FAQs
Have a question? See below. Still not answered? Message me & I’ll get you an answer!!! sarahkernanoils@gmail.com
Here’s a list of great resources to answer more in-depth questions on some topics:
Young Living Blog - recipes, DIYs, infographics, beauty & SO MUCH MORE
D. Gary Young Foundation - for more information on how Young Living gives back & how you can help!
What is a “carrier” oil? What does it do? Why should I use it?
I see the term “carrier oil” used in several places. What is a carrier oil, what does itdo, and why should I use it? – A carrier oil is a vegetable oil such as coconut oil or grapeseed oil that can be used to dilute EO. YL V-6 Vegetable Oil Complex is an excellent carrier oil for all applications. Carrier oils ensure that EOs applied topically are comfortable. Dilution with a carrier oil does not dilute the effect of the EO, and prevents waste due to excessive application. Vegetable shortening, butter, margarine or petroleum derivatives (petrolatum jelly) should never be used as carrier oils. Some consumers choose to avoid olive oil as a carrier oil because of its strong aroma and thick viscosity.
I’m new to essential oils. How are they used?
I’m new to essential oils. How are they used? –There are three basic ways to use essential oils (EO): topically (applied to the skin), orally (ingested by mouth), and as aromatherapy (directly inhaled or diffused). Each bottle of Young Living essential oil is labeled with directions for how that oil can be used, and these directions vary based on location. For example, Neroli and Jasmine are labeled for topically or aromatic use only, while Peppermint is labeled for oral use in the United States.
Can essential oils be used on children?
Many EOs are appropriate for use with children, and they should be diluted prior to use. Some YL products are pre-diluted with carrier oil as indicated on product label and are intended for direct application on children. Children generally respond well to EO, and use of a carrier oil is recommended. 1-2 drops of EO such as SleepyIze, RutaVala, Gentle Baby and Peace & Calming may be diluted in carrier oil and applied to the bottom of the feet.
How does sun exposure affect essential oil use?
Some EOs, especially citrus oils, contain natural molecules that react with sunlight (UV light) and cause a sensitivity reaction. All YL EOs and oil blends that contain these compounds are labeled with a warning to avoid sun/UV light for 12 to 48 hours after applying. Caution should always be used when starting to use a new oil: use patch testing (see above), dilute and apply the oil to skin that is protected from sun/UV exposure to reduce the risk of sensitivity. YL beauty and cosmetic products are formulated to remove sunU sensitizing agents to reduce the risk of sun sensitivity.
What is a hot oil?
"Hot oils” are oils that, when applied to the skin, can cause a hot or burning sensation. YL recommends using a patch test procedure prior to first use. To perform a patch test, apply 1-2 drops of EO to a patch of skin such as the forearm. Observe that area of skin over the course of 1-2 hours for any noticeable reaction; usually reactions occur within 5-10 minutes. If you experience a hot or burning sensation or if you develop a rash, add V-6 carrier oil to the affected area as often as needed. Examples of “hot” oils include cinnamon, clove, lemongrass, peppermint, oregano, thyme, Exodus II, and Thieves.
Are Young Living products FDA-approved?
The ingredients in our dietary supplements and foods are approved by the FDA for consumption. The ingredients in our cosmetics are approved by the FDA for cosmetic use. The FDA has not approved Young Living's products, but the ingredients used in our products.
Can essential oils be used during pregnancy or while nursing?
As with any medical condition it is strongly recommended that, prior to use of essential oils, you seek the advice and recommendation of a competent, trained health care advisor who is experienced in EO usage. It is generally recommended to avoid overuse and excessive use of Clary Sage (Salvia&sclarea), Sage (Salvia&officinalis), Tansy (Tanacetum&vulgare), Hyssop (Hyssopus&officinalis), Fennel (Foeniculum&vulgare), and Wintergreen (Gaultheria&procumbens) as well as the blends and supplements that contain these oils.
Does Young Living use pesticides?
We do not use pesticides at our Young Living farms or our partner farms. Both our farm practices and finished products are held to strict standards, and with the measures we have in place, we feel confident that we offer our members the best, purest products available.
Are Young Living’s products tested on animals?
Young Living has a policy against testing the efficacy or safety of its products on animals. Young Living’s products are formulated to be safe for nearly all users, and animal testing is neither required nor performed in our product development process.
How many drops are in a 5ml bottle & a 15ml bottle of essential oil?
There are approximately 85 drops (1 teaspoon) in a 5-ml bottle and approximately 250 drops (1 tablespoon) in a 15-ml bottle.
Is it possible to be allergic to essential oils?
Essential oils do not generally contain the proteins responsible for allergic reactions, which minimizes the likelihood of an allergic reaction. However, individual sensitivities do vary, and people can still experience sensitivities to essential oils. When using a new essential oil, dilution and a skin spot test is a good idea to ensure that you do not experience any sensitivity to that particular oil.
Are essential oils safe to use on or around animals?
Many people successfully use Young Living products with their animals. We offer Animal Scents™ products that are designed for use with animals, including an Animal Scents oil collection. For more information on this collection, please visit http://www.youngliving.com/en_US/products/essential-oils/collections/animal-scents-oil-collection.
What is the shelf life of Young Living essential oils?
Young Living’s essential oils do not expire and will maintain their integrity, efficacy, and beneficial properties virtually indefinitely, provided they are stored properly in a dark-glass bottle, upright and tightly sealed, out of sunlight, and in cool temperatures.
Can essential oils be ingested?
Many essential oils can be ingested. All of our oils that can be ingested feature a white Supplement Facts box on the product label and dietary usage instructions online. Research indicates that some oils are more effective when taken orally. Only pure essential oils, proven safe and labeled as dietary supplements, should be used internally. Dilution and dosage is dependent on the age, size, and the health constitution of the individual. Follow the recommended dosage on individual product labels to ensure safety or seek the advice of a health professional before administering oils internally.
Does Young Living practice sustainable growing methods?
We are committed to being responsible stewards of the environment and take great care to preserve and protect our planet’s natural resources. These core values are evident in our Seed to Seal® philosophy, which promotes sustainable farming and sourcing practices, while enabling us to produce the purest, most potent essential oils in the world.