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What Company Has the Best Essential Oils?

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Are you wanting to start using essential oils, but don’t know where to start? You’re ready to buy, but don’t know what company has the best essential oils?

You’ve come to the right place.

Essential Oil Bottles from a variety of companies | Which Essential Oils Company is Best?

Essential oils are all the rage these days.  People say that they can do everything from being a natural ear infection remedy, to helping with weight loss, to healing eczema, and more.

I’ve written various posts on essential oils in which I talked about:

Hopefully you can tell by those posts that I’m a skeptic at heart and pretty detailed when it comes to sorting through all the information out there to find out what really works.  In fact, many of my readers and friends have called me an “investigative reporter” of sorts.

My husband says that I “second guess everything.”

In one sense, second guessing is a good thing.  I’ve saved our family a lot of money by avoiding problematic purchases.

But sometimes I can go overboard and spend way too much time analyzing a product or purchase.  (Kind of like driving all over town to save a few pennies.  Not smart, especially as I saw gas at $4.11/gallon coming home from church last night. Big sigh.)

When trying to sort out this issue about which essential oils company is best, I tried not to be too analytical at first, and simply used what worked.  But then, things changed.

Wondering What the Best Essential Oils Company Is? I was wondering the same thing after I first started using them. So many companies say that theirs are the best, so who are you to believe? Come find out what I learned when I started asking questions. Things got a little dicey, and you'll probably be surprised by my conclusion.
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The Search for the Best Essential Oil

In the Are Essential Oils a Scam? – A Skeptic Looks at Thieves Oil, I shared how I held off trying really any essential oils at all for years before trying Thieves® from Young Living.

Truth be told, I did have a few old bottles of essential oils in my linen closet.  One bottle each of orange, eucalyptus, melaleuca (tea tree) oil, and rose oil, which I bought for topical use to brighten up my laundry [ended up never using it] and for my Homemade Chest Rub and Homemade Rose Water Spray.

This time around, before buying the Thieves oil and signing up as a Young Living Distributor, I dug around a little, but not too much.  

I asked about all the rumors surrounding Gary Young, the founder of Young Living and I also asked some questions about purity of essential oils.

I got some satisfactory answers and was pretty amazed at how well the Thieves oil had worked. And I was thrilled to have great resources in my natural health care arsenal.  

I mean, who wants to put more toxins in your body if you don’t have to, right?

However, after my post on Young Living’s Thieves and the other oils (Wintergreen and Peppermint, etc.), a number of readers started asking me about other oil companies. And so I too started wondering.

At first, I thought, “This stuff works great, and I’m pretty worn out right now, so I am just going to leave this alone and not start digging for more information”

But the “investigative reporter” in me just couldn’t leave. it. alone.

So I started poking around.

Today I’m sharing with you the beginning of my investigation.

Other Essential Oils Companies

There were some essential oils companies that I knew of, and some that a few readers recommended to me.

One of my readers was a doTERRA rep who said I really should check out their company to see how it measured up to Young Living.

Little did I know what lay ahead of me.

I started out with just a small list of companies, but the list quickly grew as the series went on and as more and more readers commented and as I went down more and more rabbit trails.  

I think you’ll find the whole thing interesting and I hope you’ll learn a thing or two about essential oils and the companies that sell them.

The Competitors: 

(UPDATE:  A lot changed after I started this series. Please follow the links at the bottom of this post to see how interesting everything got  – you can hop on over to read Part 2 of “The Best Essential Oils” here. 

To start off, following are the essential oils companies that were “on my radar” and so I started with these, wondering if I should stick with Young Living or switch to another company to be my family’s “best essential oils company” of choice

This is not an exhaustive list as there are a TON of essential oils companies out there.  After writing this series I felt like I really opened a can of worms, but these are the companies that I started with.  

Hang with me – it gets pretty interesting from here on out.

IMPORTANT UPDATE

I’m updating this post years later to add important information. I do not have all of the information in this series on why I didn’t choose certain companies so I would appreciate you not accusing me of coming to silly conclusions. I have gotten threatening emails (some of them were cryptic threats), and have been warned about being sued if I published certain things.

My family is important to me and while I don’t like to succumb to this kind of bullying, I have to weigh the cost of all of this. I am trying to be as upfront as I can about my decisions. Just know that what you are reading here is not the whole story. Not at all.

The Challenge

Following are some of the companies that I looked into.

1. Young Living Oils

I first tried Young Living when I thought that essential oils were a scam. I used them for a while and since I wanted to get as many savings as possible on the oils, I purchased monthly, took advantage of discounts, and stocked up quite a bit.

2. doTERRA Oils

Just before starting this series, several of my readers told me that I should really look into doTERRA as well, before making a hard and fast decision about which company to go with long term. So, I signed up with doTERRA as well. Follow along and you will see what happened next.

