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Essential oils have many health benefits, but anxiety management is where they really shine.
<p>Like a bullet straight to the heart of your biochemistry, their phytochemicals can swiftly enter the bloodstream and relieve anxiety fast.</p><p>Here are the four best essential oils for anxiety:</p><ul class="ee-ul"><li>Lavender</li><li>Bergamot</li><li>Rose</li><li>Chamomile</li></ul><p>What makes these essential oils so effective at calming the nervous system?</p><p>Keep reading to find out.</p>
What Are Essential Oils?
<p>Essential oils are extracted from the roots, stems, flowers, leaves, and bark of certain plants.</p><p>Their therapeutic compounds can promote relaxation, improve mood, reduce anxiety, and ameliorate depression.</p>How Essential Oils May Help Anxiety
<p>Most compounds have to be digested or injected in order to enter the bloodstream.</p><p>However, the phytochemicals in essential oils, like linalool and linalyl acetate, are small enough to pass through the skin and nasal cavities.</p><p>From there, they can readily travel across the blood-brain barrier to potentially relieve anxiety.</p><p>People with anxiety often have concurrent digestive issues that inhibit nutrient absorption, making essential oils an especially valuable treatment.</p>How to Use Essential Oils for Anxiety
<p>Essential oils can be ingested, applied topically, or inhaled.</p><p>Aromatherapy massage, however, can provide particularly fast-acting relief.</p><p>A <a href="https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pubmed/18753801" target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer">2008 study</a> found that aromatherapy hand massages with a blend of bergamot, lavender, and frankincense can effectively reduce anxiety, pain, and depression in hospice patients better than regular massage alone. The essential oil blend contained a 1.5 percent dilution of essential oils, using sweet almond oil as a carrier oil. </p><p>Carrier oils like almond, coconut, and <a href="https://www.remedyreview.com/health/how-is-hemp-oil-made/" target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer">hemp seed oil</a> can spread the essential oil across a wider surface area and extend its aromatic effects.</p><p>However, oral lavender oil can be effective as well.</p><p>A 2009 study published in the journal <a href="https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pubmed/19382124" target="_blank"><em>Human Psychopharmacology</em></a> found that oral lavender oil capsules can reduce anxiety in participants watching stressful film clips.</p>4 Best Essential Oils for Anxiety
<p>Essential oils can reduce stress hormone production and boost calming neurotransmitters.</p><p>Here's a closer look at the four best essential oils for anxiety:</p><p><strong>1. Lavender</strong></p><p>Lavender is the queen of anti-anxiety oils, and there's a mountain of evidence to prove it.</p><p>Over the years, lavender essential oil has been studied as a treatment for wounds, burns, and seizures, but recent research suggests that it may also have potent anti-anxiety, mood stabilizing, and sedative effects.</p><p>It can also be consumed as a lavender tea.</p><p>Here's what the research as to say about lavender essential oil for anxiety:</p><ul><li>According to a <a href="https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC3612440/" target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer">2013 meta-analysis</a>, lavender may promote the inhibitory neurotransmitter GABA and reduce glutamate, which tends to be overactive in anxious individuals. </li><li>A 2012 study published in the journal <a href="https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pubmed/22402245/" target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer"><em>Phytomedicine</em></a> found that lavender may reduce anxiety by acting on acetylcholine: the primary neurotransmitter involved with higher thinking. </li><li>Inhaled <a href="https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pubmed/12112282/" target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer">lavender may target the limbic system</a> by targeting the hippocampus and amygdala: the emotional center of the brain.</li><li><a href="https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pubmed/17291597" target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer">Animal studies</a> show that inhaled lavender can reduce cortisol: the main hormone linked to chronic stress and anxiety. </li><li>In a <a href="https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pubmed/24456909" target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer">2014 human study</a>, researchers determined that oral lavender oil can outperform the prescription anxiolytic paroxetine in the treatment of generalized anxiety disorder (GAD).</li></ul><p>Although the FDA <em>does not</em> officially recognize lavender oil as a treatment for anxiety disorders, the <a href="https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC5437114/" target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer">European Medicines Agency</a> (EMA) does.</p><p><a href="https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pubmed/26247152" target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer">Recent research</a> shows that lavender oil may also reduce inflammation, lower blood pressure, and slow heart rate.</p><p><strong>2. Bergamot</strong></p><p>Bergamot is another widely-researched essential oil that may reduce anxiety, pain, stress, and inflammation.</p><p>According to a 2011 rodent study published in the journal <a href="https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pubmed/21105176" target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer"><em>Phytotherapy Research</em></a>, "Both BEO [bergamot essential oil] and diazepam [prescription medication] exhibited anxiolytic-like behaviors and attenuated HPA axis activity by reducing the corticosterone response to stress.</p><p>In other words, bergamot treated stress and anxiety by calming the stress response.</p><p>Human studies are also promising.</p><p>A <a href="https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC5434918/" target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer">2017 pilot study</a> found that bergamot oil aromatherapy can enhance positive feelings in the waiting room of a mental health treatment center.</p><p><strong>3. Rose</strong></p><p>Studies show that rose essential oil may balance hormones, reduce stress, and treat anxiety.</p><p>Here's what the research has to say about the health benefits of rose essential oil:</p><ul><li>In a <a href="https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pubmed/17693981" target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer">2007 Japanese study</a>, rose oil aromatherapy effectively reduced cortisol levels in both female and male volunteers. Plus, it decreased testosterone in women but had no effect on testosterone in men.</li><li>According to a <a href="https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC5111093/" target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer">2016 clinical trial</a>, patients undergoing hemodialysis treatment may experience reduced anxiety with rose oil aromatherapy. </li><li>On a similar note, a <a href="https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC5511972/#B23" target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer">2014 study</a> indicates that inhaling rose oil may increase feelings of comfort by inhibiting neurotransmitter activity in the prefrontal cortex. </li><li>According to another <a href="https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC4270653/" target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer">2014 study</a>, rose oil foot baths can be significantly more effective at reducing anxiety than regular foot baths.</li></ul><p>Rose essential oil also contains eugenol: one of the strongest antioxidants in the world.</p><p><strong>4. Chamomile</strong></p><p>Chamomile tea is widely used as a natural sleep aid, and that's because the plant contains several therapeutic phytochemicals, including the soothing compound chamazulene.</p><p>These properties also make chamomile well-suited for reducing stress and anxiety.</p><p>Both chamomile aromatherapy and oral chamomile appear to be equally effective.</p><p>In one <a href="https://nccih.nih.gov/research/results/spotlight/040310.htm" target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer">2009 randomized, double-blind, placebo-controlled study</a>, researchers at Pennsylvania State University tested the effects of oral chamomile capsules on 57 patients with mild generalized anxiety disorder (GAD).</p><p>Compared to the placebo, participants experienced a statistically significant reduction in anxiety symptoms.</p><p>According to the study's authors, "These results suggest that chamomile may have modest benefits for some people with mild to moderate GAD."</p><p>At the same time, a <a href="https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC6428160/" target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer">2013 aromatherapy study</a> found a significant difference in the anxiety scores between the chamomile group and the control group.</p><p>To top it all off, chamomile contains several terpenes and flavonoids that may treat gastrointestinal inflammation and reduce pain.</p>What to Know Before Using Essential Oils for Anxiety
<p><a href="https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC6428160/" target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer">Other anti-anxiety oils</a> to check out include, sage, frankincense, geranium, and orange oil.</p><p>It's also a good notion to never ingest essential oils without first making sure they're food-grade. Many oils are manufactured with synthetic perfumes that can upset and irritate the stomach.</p><p>If you have a history of serious medical conditions or are currently taking prescription drugs, make sure to consult a specialist before adding essential oils to your regular health practice.</p><p>All in all, many people have found aromatherapy and other essential oil applications to be very beneficial in the reduction of anxiety — and you might too.</p><p><em>Justin Fowler-Lindner, a former EMT turned freelance writer, spends his days popping supplements and soaking up the sun in tropical destinations around the world.</em></p>From Your Site Articles
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You may be familiar with myrrh from Biblical stories even if you're not sure what it is.
