Do you ever wonder why there’s such a stark difference in price for the supposedly same type of essential oil? You may be thinking perhaps it’s just the difference in terms of brand. Although that can and is a variable, there are actually other factors that affect the cost more than just the brand.
It is a common mistake to assume essential oils and fragrant oils are the same thing. Moreover, essential oils aren’t strictly regulated as other goods, therefore anyone can slap on a label that promises high quality, 100% pure, organic essential oils even when they are far from that.
Fragrance/aroma oils are not pure essential oils, even if the label says otherwise. They typically contain a fraction of pure essential oil and adulterated with synthetics and fillers, cutting costs and corners. The ingredient list and the packaging are the easiest way to differentiate pure and impure oils.
Pure, single essential oils should only have their scientific name listed in the ingredient list, not a bunch of ingredients. It is also exclusively stored in dark colored glass bottles to prevent corrosion (pure essential oils are corrosive to plastic) and oxidation. These are the easiest tell-tale signs.
Not all pure unadulterated essential oils are made equal. The prices will differ immensely depending on the level of difficulty to source the plant, grow the plant and the production process. This is why some oils such as lemon, peppermint, tea tree are much more affordable compared to oils like rose, sandalwood and melissa.
Another factor that can alter the price of the essential oils is organic certification. To get the certification, the soil of the plant that’s grown must be free from pesticides, fungicides, herbicides along with other synthetic fertilizers that are free of genetically modified organisms (GMO).
Going back to the talk of the labels, even with pure unadulterated essential oils, some companies may market and claim that their oils are completely organic even with the absence of the official certification. Another meaning to certified organic oils is that they’re generally meant to be healthier and less toxic.
However, it is important to note not to dismiss the toxicity and harm of essential oils if misused whether it’s by ingestion, applying topically without dilution or using too much even with dilution. They may be natural and organic but that doesn’t mean they can be used mindlessly.
As mentioned in the introduction, the brand itself can be a variable that affects the pricing. The essential oils from MLM (multi level marketing) brands such as doTerra and Young Living will tend to cost more than non MLM brands such as Rocky Mountain Oils and Plant Therapy. Hopefully this clears up some confusion and allow for better understanding of essential oils and the world of aromatherapy. Even though essential oils are highly prized for their therapeutic benefits, there is no harm in buying fragrant or aroma oils, just know that you’re not getting the same benefits.