3.  Mountain Rose Herbs

I like Mountain Rose Herbs’ mission and have a few bottles of their oils.  When I contacted them they told me that they did not recommend internal use of their oils as they were not produced in a food-grade facility.

Much later (after this whole series was done) I contacted them again and they said that this was not the case.  The company also told me several times at later dates that they didn’t test their oils but trusted their sources.

4. Butterfly Express

This seemed like a good company to check out, but I ran into quite a bit of trouble getting information from them. When I called to ask them a number of questions, I was able to get some information, but then I was told that they didn’t have time to talk with me.

5.  Native American Nutritionals (now Rocky Mountain Oils)

When I first contacted this company, I thought that their prices seemed a little high for a company that wasn’t an MLM, but the more I talked to them the more interesting it all got.  

You’ll have to read more in the series to see what happened with this company….

THE VERDICT:  Probable high quality with no apparent earnings opportunity.   Need to check into this company more.  

6. North American Herb and Spice

From all I could figure out, this is a great company.

However, all they make is oregano oil.

So if you just want oregano oil, then this is a good place to turn.

THE VERDICT:  Oregano is a pretty amazing oil, but I want more than just that in my natural healing arsenal.

7.  Aura Cacia

I personally have a number of Aura Cacia oils that I bought prior to really digging into oils.  I can’t say anything except for my personal experience which is that they don’t smell as potent as some of the other oils that I have.  

I do like the company but for now, I’m not choosing to get my oils from them.   That being said, I think that they have a lot of great information about oils and their use.

Well, this is a long enough post already – thanks for sticking with me!

Onto the other competitors in the next post and see what happens!

A Great Essential Oils Book for Your Library

There are so many books out there on essential oils, that it’s hard to know what to buy.  I have a bunch, but this one, The Encyclopedia of Essential Oils, is a fantastic choice. It’s very highly recommended by many aromatherapists.

I Recommend
Encyclopedia of Essential Oils

Encyclopedia of Essential Oils

This is one of the bestselling essential oils books of all time with information on plant origins, therapeutic uses, folk traditions, and more of 165 oils. Great for everyone from beginners to experienced aromatherapists.

Check Price on Amazon


At the bottom of each of my posts in this series are books or other kinds of products that I love that relate to essential oils.

The Essential Oil Company I Prefer

If you’re in a hurry to find out which essential oil company I went with at the end of this search, read the following post:

– Announcing “the Best” Essential Oils Company – Part 7 

More Essential Oils Posts

Over the years, I’ve rewritten some of the posts in this series to make them more helpful. Here are some more posts to help you on your essential oils journey.

– Qualities of a Good Oils Company
– Tips to Spot Fake Essential Oils
– Young Living vs. doTERRA
– Are Multi-Level Marketing Oils Worth It?
– Distillation, Bias, Vomit and More Concerns

you can also read this post on Essential Oils Testing which gives you more information on how essential oils are tested for purity.

Free Essential Oils Report and VIP Newsletter Access

Also, if you go and grab my Free Report on 10 Things to Know About Essential Oils Before You Buy, you will not only get more myth-busting essential oils information, but you’ll get access to my VIP newsletter as well–complete with updates, great healthy living offers, of course new posts on essential oils, and more.

10 things you need to know about essential oils report in ipad

What are your thoughts?

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2,214 Comments

  1. I have got to say you really have much to learn about essential oils. Please stop slandering good companies just because of your over the top skepticism. NOW uses some additives to add to the scent. But their purity levels (what actually counts) are mediocre. You can’t go by scent considering certain companies add synthetics.

    Reply

    1. Hi Adam. Thanks.

      What did you think was over the top? Of course you can’t just judge by scent. I didn’t imply that. I was just confused by it.

      Do you have proof that NOW does that?

      Reply

      1. We have a bottle of Jasmine that we were using diffused for yoga. Reading the label it says specifically “Ingredients: Jasmine oil with other fragrances (synthetic)”.

        Reply

        2. Jasmine is a poor example of this ‘proof’. Jasmine, specifically, is one of the most expensive oils there is because of, to be brief, the conditions it has to be harvested under and how many petals you have to use to get an ounce of final product. A one ounce bottle of nothing but jasmine would cost hundreds of dollars. Even doTerra only sells a jasmine BLEND.

          The ‘Now’ brand jasmine fragrance is clearly labeled. It’s not a scam.
          There is a separate product from the same brand which is a jasmine absolute, and costs more, like other absolutes, but an absolute is STILL not what you’re thinking of.
          Jasmine is the worst ‘proof’ you can present as again, it is exceedingly expensive and uncommon in its undiluted form. It’s no knock against the ‘Now’ brand when it is simply industry standard, and it’s not their fault you apparently don’t know that.