<p>Myrrh is a reddish-brown dried sap from a thorny tree—<em>Commiphora myrrha, </em>also known as<em> C. molmol</em>—that is native to northeastern Africa and southwest Asia (<a href="https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pubmed/28626756" target="_blank">1</a>, <a href="http://biomed.papers.upol.cz/pdfs/bio/2005/01/01.pdf" target="_blank">2</a>).</p><p>A steam distillation process is used to extract myrrh essential oil, which is amber to brown in color and has an earthy scent (<a href="http://www.jocpr.com/articles/commiphora-myrrha-and-commiphora-africana-essential-oils.pdf" target="_blank">3</a>).</p><p>Myrrh has long been used in traditional Chinese medicine and Ayurvedic medicine. Scientists are now testing the oil's potential uses, including for pain, infections and skin sores (<a href="https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pubmed/12685809" target="_blank">4</a>).</p><p>Here are 11 science-based health benefits and uses of myrrh essential oil.</p>
<p class=""> <em>Reposted with permission from our media associate <a href="https://www.healthline.com/nutrition/myrrh-oil#section2" target="_blank">Healthline</a>.</em><em></em></p>
1. Kills Harmful Bacteria
<p>Ancient Egyptians used myrrh and other essential oils to embalm mummies, as the oils not only provide a nice scent but also slow decay. Scientists now know this is because the oils kill bacteria and other microbes (<a target="_blank" href="https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pubmed/11677605">5</a>).</p><p>Additionally, in Biblical times, myrrh incense—often in combination with <a href="https://www.healthline.com/nutrition/frankincense" target="_blank">frankincense</a>—was burned in places of worship to help purify the air and prevent the spread of contagious diseases, including those caused by bacteria.</p><p>One recent study found that burning myrrh and frankincense incense reduced airborne bacterial counts by 68% (<a target="_blank" href="https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pubmed/29530608">6</a>).</p><p>Preliminary animal research suggests that myrrh can directly kill bacteria, as well as stimulate the immune system to make more white blood cells, which also kill bacteria (<a target="_blank" href="https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pubmed/23961070">7</a>).</p><p>In test-tube studies, myrrh oil has strong effects against several infectious bacteria, including some drug-resistant ones (<a target="_blank" href="http://www.jocpr.com/articles/commiphora-myrrha-and-commiphora-africana-essential-oils.pdf">3</a>, <a target="_blank" href="https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pubmed/10865454">8</a>, <a target="_blank" href="https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pubmed/20922991">9</a>, <a target="_blank" href="https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pubmed/25027570">10</a>).</p><p>In one test-tube study, myrrh oil at a low dilution of 0.1% killed all dormant Lyme disease bacteria, which can persist in some people after antibiotic treatment and continue to cause illness (<a target="_blank" href="https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pubmed/30332754">11</a>).</p><p>Still, more studies are needed to determine whether myrrh oil can treat persistent Lyme infections.</p><p><strong>Summary</strong></p><p><strong></strong>Myrrh oil has been used to kill harmful bacteria long before scientists discovered that microbes cause contagious illnesses. It may have an impact on some drug-resistant and Lyme disease bacteria.</p>2. May Support Oral Health
<p>Due to its antimicrobial properties, myrrh has traditionally been used to treat oral infections and <a href="https://www.healthline.com/nutrition/13-anti-inflammatory-foods" target="_blank">inflammation</a> (<a target="_blank" href="https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pubmed/12781209">12</a>).</p><p>Some natural mouthwashes and toothpaste contain myrrh oil, which is approved as a flavoring by the FDA (<a target="_blank" href="https://www.fda.gov/Food/IngredientsPackagingLabeling/FoodAdditivesIngredients/ucm091048.htm">13</a>, <a target="_blank" href="http://www.revistadechimie.ro/pdf/23%20LISA%209%2017.pdf">14</a>).</p><p>What's more, when people with Behcet's disease—an inflammatory disorder—used a myrrh mouthwash to treat painful mouth sores four times daily for a week, 50% of them had complete pain relief and 19% had complete healing of their mouth sores (<a target="_blank" href="http://www.usa-journals.com/wp-content/uploads/2016/12/Albishri_Vol51.pdf">15</a>).</p><p>Test-tube studies suggest that mouthwash containing myrrh oil may also help gingivitis, which is inflammation of the gums around your teeth due to a buildup of plaque (<a target="_blank" href="https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pubmed/12781209">12</a>).</p><p>Yet, more studies are needed to confirm these benefits.</p><p>Keep in mind that you should never swallow myrrh oral-care products, as high doses of myrrh can be toxic (<a target="_blank" href="http://www.usa-journals.com/wp-content/uploads/2016/12/Albishri_Vol51.pdf">15</a>).</p><p>Additionally, if you have oral surgery, it may be best to avoid myrrh mouthwash during healing. A test-tube study found that stitches—especially silk ones—can degrade when exposed to myrrh, though they held up in the doses typically found in mouthwash (<a target="_blank" href="https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pubmed/25736257">16</a>).</p><p><strong>Summary</strong></p><p><strong></strong>Some natural mouthwashes and toothpastes contain myrrh oil, which may help relieve mouth sores and gum inflammation. Never swallow these products.</p>3. Supports Skin Health and May Help Heal Sores
<p>Traditional uses of myrrh include treating skin wounds and infections. Today, scientists are testing these applications (<a target="_blank" href="https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pubmed/26427766">17</a>).</p><p>One test-tube study of human skin cells found that an essential oil blend containing myrrh helped heal wounds (<a target="_blank" href="https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pubmed/29450150">18</a>).</p><p>Another study noted that myrrh and other essential oils applied via baths helped mothers heal skin wounds from vaginal deliveries (<a target="_blank" href="https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pubmed/15314339">19</a>).</p><p>However, multiple oils were used simultaneously in these studies, so the individual effects of myrrh for wound healing are unclear.</p><p>Specific studies on myrrh oil are more telling.</p><p>A test-tube study on 247 different essential oil combinations found that myrrh oil mixed with sandalwood oil was especially effective at killing microbes that infect skin wounds (<a target="_blank" href="https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pubmed/30362637">20</a>).</p><p>Additionally, in one test-tube study, myrrh oil alone inhibited 43–61% of the growth of five fungi that cause skin conditions, including ringworm and athlete's foot (<a target="_blank" href="https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pubmed/26427766">17</a>).</p><p>Human research is needed to confirm these benefits. However, if you want to try myrrh for general <a href="https://www.healthline.com/nutrition/12-foods-for-healthy-skin" target="_blank">skin health</a>, many natural ointments and soaps contain it. You can also apply diluted myrrh oil directly on your skin.</p><p><strong>Summary</strong></p><p><strong></strong>Applying diluted myrrh oil on your skin may aid wound healing and fight microbes that can cause infections. The oil may also deter the growth of skin fungi, including ringworm and athlete's foot.</p>4. Combats Pain and Swelling
