There are many reasons why The Natural Village is proudly a doTERRA Wellness Advocate, but the reason number 1 is the co-impact sourcing model.
Please watch this fantastic little video to understand what this all means.
The name doTERRA is derived from the Latin meaning, "Gift of the Earth". This represents that doTERRA chooses to source the oils indigenously from their natural habitat while using ethical, sustainable practices and supporting farmers and its communities. Co-impact sourcing is environmentally and socially responsible sourcing and is a step above and beyond fair-trade. We also love the generosity and commitment to these communities, it is outstanding and through the Healing Hands Foundation and other humanitarian partnerships, many lives have been changed for the better. This impact and philosophy proudly fit with our ethos, mission and culture.
doTERRA essential oils are gently and skillfully distilled from plants that have been patiently harvested at the perfect moment by experienced growers from around the world for ideal extract composition. They do not contain fillers or artificial ingredients that would dilute their active qualities. Proper extraction and quality control methods also ensure that every oil is free of any contaminants such as pesticides or other chemical residues. In addition to being 100% pure and natural, they are subjected to further quality testing that ensures the correct composition of the active natural compounds found in each oil.
Essential oils are pure extracts from plants, they are 50-70 times more powerful than herbs and are nature’s defence mechanism for plants and cells. They are highly concentrated so a little goes a very long way and they are a safe, effective and affordable.
Anything less than certified pure, therapeutic-grade essential oil may not produce the desired results and can, in some cases, be extremely toxic.
Living a conscious life naturally with the purest, potent and effective essential oils is the best gift you can give to your children, your families, and your home.
HOW TO USE ESSENTIAL OILS SAFELY
When it comes to doTERRA Essential Oils all application methods are safe when used appropriately, including aromatic, topical, and internal methods. One or multiple application methods can be used for a wide range of emotional and physical wellness applications. They can be used a single oil at a time or in complex blends in one of three methods:
Aromatic
Essential oils are quickly absorbed by the smell receptors, which have a direct link to the limbic system by way of the olfactory nerve. The limbic system is part of the brain that supports a variety of functions including smell, emotions, behavior, and memory. For this reason, essential oils have an especially powerful effect via an aromatic application.
Some essential oils induce uplifting or invigorating effects, while others are more calming. Diffusion is one of the simplest methods for using essential oils aromatically. Diffusers that use cold air or water are ideal. However, using essential oils aromatically does not require any special diffusing devices. You can achieve the same health benefits by simply placing a few drops of essential oil in the palm of your hand that is then cupped around the nose as you breathe deeply.
Additional aromatic uses For Essential Oils Include:
- Apply oil to a cotton ball and place in the air vents of your vehicle
- Mix oils in a spray bottle with water and mist over furniture, carpet, or linens
- Add oil to a batch of laundry or to dryer sheets
- Use in household surface cleaners
Topical
Topical application is a very effective method due to essential oils have low molecular weights and are lipid soluble, they easily penetrate the skin. Once absorbed, they stay in the applied area for a localized benefit.
Although essential oils are readily absorbed, there are many ways to increase absorption. Using a light massage will increase the blood flow to the area of application, in turn improving distribution throughout the body. Use of a carrier oil can also increase absorption, especially in skin that is dry or flaky as it helps moisturize the skin and slow evaporation of the oil. To decrease the likelihood of developing a skin sensitivity, especially on young or sensitive skin, it is advisable to use a carrier oil (such as Fractionated Coconut Oil) to dilute more potent oils and when trying an oil for the first time.
It’s always advisable to use several small doses throughout the day rather than a single large dose. Start with the lowest possible dose (1–2 drops). A topical dose can be repeated every 4–6 hours as needed. Because every individual is unique, the dose will vary for each individual based on size, age, and overall health status.
Beneficial Areas You Can Apply Essential Oils
- Neck
- Forehead and temples
- Chest and abdomen
- Arms, legs, the bottom of feet
Other Effective Methods of Topical Application
- Add a few drops of oil to a warm bath
- Make a hot or cold compress by soaking a towel or cloth in water, adding essential oils, and then applying to the desired area
- Add oil to a lotion or moisturizer and then apply to skin
Sensitive Areas to be avoided:
- Some facial areas, such as the skin around the eyes
- Eyes and inner ears
- Broken, damaged, or otherwise injured skin
Internal
Certain essential oils have a rich culinary history and can be used as dietary supplements supporting a variety of health conditions. When you sprinkle cinnamon on your oatmeal, sip a mug of peppermint tea, or add fresh basil leaves to your spaghetti, you are actually consuming some volatile aromatic essential oil compounds while enjoying its fine taste.
Essential oil contributes many health benefits as well as flavoring and aroma properties to foods. When in their concentrated form, essential oils can be used as dietary supplements for more targeted and potent health benefits. Internal use is a very safe and effective method of application because of the sophisticated physiologic processes of our bodies.
When ingested, essential oils directly enter the bloodstream via the gastrointestinal tract, where they are transported throughout the rest of the body. Essential oils are lipid soluble so they are readily transported to all organs of the body, including the brain. Then, like all things we consume, essential oils are metabolized by the liver and other organs and are then excreted.
The composition of essential oils is highly complex. Each constituent possesses a unique set of biochemical properties that react with cells and organs in different ways. Although these mechanisms of action are not completely understood, the positive end results have been demonstrated. However, the body is only equipped to handle appropriate doses of essential oils.
Proper dosing according to labeling recommendations and other professional guidelines should be strictly followed to avoid toxicity.
Effective Methods of Internal Application
- Use oils in recipes for cooking or baking to replace fresh or dried herbs and spices
- Remember that essential oils are much more potent than dried or fresh herbs and spices, so start with a very small amount
- For more potent oils, it may be better to administer them by toothpicks (dip the end of a clean toothpick into the oil and then add to the food) rather than drops
- Add essential oils to water, smoothies, milk, tea, or other drinks
- Take essential oils internally in a veggie capsule or add to a small amount of applesauce or yogurt
SAFETY GUIDELINES WHEN USING ESSENTIAL OILS
- Be sure to use only 100% pure therapeutic-grade essential oils and follow all label warnings and instructions.
- If redness or irritation occurs when using essential oils topically, apply a vegetable oil such as fractionated coconut oil or olive oil to the affected area.
- Essential oils should never be used in the eyes or inside the ear canal. In the event of accidental contact with the eye, dilute with vegetable oil or fractionated coconut oil NOT water.
- Do NOT consume an essential oil internally unless labeled with the internal usage guidelines on the bottle.
- Discontinue the use of an essential oil if you experience severe skin, stomach or respiratory irritation or discomfort.
- We usually if not always dilute the oils on our kids. By applying a small, diluted amount of oil you can test for any sensitivity. Do not use oil on a child’s hand as they may transfer to their eyes or mouth.
- Consult your doctor before using essential oils if you are pregnant or under doctor’s care.
If you’re unsure about something – always ask!
Commonly used essential oils that need caution when applied topically on skin and should always be diluted:
Cassia, Cinnamon, Tea Tree, Lemongrass, Thyme, On Guard, Clove, Wintergreen, Fennel, Melissa.
Be aware that citrus oils are UV sensitive. When applied on the skin and then exposed to sunlight can cause the sun’s effect to be greatly magnified. Avoid sunlight within 12 hours after applying.