          No, I don’t work for or get paid by ‘Now’, but if I’m reading this in 2018, other people are too and they deserve accurate information.

          Reply

        3. …my comment about jasmine having additives being a slanderous sort of ‘proof’ that NOW oils are some kind of scam is directed at ‘Brooke’, not the article author, of course..

          Reply

          1. Thank you so much for your comment and for your clarification. As long as the additives are being disclosed it’s fine.

            Reply

  3. I’m concerned about this statement “Aura Cacia is adamant about not using their oils internally.” They claim their oils are “pure and unadulterated”, so where is the hang up? I worry that there’s risk to using these on the body, in the bath, etc…

    Reply

    2. “I used to think that stating that essential oils shouldn’t be used internally was a red flag, but now I think that some of these companies are just being extra careful about recommendations.”

      Exactly. My impression from certified aromatherapists (ranting on the subject) that if a company recommends using their oil undiluted on the body or ingesting it without professional supervision, that’s a red flag. Some oils can be toxic when ingested–notoriously pennyroyal–and many are great in bath products or inhalations for adults, but cause problems when applied undiluted, or on sensitive skin or with children or animals. Natural and pure is better in many ways, but it doesn’t always mean mild or harmless.

      Reply

  4. I’m new to your blog, but appreciate it very much. Take a peek around PUREhaven also for essential oils and safer daily products anywhere from head to home and everything in between. My family uses their products

    Reply

    1. Hi Diane,

      Thanks for reading and for writing. I was a rep for Ava Anderson and was very discouraged about the head of Product Development whom they hired during the transition–Krupa Koestline. When confronted w/ GC/MS tests of their Eye Cream and how it showed that there was no helichrysum or calendula in it, despite those ingredients being on the label, she insisted that it was the wrong test to do and that when you make a cream you can’t test for the constituents. That is all categorically false. I have spoken with top labs about this. Were you aware of that history? It is disconcerting to me.

      I see she is not with the company now, but was thru 4/17. Do you know if they follow these procedures at Pure Haven? https://wholenewmom.com/health-concerns/pure-essential-oils-testing/

      Reply

  5. couldnt make it past your statement of ‘may have been a long distance phone number and we dont have long distance’ what year are you in?

    Reply

    1. The post was written a long time ago and we didn’t have an unlimited long distance plan then.

      Reply

  6. i was just diagnosed with serious candida. I am getting so many conflicting opinions on what my diet should be. i understand no sugar,no fruits,no gluten. What in gods name do you eat besides veggies and hormone free meat. i bought all types of vitamins and supplements and still have no idea what to eat. Avacado with Kale chips?Can i have hard boiled eggs for breakfast. i don’ eat much as it is and am starving……..Please help me ! What can i eat???????????? PLEASE or drink besides water?????????

    Reply

    2. Patti, you might try checking out Dr McDougall’s site online. People are getting great results, even all my blood work was better and I didn’t change diet totally. But the closer I kept to his way of healthful eating the less problems I had with candidia…I didn’t worry about gluten, I ate fruits, etc. if you follow his suggestions your body will balance itself. I lost 32 pounds eating this way. Great testimonials there. Oh yes, my RA is less painful! That was a biggie for me!!!

      Reply

      1. I love Dr. McDougall’s advice (It’s the Food) and I’m a big fan. His advice for eating changes is echoed by other Dr authorities such as Dr. Caldwell Esselstyn, Dr. Alan Goldhamer, Dr. Neal Barnard, etc.

        Reply

  8. Ive just started down this road. I DO NOT want to get into an MLM. I’ve done it way to many times. I was at a woman house having a hot flash and she gave me peppermint oil and turned me toward Doterra. I started my research and decided why not try amazon? You can find oils there for $0.35 and even $.99 for the same size as the others that run $14.00 and up.
    How do i know if these companies are pure oil and safe? I don’t have a lot to spend, I want the benefits, not just a smell.
    Suggestions?

    Reply

    1. Hello there and thanks for reading. Amazon is hard — first of all I heard that some companies are fudging their data sheets for Amazon b/c they are simple Word documents. That’s not OK. This post should help: https://wholenewmom.com/health-concerns/pure-essential-oils-testing/

      I will be writing more in the future. If you are so inclined you could sign up for updates here: https://wholenewmom.com/10-things-you-need-to-know-about-essential-oils-before-you-buy/

      Reply

        1. Hi Ginger. Why do you think that they are the best? I didn’t choose them when I started this search…for several reasons. Companies do change what they are doing, however–some for the better and some for the worse. I did notice numerous changes on their site.