<p>Pain—such as <a href="https://www.healthline.com/nutrition/headache-remedies" target="_blank">headaches</a>, joint pain and back pain—is a common complaint.</p><p>Myrrh oil contains compounds that interact with opioid receptors and tell your brain you're not in pain. Myrrh also blocks the production of inflammatory chemicals that can lead to swelling and pain (<a target="_blank" href="https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pubmed/28626756">1</a>, <a target="_blank" href="http://biomed.papers.upol.cz/pdfs/bio/2005/01/01.pdf">2</a>, <a target="_blank" href="https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pubmed/22020140">21</a>, <a target="_blank" href="https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pubmed/21167270">22</a>).</p><p>When people prone to headaches took a multi-ingredient supplement containing myrrh's pain-relieving compounds, their headache pain was reduced by about two-thirds during the six-month study (<a target="_blank" href="https://www.minervamedica.it/en/journals/gazzetta-medica-italiana/article.php?cod=R22Y2017N04A0149">23</a>).</p><p>Further research is needed to confirm these benefits. The supplement tested isn't available in the US, and ingesting myrrh oil is not recommended.</p><p>You can buy myrrh-containing homeopathic rubbing oils and other essential oils meant to relieve pain when applied directly to sore body parts. However, these haven't been studied.</p><p><strong>Summary</strong></p><p><strong></strong>Myrrh oil contains plant compounds that may temporarily relieve pain by signaling your brain that you're not in pain. It may also block your body's production of inflammatory chemicals that lead to swelling and pain.</p>5. May Be a Powerful Antioxidant
<p>Myrrh may be a powerful <a href="https://www.healthline.com/nutrition/foods-high-in-antioxidants" target="_blank">antioxidant</a>, a compound that combats oxidative damage.</p><p>Oxidative damage from free radicals contributes to aging and some diseases.</p><p>A test-tube study found that myrrh oil was more effective than <a href="https://www.healthline.com/nutrition/foods-high-in-vitamin-e" target="_blank">vitamin E</a>, a powerful antioxidant, at fighting free radicals (<a target="_blank" href="https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pubmed/15890469">24</a>, <a target="_blank" href="https://ods.od.nih.gov/factsheets/VitaminE-HealthProfessional/">25</a>).</p><p>Additionally, in an animal study, myrrh oil helped protect the liver against lead-induced oxidative damage in direct proportion to the amount of myrrh given prior to lead exposure (<a target="_blank" href="https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pubmed/19818824">26</a>).</p><p>It isn't known whether inhaling myrrh oil or applying it topically—which are two safe uses of myrrh oil for people—helps protect your body against oxidative damage.</p><p><strong>Summary</strong></p><p><strong></strong>Test-tube and animal studies show that myrrh oil is a powerful antioxidant and even more effective than vitamin E. However, human studies are needed.</p>6. Kills Some Parasites
<p>You can become infected with parasites from many sources, including pets, sexual activity and contaminated food or water (<a target="_blank" href="https://www.cdc.gov/parasites/transmission/index.html">27</a>).</p><p>Two common parasitic infections in the US are trichomoniasis, a sexually transmitted disease, and giardiasis, an intestinal infection (<a target="_blank" href="https://www.cdc.gov/parasites/npi/index.html">28</a>, <a target="_blank" href="https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pubmed/15023017">29</a>, <a target="_blank" href="https://www.cdc.gov/std/trichomonas/STDFact-Trichomoniasis.htm">30</a>).</p><p>In a preliminary study, women who failed to respond to standard drug treatment for trichomoniasis were given an oral drug, Mirazid, made of myrrh sap and its essential oil. About 85% of them were cured of the infection (<a target="_blank" href="https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pubmed/22737515">31</a>).</p><p>Additionally, an animal study found that the same myrrh drug effectively treated giardiasis (<a target="_blank" href="https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pubmed/21634251">32</a>).</p><p>Some human research suggests that this myrrh drug also may be effective against the parasite <em>Fasciola gigantica</em>, which can cause liver and bile duct diseases. However, other studies failed to see a benefit (<a target="_blank" href="http://www.scielo.br/pdf/ag/v47n4/v47n4a14.pdf">33</a>, <a target="_blank" href="https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pubmed/23730566">34</a>, <a target="_blank" href="https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pubmed/20503592">35</a>, <a target="_blank" href="http://www.emro.who.int/emhj-volume-16-2010/volume-16-issue-9/article-03.html">36</a>).</p><p>Mirazid is not widely prescribed at this time.</p><p>Though more research is needed, myrrh and its oil may prove helpful for treating parasites, especially in cases of drug resistance. Ingesting myrrh oil is not advised, and long-term safety must be assessed (<a target="_blank" href="https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pubmed/23569864">37</a>).</p><p><strong>Summary</strong></p><p><strong></strong>Preliminary studies suggest that a myrrh-containing medicine may help treat some common parasites, but more research on its effectiveness and safety is needed.</p>7–10. Other Potential Benefits
<p>Scientists are testing other potential uses for myrrh oil and its beneficial compounds. The following applications are under study:</p><p style="margin-left: 20px;"><span></span><strong>7. Sunscreen: </strong>One test-tube study found that SPF 15 sunscreen with added myrrh oil was significantly more effective at blocking ultraviolet rays than the sunscreen alone. By itself, myrrh oil wasn't as effective as the sunscreen (<a target="_blank" href="https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pubmed/30124732">38</a>).</p><p style="margin-left: 20px;"><span></span><strong>8. Cancer: </strong>Test-tube studies suggest that myrrh oil may help kill or slow the growth of <a href="https://www.healthline.com/nutrition/cancer-fighting-foods" target="_blank">cancer cells</a> from the liver, prostate, breast, and skin. However, this hasn't been tested in people (<a target="_blank" href="https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pubmed/29533080">39</a>, <a target="_blank" href="https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pubmed/21372825">40</a>, <a target="_blank" href="https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pubmed/24137478">41</a>).