The most frequently asked question I get is “do I have to buy oils monthly?”
No you do not! If you don’t want to buy oils ever again, you don’t have to. There is a monthly option, but that is something you choose to do, not something you are required to do. Think of enrolling with Doterra like having a Costco card. You pay a fee to get a huge discount on oils.
What’s the difference between wholesale vs retail?
You can purchase oils two ways: retail or wholesale. For wholesale, you pay a $35 one time fee for a whole year in order to get a huge discount on oils and other Doterra products that you choose when, what, and how much or little to buy. Or, you can buy an enrollment kit where that fee is waived and you still get oils at a great price for a whole year.
Buying oils retail is crazy expensive. I seriously don’t recommend it.
How do I use essential oils?
The three ways to use oils are aromatically, topically, and internally. You can read more about safe oil usage here. Trust me, it’s easy!
What is a carrier oil + why do I need it?
I am a big proponent of safely using oils. I dilute every oil I use with the exceptions of Lavender and Melaleuca. Using a carrier oil, whether it be fractionated coconut oil, almond oil, jojoba etc., is key to safely and effectively using oils. Here are a few reasons why:
- It gives the oils time to work: Essential oils are volatile, meaning they evaporate quickly. If you are applying oils neat(without dilution) then they can evaporate before your body has a chance to properly absorb them. Using a carrier oil allows the oil to absorb in to your skin and actually drives the oils in further so they can do their job.
- Larger area for absorption. When you dilute your oils with a carrier oil, it allows you to apply the oils to a larger area. Rather than using a few drops of Deep Blue to cover a sore back, you can use one drop and fractionated coconut oil and it will work more effectively.
- Decrease risk of skin sensitivity. Although skin sensitivty is rare, it help eliminate the risk even futher.
- Convenience: Convenience is king in our house. If it isn’t easy, I am embarrassed to say, I won’t do it. Life is just too busy for that nonsense. One blend that my family uses daily is our Immune Boosting Blend. I have pre-diluted roller bottles to this in several spots in our house and one in my purse.
- It saves money: When you dilute your oils, you use way less and get the same affect. For instance, each 15ml contains about 250 drops at a 5% dilution you can make 25 10ml rollers. This is HUGE.
How do I dilute my oils?
You can either add a drop or two to carrier oil in the palm of your hand, or you can do my preferred method which is using a roller bottle. You can read more about my favorite oil tools here. You simply apply the right amount of drops, top off with your preferred carrier oil (mine is fractionated coconut oil), put on the cap, and voila!
I like to follow this chart so I know how many drops is the “right” amount. It never fails me.
Can I put oils anywhere?
No you cannot. You will want to avoid putting oils in your ears, eyes, or near your genitals. Your mouth may be a sensitive area as well. If you are taking oils orally, keep that in mind.
Can I use oils while pregnant or breastfeeding?
As with anything while pregnant or breastfeeding, always consult your physician first. Something to keep in mind while pregnant is that your skin is more sensitive and oils should be more heavily diluted. Some oils to avoid during pregnancy are clary sage, myrrh, and blends containing either one. These oils however are great to use during birth, as they can promote uterine contractions. An oil to avoid during breastfeeding is peppermint or any blends containing it, which can sometimes cause milk supply issues.
What about oils and sunlight?
Some oils are photosensitive and should be used with caution before going in to direct sunlight. You can read more about that here.
Are there any oils that need to be diluted more than others?
Yes. These oils can still be used confidently, they just may cause irritation if not diluted enough. It’s always best to heavily dilute and patch test in a small area. These oils are also not the best options for babies, as there are gentler oils available that can achieve the same benefits. These oils are Cassia, Cinnamon Bark, Clove Bud, Citronella, Cumin, Lemongrass, Oregano, and Thyme.
What should I do if I get oils in my eyes?
This is bound to happen at some point. Don’t panic and don’t use water. Think of trying to put out a grease fire with water. It will only make it worse. Instead, use a carrier oil on the area (fractionated coconut oil, olive oil, anything you have on hand.)