          Reply

  10. Do you have any information on Plant Guru? I bought these oils from amazon.com.
    I am expecting my first grandchild in Oct. My daughter and I are looking for essential oils that are safe to use with an infant.
    What diffuser do you recommend for a nursery?

    Reply

    1. Hi there. I would recommend this post: https://wholenewmom.com/health-concerns/pure-essential-oils-testing/
      and if you would like update on oils and other things, here is where you can sign up for my newsletter. https://wholenewmom.com/10-things-you-need-to-know-about-essential-oils-before-you-buy/

      I always like a diffuser with a timer option that can run for at least 8 hours. But yes, be very careful with infants and the oils. The company that I went with has good diffuser options. Hope that helps.

      Reply

  12. Hello. I love using the oils but with all the hype I don’t know which ones are the better and purer ones to use. I read somewhere not to buy them from Wal-mart. I bought some the other day and I think I’ve heard of the brand but don’t know much about it. I was wondering if you might and could tell me if it was a good one. It is called Pursonic. I would greatly appreciate your input on this brand and what you know about it. Thank you so much for your time and help. Thanks again. & God Bless.

    Tina Spencer-King

    Reply

  13. Hi Adrienne! I really enjoyed reading this article and appreciate the throughout research you did on the essential oils industry! We’re a new essential oils company aiming at simplifying essential oils to make them easy to use for anyone, any day. We’d love for you to give our brand a try! Feel free to contact me to learn more. 🙂

    Reply

  14. I am looking for pomegranate seed oil. None of the companies you suggest have the oils I need. Also need Jojoba oil.

    Help!

    Reply

  15. I absolutely LOVE Aromatics.com and hope they come out to be great. If you do have any info on them, please share.
    Thank you <3

    Reply

  16. Can you tell us about Melaleuca company’s essential oils? The company has been around for 30 years so wondering if their oils are pure, first oils, etc.

    Reply

    1. Hello there. They have artificial colors and fragrances in their products so I didn’t really look at them. The fragrances might not be that big of a deal but I don’t see why cleaning products need colors. Thanks! This post should be of help: https://wholenewmom.com/health-concerns/pure-essential-oils-testing/

      And if you are so inclined you could sign up for updates here: https://wholenewmom.com/10-things-you-need-to-know-about-essential-oils-before-you-buy/

      Reply

  18. Hello, thank you for the great work, If you get a chance could you check PlantLife. I have a lot of their oils. I believe they have great products and also less expensive than some of the other companies. Thank you for the insight

    Reply

  19. What about Dr. Axe Ancient Apothecary formerly Numa essential oils – USDA certified organic? Any thoughts?

    Reply

  20. I’m new at this but excited to find out what therapeutic essential oils might help with “fibro”. I’m 73 and take 60mg. cymbalta every 24 hours. My pain is NEVER gone. Some days are better than others but I generally can’t do or go where I would I would if I didn’t have pain.I would appreciate any advice you can offer to me.
    Thanks,
    Ruby

    Reply

    1. Hello Ruby – I am so sorry to hear this. Essential oils are great for many things, but they don’t do everything. I personally had a lot of symptoms of fibro but it seems there are so many things that have helped people. I can’t medically advise, but I have some thoughts. I will email you.

      Reply

      1. Could you email me your suggestions as well? I have fibro too. Take the 60mg of Cymbals daily, ibuprofen, nothing seems to help. Any suggestions would help I’d love to Hear anything that might take even a little of the edge off!!

        Reply

        1. Kristi, I can’t medically advise but I have heard of numerous people resolving issues like this (including myself) with diet and supplements and lifestyle changes. I think our bodies are breaking under the burden of toxins and bad gut health and so doing everything one can to remove stressors (toxins, stress, poor sleep, bad foods, etc.) is the way to go for just about anything. I have also had great success on and off with the AIP diet that I hope to write more about but for us getting off of gluten and sugar and refined foods and highly inflammatory foods (dairy, egg, corn, etc.) has been key.

          My son doesn’t have fibro but he and my husband had amazing results this past month or so with a new thing. You can read about it here to see an example of how natural things have made a huge difference for us. Again, I’m not advising any of this as a cure for fibro – but my thoughts on disease is that there is a root cause(s) that sends the body downwards so you need to address those issues. And sometimes there are several or many: https://wholenewmom.com/health-concerns/cbd-experience/

          This post addresses toxins: https://wholenewmom.com/remove-toxins-healthy-lifestyle/

          And this one talks about the burden on our liver:https://wholenewmom.com/health-concerns/toxins-liver-detox-liver-cleanse-liver-health/ Hope that is all an encouragement. I hope to write more on these topics. If you are so inclined please consider subscribing: https://wholenewmom.com/10-things-you-need-to-know-about-essential-oils-before-you-buy/

          Reply