</p><p style="margin-left: 20px;"><span></span><strong>8. Gut health:</strong> One animal study indicates that myrrh compounds may help treat intestinal spasms related to irritable bowel syndrome. Another animal study suggests that myrrh may help treat <a href="https://www.healthline.com/nutrition/stomach-ulcer-remedies" target="_blank">stomach ulcers</a> (<a target="_blank" href="https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pubmed/25590370">42</a>, <a target="_blank" href="https://file.scirp.org/Html/5-1900346_71702.htm">43</a>).</p><p style="margin-left: 20px;"><span></span><strong>10. Mold: </strong>Test-tube studies note that myrrh oil may help kill mold, including <em>Aspergillus niger</em>, which commonly appears as mildew on damp walls, and <em>A. flavus</em>, which causes spoilage and mold contamination of food (<a target="_blank" href="http://www.jocpr.com/articles/commiphora-myrrha-and-commiphora-africana-essential-oils.pdf">3</a>, <a target="_blank" href="http://www.jnus.org/pdf/1/2007/1/256.pdf">44</a>).</p><p><strong>Summary</strong></p><p><strong></strong>Scientists are investigating other potential benefits of myrrh oil, including sunscreen effectiveness, cancer treatment, digestive health, and mold elimination.</p>11. Simple to Use
<p>Myrrh oil can be inhaled, applied topically, or used for oral care. It should not be swallowed.</p><p>Here are some general guidelines:</p><h3>Topical Use</h3><p>Due to the risk of skin irritation, it's best to dilute myrrh oil in a carrier oil, such as jojoba, almond, grapeseed, or <a href="https://www.healthline.com/nutrition/top-10-evidence-based-health-benefits-of-coconut-oil" target="_blank">coconut oil</a>. This also helps prevent the myrrh oil from evaporating too quickly (<a target="_blank" href="https://naturalmedicines.therapeuticresearch.com/">45</a>).</p><p>In general, use 3–6 drops of essential oil per 1 teaspoon (5 ml) of carrier oil for adults. This is considered a 2–4% dilution. For children, use 1 drop of essential oil per 1 teaspoon (5 ml) of carrier oil, which is a 1% dilution.</p><p>You can also add a drop or two of myrrh oil to unscented lotion or moisturizer before you apply it to your skin. Some people add myrrh oil to products used for massage.</p><p>Avoid applying the oil to sensitive areas, including your eyes and inner ears. Wash your hands with soapy water after handling essential oils to avoid accidental exposure to delicate areas.</p><h3>Inhaling</h3><p>You can add 3–4 drops of myrrh oil to a diffuser to distribute the oil as a fine mist into the surrounding air.</p><p>If you don't have a diffuser, you can simply place a few drops of the oil on a tissue or cloth and inhale periodically or add a few drops to hot water and inhale the steam.</p><p>One simple trick is to apply a few drops of myrrh oil to the cardboard tube inside a roll of toilet paper. When someone uses it, a bit of the aroma will be released.</p><h3>Combinations</h3><p>The earthy aroma of myrrh oil blends well with spicy, citrus, and floral <a href="https://www.healthline.com/nutrition/what-are-essential-oils" target="_blank">essential oils</a>, such as frankincense, lemon, and lavender, respectively.</p><p>The combination of myrrh and frankincense is especially popular — not only because of their complementary scents but also because of their synergy, or interaction that produces even greater benefits.</p><p>In test-tube studies, combined myrrh and frankincense oils improved their effectiveness against infectious bacteria and other microbes. About 11% of this improvement was due to synergistic interactions of the oils (<a target="_blank" href="https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pubmed/22288378">46</a>).</p><p><strong>Summary</strong></p><p>You can apply diluted myrrh oil to your skin, diffuse it, or use it orally. The oil can be used alone or in combination with complementary oils, such as frankincense and lemon.</p>Potential Risks
<p>Like other essential oils, myrrh oil is very concentrated, so you only need a few drops at a time. Avoid diffusing it close to babies and young children, as it's uncertain how much they'll inhale and how much is safe.</p><p>Additionally, no one should swallow myrrh oil, as it can be toxic (<a target="_blank" href="http://www.usa-journals.com/wp-content/uploads/2016/12/Albishri_Vol51.pdf">15</a>).</p><p>Some people should be especially cautious with myrrh oil and may need to avoid it entirely. Bear this in mind if any of the following conditions apply to you (<a target="_blank" href="https://naturalmedicines.therapeuticresearch.com/">45</a>, <a target="_blank" href="https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pubmed/23671711">47</a>):</p><ul> <li><strong>Pregnancy and breastfeeding:</strong> Avoid myrrh oil if you're <a href="https://www.healthline.com/nutrition/supplements-during-pregnancy" target="_blank">pregnant</a>, as it can cause uterine contractions and may trigger miscarriage. Also avoid myrrh oil if you're breastfeeding, as its safety to your baby isn't known.</li></ul><ul> <li><strong>Blood-thinning drugs:</strong> Don't use myrrh if you're taking blood thinners, such as warfarin, as myrrh could decrease their effectiveness.</li></ul><ul> <li><strong>Heart problems:</strong> Large amounts of myrrh may affect your heart rate, so use myrrh oil with caution if you have a heart condition.</li></ul><ul> <li><strong>Diabetes: </strong>If you're taking diabetes medication, keep in mind that myrrh may lower <a href="https://www.healthline.com/nutrition/15-ways-to-lower-blood-sugar" target="_blank">blood sugar</a>. Therefore, this combination could potentially result in blood sugar that's too low.</li></ul><ul><li><strong>Surgery:</strong> Myrrh may interfere with blood sugar control during and after surgery. Discontinue using myrrh products two weeks before surgery or as advised by your surgeon.</li></ul><p><strong>Summary</strong></p><p><strong></strong>If you're pregnant, have heart problems, are planning surgery, or take blood thinners or diabetes medications, you may want to limit or avoid myrrh oil.</p>The Bottom Line
<p>In addition to its pleasant, warm, and earthy scent, myrrh oil may also have several health benefits.</p><p>Studies suggest that it may help kill harmful bacteria, parasites, and other microbes. It may also support oral health, help heal skin sores, and ease pain and swelling.</p><p>However, the majority of these studies are in test tubes, animals, or small groups of people, so it's difficult to make any firm conclusions about its benefits.</p><p>If you want to try myrrh oil, dilute it in a carrier oil and apply it to your skin, or diffuse it to inhale the aroma. You can also buy products, such as mouthwash and ointments, that contain the oil.</p>From Your Site Articles
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Like many other plant-based foods and products, CBD oil is one dietary supplement where "organic" labels are very important to consumers. However, there are little to no regulations within the hemp industry when it comes to deeming a product as organic, which makes it increasingly difficult for shoppers to find the best CBD oil products available on the market.
