure the highest standards are achieved.

Yet their presence in nature isn’t the only thing that makes essential oils “essential.” Essential oils also have been used for thousands of years to encourage well-being among people. They can be used in conjunction with aromatherapy, as part of a fitness regimen, to support pet wellness and much more. Each generation has found new ways to celebrate the lifestyle that comes with essential oils, making them an essential part of daily life.

Finally, essential oils are “essential” because of the way in which they are gathered for use by your family. Young Living is recognized as an innovator in essential oil distillation, from a gentle and proprietary technique for steam extracting. We also use cold pressing and resin tapping for select oils. Further, products are tested to verify they meet stringent specifications and sealed in protective amber glass bottles. High quality is at the heart of what we do and is thus essential to Young Living.

These key principles may be helpful in your conversations about essential oils. Understanding how essential oils support wellness begins with people such as you. Thank you!