Be sure you are getting the best quality oil when you buy essential oils.

There is a wide range of essential oil quality on the market today. Over 90% of the production of essential oils are for the food and perfume industry. These industries require a consistent product each time they purchase, so the oil producer may dilute, extend or manipulate the chemistry of the essential oil to have the same batch characteristics every time. However, the dilution of oils isn't specific to the cosmetic and perfume industry, it also happens with pure essential oils such as Rose Otto, Frankincense, or the Chamomiles.

Comparing and purchasing oils from a variety of suppliers can be an overwhelming experience. It's very difficult to do an apple to apple comparison. Not every supplier carries the same products. There are many varieties of Lavender, Eucalyptus or Basil.

Here are some tips to help you get the best product when you buy essential oils:

• Look for full labeling. The common name and Latin botanical name should appear on the label. Ie. both Lavandula angustifolia and Lavender.
• Go for essential oils that carry a batch code, shelf life, and the name and address of the supplier. The more information on the label, the better.
• Remember that price DOES reflect quality in the essential oil market. Some essential oils are more expensive to produce than others - for example, sandalwood oil is over twice the price of lavender oil. Be wary if there is little or no price difference between different oils. Although an inferior oil can sell for a high price, a good oil is not going to sell at a low price.
• Don't be fooled by the terms used to describe the essential oil. Words like genuine, natural, and pure will vary depending on the supplier, distiller, and the country. These are marketing terms and do not always mean an oil is not artificial or not synthetic.
• Essential oils keep best in dark bottles, away from sunlight and heat. Avoid bottles of oil that have been stored in store windows.
• Make sure the bottle cap fits tightly - essential oils evaporate.
• All bottles of essential oil should have a built-in dropper. This makes it easier to measure the number of drops you need. Don't buy wide-neck bottles.

Be sure to check out several stores that carry essential oils, reading labels, identifying brands, etc. before you purchase. Do the same even when you purchase essential oils online. Read the label information and be sure you've got information on the essential oil's quality, before buying the essential oil. With a little due diligence, you will add essential oils to your collection that you will feel comfortable using for any of your aromatherapy products and health routines.

For additional information, visit the Aromatherapy Supplies page.

 

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