<p>Here you can learn about the importance of organic hemp oil, why it's better for the environment, and which CBD companies actually make trustworthy products with sustainable farming processes. origins which weigh heavily on many consumers who want to buy a product that's produced in the best way possible for not only themselves to ingest, but for the environment as well through sustainable farming methods. </p><h2>What Is CBD Oil?</h2><p>First things first, CBD stands for cannabidiol, and it's a cannabinoid found within cannabis sativa plants. This plant compound is believed to have many potential benefits, and it is primarily derived from hemp plants via a CO2 extraction process. </p><p>Since CBD is extracted from industrial hemp, which contains only trace amounts of THC (the psychoactive component in cannabis plants), this means that CBD won't make you feel high like marijuana, which has much higher levels of THC that causes psychoactive effects. Instead, the effects of CBD are much more subtle and promote a general sense of calm and relaxation in most users.</p><h2>What Makes a CBD Oil Organic?</h2><p>In terms of organic labels, perhaps the most important (and prominent) certification comes from the United States Department of Agriculture (USDA). This government organization has been labeling foods as "organic" for many years, but what exactly does this certification entail? Essentially, a label indicating that a product is "USDA Organic" or "Certified Organic" means that at least 95% of the ingredients are obtained from organic sources.</p><p>For a crop to be considered organic by the USDA, it must be grown without the use of industrial solvents, irradiation, genetic engineering (GMOs), synthetic pesticides, or chemical fertilizer. Instead, farmers rely on natural substances and <a href="https://www.usda.gov/media/blog/2012/03/22/organic-101-what-usda-organic-label-means" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank">mechanical, physical, or biologically based farming</a> techniques to cultivate healthy and organic crops.</p><p>Before the passage of the 2018 Farm Bill, no hemp-derived products could be dubbed as "certified organic" since the hemp plant and its extracts were still categorized as a Schedule I Controlled Substance. However, it's still difficult for CBD companies to obtain a USDA certified organic label for their products due to the legal grey area that still surrounds CBD extracts. </p><p>Because of these challenges, and due to the fact that industrial hemp has only recently become an agricultural crop, very few CBD oils are USDA certified organic. Rather, many CBD products contain hemp extracts from plants that were grown in organic conditions but may not be federally certified.</p><h2>What are the Best Organic CBD Oil Brands?</h2><p><em>Each product featured here has been independently selected by the writer. If you make a purchase using the links included, we may earn commission.</em></p><em><br></em>
<h2>Why Organic Hemp Oil Matters</h2><p>Hemp is a unique plant, not only for its rich cannabinoid content, but also for its ability to absorb a wide variety of components in soil. But this trait poses great risks when it comes to the creation of CBD products derived from hemp.</p><p>Because hemp has a high capacity for compound uptake, this means that the plants can retain <a href="https://www.remedyreview.com/industry/lab-test-results/" target="_blank">harmful chemicals like pesticides</a>, heavy metals, and other residual solvents. This is especially true when it comes to synthetic chemicals that are more toxic to humans, and difficult to remove once they have been absorbed by the hemp plant.</p><p>Organic farming practices help reduce the risk of hemp crops absorbing harsh chemicals that may later end up in CBD oil after extraction. When you're taking CBD as a wellness supplement to help alleviate your symptoms or improve your overall well-being, the last thing you want is to ingest compounds that might negatively outweigh the benefits of CBD. This is an important reason to look for third party lab test results when shopping for CBD products since these certificates of analysis can show the full cannabinoid and terpene profile of a hemp extract, as well as test results that search for the presence of any residual solvents.</p><p>In addition to creating a better end product, organic farming practices are also better for the environment. Sustainable and organic farming methods may <a href="https://www.helpguide.org/articles/healthy-eating/organic-foods.htm" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank">reduce pollution, conserve water, reduce soil erosion, increase soil fertility, and use less energy</a>. The use of natural pest deterrents as opposed to chemical pesticides is also better for nearby animal populations and ecosystems.</p><h3>Organic vs. Natural</h3><p>While there are only a select few companies offering certified organic ingredients in their products, almost every brand in the CBD market creates "natural" products. The term "all-natural" or "plant-based" does not mean that a product is organic, and since hemp oil is a natural derivative of hemp plants, these products are often referred to as all-natural. However, there are some synthetic CBD oils that should be avoided because they are chemically constructed and may produce unwanted side effects that are not caused by naturally derived CBD extracts.</p><h2>What are the Benefits of Organic CBD Oil?</h2><p>There's a long list of potential CBD oil health benefits, and some of the most common wellness advantages include:</p><ul class="ee-ul"><li><a href="https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC2503660/" target="_blank">Chronic pain relief</a></li><li><a href="https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC4604171/" target="_blank">Anti-anxiety effects</a></li><li>Better sleep</li><li><a href="https://www.psychologytoday.com/us/blog/inner-source/201901/cbd-oil-mental-health-should-you-take-it-too" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank">Improvements in mood</a></li><li>Internal balance and regulation</li></ul><p>When dealing with pain, inflammation, sleep issues, and mental health struggles, it can be hard to find sufficient treatment options. The use of certain prescriptions can cause unwanted side effects, yet they are often the only solution for patients with these medical conditions. In search of other therapies, people have started to flock towards CBD oil as an alternative remedy for a variety of conditions. However, it should be noted that CBD products are not approved by the Food and Drug Administration (FDA), and you should seek your doctor's advice before using CBD if you have a serious medical condition.</p><h2>Look at the Labels Before You Buy CBD Oil</h2><p>When you go online to buy CBD oil, you'll quickly realize there is an overwhelming number of brands that are saturating the market. It can be difficult to determine which products are truly as good as they make themselves out to be. Always look for up-to-date third-party lab tests so you know you are getting a great product, and don't hesitate to contact the brand if you have any additional questions. And if you're intent on purchasing 100% organic CBD oil, it's best to look for certified products or brands that are held to strict regulatory standards.</p><p><strong>Melena Gurganus </strong>is the Reviews Editor at EcoWatch. She is passionate health and wellness and her writing aims to help others find products they can trust. Her work has been featured in publications such as Health, Shape, Huffington Post, Cannabis Business Times, and Bustle.<br></p>
Spruce
<img type="lazy-image" data-runner-src="https://assets.rebelmouse.io/eyJhbGciOiJIUzI1NiIsInR5cCI6IkpXVCJ9.eyJpbWFnZSI6Imh0dHBzOi8vYXNzZXRzLnJibC5tcy8yNDY4NjI3OC9vcmlnaW4uanBnIiwiZXhwaXJlc19hdCI6MTYyOTM2NzgzOX0.axY0HjeqRctJsR_KmDLctzDpUBLBN-oNIdqaXDb4caQ/img.jpg?width=980" id="774be" class="rm-shortcode" data-rm-shortcode-id="8379f35b1ca8a86d0e61b7d4bfc8b46e" data-rm-shortcode-name="rebelmouse-image" alt="spruce organic cbd oil" data-width="710" data-height="959" /><p>As one of the best brands in the business, Spruce CBD is well-known for its potent CBD oils that feature many additional beneficial phytocannabinoids. This brand works with two family-owned, sustainably focused farms in the USA (one located in Kentucky and one in North Carolina) to create its organic, small product batches. The max potency Spruce CBD oil contains 2400mg of full-spectrum CBD extract, but the brand also offers a lower strength tincture with 750mg of CBD in total.</p>
$89
CBDistillery
<img type="lazy-image" data-runner-src="https://assets.rebelmouse.io/eyJhbGciOiJIUzI1NiIsInR5cCI6IkpXVCJ9.eyJpbWFnZSI6Imh0dHBzOi8vYXNzZXRzLnJibC5tcy8yNDcwMjkzNC9vcmlnaW4uanBnIiwiZXhwaXJlc19hdCI6MTYyMTU4OTM4Nn0.ypRdeDSBcE87slYrFfVrRwtJ2qGIK6FD5jBB4pndTMo/img.jpg?width=980" id="b473b" class="rm-shortcode" data-rm-shortcode-id="9930b53c9d58cb49774640a61c3e3e75" data-rm-shortcode-name="rebelmouse-image" alt="cbdistillery cbd oil" data-width="1244" data-height="1244" /><p>All of the products from CBDistillery are <a href="https://ushempauthority.org/" target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer">U.S. Hemp Authority Certified</a>, and for good reason. The company only uses non-GMO and pesticide-free industrial hemp that's grown organically on Colorado farms. Its hemp oils are some of the most affordable CBD products on the market, yet they still maintain a high standard of quality. CBDistillery has a wide variety of CBD potencies across its product line (ranging from 500mg to 5000mg per bottle) and offers both full-spectrum and broad-spectrum CBD oils to give customers a completely thc-free option.</p>
$35
FAB CBD
<img type="lazy-image" data-runner-src="https://assets.rebelmouse.io/eyJhbGciOiJIUzI1NiIsInR5cCI6IkpXVCJ9.eyJpbWFnZSI6Imh0dHBzOi8vYXNzZXRzLnJibC5tcy8yNDY4NjIyNS9vcmlnaW4uanBnIiwiZXhwaXJlc19hdCI6MTY2NDIwOTEyMn0.MlTjz096FJ0ev_-soK7_Z-FeQeJczWoeh9Qi9SSkHsY/img.jpg?width=980" id="04b26" class="rm-shortcode" data-rm-shortcode-id="76aa4862f44603242e318982acea6646" data-rm-shortcode-name="rebelmouse-image" alt="fab cbd oil" data-width="800" data-height="800" /><p>For an organic CBD oil that has it all, FAB CBD offers plenty of variety for any type of consumer. All of its products are made with zero pesticides and extracted from organically grown Colorado industrial hemp. FAB CBD oil comes in five all-natural flavors (mint, vanilla, berry, citrus, and natural) and is also available in four strengths (300, 600, 1200, and 2400mg per bottle).</p>
$39
NuLeaf Naturals
<img type="lazy-image" data-runner-src="https://assets.rebelmouse.io/eyJhbGciOiJIUzI1NiIsInR5cCI6IkpXVCJ9.eyJpbWFnZSI6Imh0dHBzOi8vYXNzZXRzLnJibC5tcy8yNDY4NjIxOS9vcmlnaW4uanBnIiwiZXhwaXJlc19hdCI6MTY1NzExNTgyMX0.D6qMGYllKTsVhEkQ-L_GzpDHVu60a-tJKcio7M1Ssmc/img.jpg?width=980" id="94e4a" class="rm-shortcode" data-rm-shortcode-id="3609a52479675730893a45a82a03c71d" data-rm-shortcode-name="rebelmouse-image" alt="nuleaf naturals organic cbd oil" data-width="600" data-height="600" /><p>As an industry-leading brand, it comes as no surprise that NuLeaf Naturals sources its CBD extract from organic hemp plants grown on licensed farms in Colorado. The comany's CBD oils only contain two ingredients: USDA certified organic hemp seed oil and full spectrum hemp extract.</p><p>NuLeaf Naturals uses one proprietary CBD oil formula for all of its products, so you will get the same CBD potency in each tincture (60mg per mL), but can purchase different bottle sizes depending on how much you intend to use.</p>
$38.50
Charlotte's Web
<img type="lazy-image" data-runner-src="https://assets.rebelmouse.io/eyJhbGciOiJIUzI1NiIsInR5cCI6IkpXVCJ9.eyJpbWFnZSI6Imh0dHBzOi8vYXNzZXRzLnJibC5tcy8yNDcwMjk3NS9vcmlnaW4uanBnIiwiZXhwaXJlc19hdCI6MTY0MzQ0NjM4N30.SaQ85SK10-MWjN3PwHo2RqpiUBdjhD0IRnHKTqKaU7Q/img.jpg?width=980" id="84700" class="rm-shortcode" data-rm-shortcode-id="a2174067dcc0c4094be25b3472ce08c8" data-rm-shortcode-name="rebelmouse-image" alt="charlottes web cbd oil" data-width="1244" data-height="1244" /><p>Perhaps one of the most well-known brands in the CBD landscape, Charlotte's Web has been growing sustainable hemp plants for several years. The company is currently in the process of achieving official USDA Organic Certification, but it already practices organic and sustainable cultivation techniques to enhance the overall health of the soil and the hemp plants themselves, which creates some of the highest quality CBD extracts. Charlotte's Web offers CBD oils in a range of different concentration options, and some even come in a few flavor options such as chocolate mint, orange blossom, and lemon twist.</p>
$60
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By Brian Barth
Synthetic fragrances are out, aromatherapy is in. From beauty products to insect repellent to room diffusers, folks are gravitating toward fragrances made by nature—not the lab. But what exactly are these quasi-mystical substances called essential oils? Are they farmed or foraged? What part of the plant do they come from? Can I produce my own? Here, we answer the seven most common questions we get about essential oils.
<p><strong>1. What are essential oils?</strong></p><p style="">Essential oils are aromatic compounds found in many plants. In chemistry jargon, they're considered "volatile organic compounds." Volatility, in this case, meaning that they readily convert from a liquid to a vapor form at room temperature. In other words, what we're smelling are tiny molecules of vaporized oil that are lighter than air, which allows them to drift into our nose and lodge in our olfactory receptors.</p><p>It's been found that the smell of different essential oils can alter brain chemistry in ways that impacts our emotional and mental state, hence their therapeutic potential. Essential oils are also readily absorbed into the bloodstream through the skin or stomach, creating a physiological effect with potential medical applications.</p><p><em>NOTE: It is generally unsafe to ingest pure essential oils or apply them directly to the skin. They must first be highly diluted. Never use pure essential oils in any way other than that which is indicated on the product label. If you have any questions or concerns, it's best to discuss with your doctor prior to use.</em></p><p><strong>2. What is the purpose of an essential oil in nature?</strong></p><p style="">Plants produce essential oils for a variety of reason: to attract pollinators, make themselves unpalatable to insects and animals, ward off disease or even make the soil around them toxic to other plants with which they would compete for sunlight, moisture and nutrients. Depending on their biological purpose, essential oils may be concentrated in flowers, leaves, roots or bark.</p><p><strong>3. How are essential oils extracted from plants?</strong></p><p>There are several methods. One of the oldest, and still the most common, is steam distillation. In this method, hot steam is forced through the plant material and then collected in a condensation device that causes the vapor to return to a liquid. In ancient times, a technique called enfleurage was also used, particularly for delicate floral oils like rose: the petals were covered in animal fat, which absorbed the essential oil; alcohol was then used to as a solvent to extract the essential oils from the fat. In modern times, essential oils are often extracted in a high-pressure system using liquid carbon dioxide, or with chemical solvents, such as hexane and acetone.</p><p> <strong>4. Where are they produced?</strong></p><p>The U.S., India, China, France and Brazil are the world's <a href="https://atlas.media.mit.edu/en/profile/hs92/3301/" target="_blank">top five</a> essential oil producers. However, there are some individual oils that are typically produced in only a handful of countries, depending on where the species grows best and other factors, such as local labor costs.</p><p>For example, frankincense and myrrh oil, which both come from the bark of desert trees, are produced in the Middle Eastern and North African countries where the trees grow wild. Ylang ylang comes from the flowers of a tropical tree found in the islands of the South Pacific. Southern France traditionally produced much of the world's rose oil, but the high cost of land and labor in this region has shifted the majority of rose oil production to Turkey and Bulgaria. Essential oils produced on a commercial scale in the U.S. include peppermint (Pacific Northwest), cedar (Texas) and various citrus oils (Florida).</p><p><strong>5. Should I consider growing crops for essential oil production?</strong></p><p>Probably not, unless you're willing to do it on an industrial scale or live in a country with cheap labor—it takes enormous quantities of plant material, often picked by hand, to make a small quantity of oil and profit margins are notoriously thin. One exception is if you are going to produce value-added products using essential oils, such as soaps and beauty products. In that case, only small quantities of oil are needed, requiring perhaps just a few acres of land. A number of <a href="https://www.ecowatch.com/environmental-impact-essential-oils-2465879288.html">lavender farms</a> in North America have found success with this model.</p><p><strong>6. Can I make my own essential oils at home?</strong></p><p>Yes, but you will need an essential oil "still" for distillation—similar, but not quite the same, as a still for alcohol—which are not widely available. A few manufacturers offer them online, starting at about <a href="http://www.heartmagic.com/EssentialDistiller.html" target="_blank">$400</a>, or you should try watching eBay for a deal. Many of the essential oils found in stores come from common garden plants, including lavender, oregano, peppermint, basil, clary sage, lemon balm, geranium, lemongrass, rosemary, thyme, yarrow and chamomile. Depending on the species, you may need anywhere from a single plant to a quarter-acre planting in order to produce a small vial of oil. Plant material for some oils may also be foraged from nearby forests, including Eucalyptus, spruce, cedar, cypress, fir and pine.</p><p><strong>7. As a consumer, how do I identify good quality essential oils?</strong></p><p>Unfortunately, quality claims on essential oil products are not well-regulated and should be treated largely as marketing material. If a pleasant fragrance is all you are after, simply use your own nose as a guide. Therapeutic grade essential oils, however (those used by aromatherapists), are virtually impossible to assess without special training and scientific equipment.</p><p>Why is it so complicated? The same species grown in different soils, at different altitudes, harvested in different ways, and extracted with different methods will produce oils with significantly different chemical compositions, some of which are much more desirable than others for therapeutic use. Reputable essential oil purveyors only sell oils that have been analyzed for optimum chemistry. Many of these companies are <a href="http://naha.org/marketplace" target="_blank">listed</a> on the National Association for Holistic Aromatherapy website.</p><p>Testing also assures that the product is not contaminated with pesticide residue or other adulterants, whether from chemical solvents used in the extraction process or low-grade oil that has been used to "cut" an expensive oil to make it cheaper. For example, 10 milliliters of steam-distilled rose oil should cost about $500—because of the enormous number of rose petals required to produce it—but 10 milliliters of rose-scented geranium oil, produced in copious quantities from the leaves of an easily grown plant, retails for around $25. Both smell nice, but have very different aromatherapy applications.</p><p><em><em>Reposted with permission from our media associate <a href="https://modernfarmer.com/2018/02/essential-oils-explained/" target="_blank">Modern Farmer</a>.</em></em></p>
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Trending
By Nikki Yeager
Essential oils have enjoyed a boom in sales over the last decade as Western consumers search for alternatives to chemical-laden products that are toxic both to their bodies and to the planet. Since the first recorded essential oil blend was recorded in Egypt in 1,500 BC, people around the world have been using essential oils for their perceived medicinal properties. A market research study by Grand View Research estimates that the global essential oils market is expected to reach $11.67 billion by 2022. Such a high level of demand raises two vital questions: Where are all these essential oils coming from, and what is their impact on the environment?
<p>To begin with, in order to produce a single pound of essential oil, enormous quantities of plants are required: 10,000 pounds of rose petals, 250 pounds of lavender, 6,000 pounds of melissa plant, 1,500 lemons and so forth. According to Nicole Nelson, marketing coordinator for herbal distribution retailer Mountain Rose Herbs, due to a variety of factors, large amounts of produce are needed to produce oils. For example, some oils are more difficult to extract because instead of being externally secreted by the plant, the oils are stored in tiny cavities or ducts within the plant. Other oils provide small yields in general. For example, Bay Leaf can be expected to provide a 3 percent yield during distillation, whereas Rose Petals typically provide only a .006 percent yield. "Weather can also greatly affect the amount of oil that a plant produces from year to year," Nelson added.</p><p>In light of this, it's important to understand how plants for these resource-intensive products are farmed. The majority of popular essential-oils companies source their raw materials from corporate farms that turn out large quantities of plants. As with the cultivation of products on many large farms, pesticide usage is common. And there are currently no <a href="http://www.ecowatch.com/tag/organic">organic</a> certifications specifically for essential oils, which large companies like YoungLiving and DoTerra cite as a reason for foregoing organic certification all together. In the end, consumers are left largely on their own when it comes to discovering which <a href="https://www.ecowatch.com/tag/pesticides">pesticides</a> are used on crops that are used for essential oils—especially since most companies aren't voluntarily giving up that information.</p><p>One solution to large, corporate farming is wild harvesting, but this too has its downsides—some plants used for essential oils are listed on the International Union for Conservation of Nature Red List of Threatened Species, including sandalwood (<em>Santalum album</em>), which is listed as vulnerable, and rosewood (<em>Aniba rosaeodora</em>), atlas cedarwood (<em>Cedrus atlantica</em>), and rosewood (<em>Dalbergia abrahamii</em>), which are all listed as endangered. The commonly accepted rule by harvesting communities, including guidelines set by the Living Earth School of Herbalism and the San Juan National Forest Service, is that no more than 10 percent of any wild crop should be removed during a single harvesting session. Audits on wild harvesters can be done independently with a witness to the harvest, or by a third party company like Quality Certification Services to ensure wild harvests are done ethically. Still, overharvesting continues due in large part to a lack of information and regulation. And as plants become hard to find, prices rise, and in some cases, oils are adulterated to meet demand. Sandalwood, for example, has become one of the hardest to find essential oils. It also the most adulterated oil on the market.</p><p>However, there is good news to be had. It is possible to produce organic and/or pesticide- and herbicide-free oils, as well as wild harvested oils that do not damage plant species' survival. Companies like Mountain Rose Herbs provide oils that are certified "organic" by Oregon Tilth whenever possible, as well as oils that are wild harvested according to ethical harvesting guidelines.</p><p>Consumers can also check to see if a particular plant species is native to the land it's grown on. Native species typically grow with less intervention, because they are suited to the amount of rainfall, the type of soil, and the climate they are grown in. Non-native plants may need artificial climate control, chemical soil preparation and/or additional water due to the foreign environment they're being grown in. </p><p>Aside from the environmental impacts associated with producing essential oils, essential oils themselves can have an impact. Each pure oil comes with its own set of potential ecological and disposal issues. Each essential oil should have a Material Safety Data Sheet (MSDS) that provides toxicity information, flammability warnings and disposal directions. While this information is required of all essential oils in the U.S., many essential-oils companies, such as Young Living, DoTerra and Mountain Rose Oils, require consumers to contact the company directly to request MSDS information. By comparison, in the UK most MSDS information is posted directly on the company's website.</p><p>Most essential oils are extremely flammable—particularly <a href="https://www.ecowatch.com/are-lavender-and-tea-tree-essential-oils-hormone-disruptors-1882143092.html">tea tree</a>, clove, frankincense, eucalyptus, lavender, lemon and peppermint—requiring extra precautions when disposing of them or cleaning up a spill. Flammable oils are considered household hazardous waste in small quantities, and the containers holding those items cannot be recycled unless the oil is washed from the container. Some cities require that containers of flammable liquids be thrown in the trash rather than recycled, as even trace amounts of flammable liquid can pose a danger to recycling plant workers.</p><p>That being said, removing essential oils from a previously used container must be done carefully. Many oils—including the same ones listed above as flammable—are toxic to aquatic life, and can have long-lasting impacts on marine ecosystems according to their MSDS sheets. Most also come with a warning that the oils themselves should not come in contact with a water supply or groundwater, meaning they should never be dumped down the drain or toilet.</p><p>So how should essential oils be cleaned from a container, or disposed of, in case of expiration or contamination? If a bottle of oil has expired and is no longer good for therapeutic use, the best options for disposing of the remaining oil is to use it with a passive diffuser (a porous, nonflammable material that can soak up the oil and allow the scent to linger over a period of time) or to add it to homemade cleaning products for the scent alone.</p><p>If an oil is contaminated or rancid and cannot be used, it must be disposed of through a hazardous-waste collection service. Most cities offer hazardous household waste programs, which can be found through local waste-management programs. For large or bulk quantities of essential oils and carrier oils (oils like Jojoba and Sweet Almond oil that are used to dilute essential oils in oil blends), biodiesel salvage companies like SeQuentialPacific Biodiesel will accept oils for biodiesel production so the waste ends up being used productively.</p><p>Container recycling can also pose challenges. All quality essential-oils products come in glass containers, since pure essential oils can degrade plastic. Glass bottles can be recycled in most cities, though some cities, such as New York, require all glass that previously held flammable or hazardous materials be thrown in the regular trash. With 106 kilotons of essential oils produced in 2014 alone, that's a lot of glass bottles potentially ending up in the trash! Essential oils sold to consumers come with a plastic lid and either a rollerball or drop-dispenser—due to recycling constraints, these typically end up in landfills as well. </p><p>So how can essential oil aficionados best reduce their waste? Some companies allow customers to return bottles for recycling. If that service isn't available, the best way to recycle essential-oils packaging would be to dispose of the oils following the recommendations of your local waste-management company.</p><p>Essential oils are here to stay and can be a more natural solution to common discomforts and ailments than traditional chemical and pharmaceutical cures. However, it's the responsibility of consumers to question companies on farming practices and to commit to proper disposal and recycling habits. Without consumers taking the extra steps to vet their essential-oils companies, it's easy for this resource-intensive industry to fall into harmful ecological practices. </p>
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