The Doterra Store Learning Center

Extraction Methods

Pure therapeutic grade essential oils are often extracted via a low-heat steam distillation process in which steam is circulated under pressure through plant material liberating the essential oils into the steam. As the steam mixture cools, the water and oils are separated and the oil is collected in its pure form. To ensure the highest quality oil extract of correct chemical composition, temperature and pressure must be monitored very closely. Too little heat and pressure will not release valuable oil, while too much can fracture an extract's delicate chemical composition and alter its potency.

Additionally, equally important to the carefully controlled extraction process, the careful selection of correct plant species and plant parts, harvested at the right moments when their essential oil compounds are most concentrated, is also required for a quality therapeutic grade essential oil extract.

This complex process is as much an art form as it is a science and requires experienced growers and distillers working together to ensure a superior product.

Certified Pure Therapeutic Grade Essential Oils

doTERRA's certified pure therapeutic grade (CPTG) essential oils are 100% pure natural compounds carefully extracted from the aromatic parts of plants. They do not contain fillers or artificial ingredients that dilute their active qualities and are free of contaminants such as pesticides and other chemical residues. They far exceed AFNOR and ISO standards for purity.

Many essential oils claim to be therapeutic grade, and some may be pure, but few are subjected to rigorous testing standards for chemical composition. doTERRA's certified pure therapeutic grade essential oils are cross tested using mass spectrometry and gas chromatography to ensure both extract purity and composition potency of each batch.

doTERRA works closely with a global network of leading essential oil chemists and growers to select botanicals of the correct species, grown in the ideal environments, and carefully harvested at the right time. The aromatic compounds of the plants are skillfully extracted by experienced distillers and subjected to chemical analysis to ensure purity and composition. You'll never have to worry about dilution or contamination.

Guided by their experienced Scientific Advisory Board, doTERRA uses only top development and manufacturing partners who maintain GMP certification and enjoy industry reputation for superior innovation and quality. Every doTERRA product is guaranteed to exceed customer satisfaction and performance expectations.

Aromatic Uses

Research has found that aromatic compounds have a powerful effect on the brain. When essential oils are inhaled, receptor cells in the olfactory system are stimulated and an impulse is sent to the limbic region of the brain. It is in this region that the brain controls reason, breathing, emotion, circulation, memory, hormone level regulation, and smell. Consequently, stimulation of the olfactory system has a powerful and often immediate effect on the body, both psychologically and physically. Some common uses include:

Inhalation ... by cupping your hands and simply smelling the oils. When finished, gently run your fingers through your hair or rub your fingers around your wrists.

Diffusion ... by placing water and the essential oil in a diffuser that disperses the essential oil as a micro-fine vapor into the air; a simple way to kill viruses, bacteria, and other airborn pathogens. Over time, these diffused oils strengthen the immune system and reduce mold and odors.

Steam ... by carefully pouring hot water into a bowl and adding several drops of essential oil. Cover your head and bowl in a tent-like fashion with a towel, and breathe in the vapors, deeply and slowly.

Spritzing ... by using 5-10 drops of oil with 1/2 cup clean water. Just shake well prior to use.

Topical Uses

Topical application allows essential oils to be directly absorbed into the pores, tissues, and hair follicles. The immediate area is stimulated, and the oils quickly enter the bloodstream and begin circulating throughout the body.

Since essential oils are concentrated when undiluted, only a small amount is needed. Carrier oils are excellent for massage and senstive skin, as they allow the essential oil to spread over a large area and reduce the risk of irritation. The best carrier oils are cold pressed, meaning that an expeller literally squeezes the oils from the dry fruit (like nuts and seeds), leaving the fatty portion of the botanical rich with vitamins, minerals, and essential fatty acids. Appropriate situations for direct application include burns, rashes, fungal infections, cuts, bumps, bruises, bites, and scrapes.

As for where to apply an essential oil, logic often dictates. Some of the most common locations include ...behind the ears ... crown of head ... forehead ... temples ... neck ... upper back ... abdomen ... over vital organs ... soles and top of feet ... ankles.

But as a general rule of thumb for topical application, place 2-3 drops of essential oil in the palm of your hand - OR - apply directly to the desired area. If placing the oil in your hand, simply rub your palms together in a circular motion and massage the oil in into the skin. Repeat as needed.

Internal Uses

Most essential oils have a long history of effective and safe internal use, and today doTERRA is one of the only companies to offer nutritional supplements made solely with essential oils. These potent and proprietary essential oil blends are targeted to provide digestive, immune, and antioxidant support.

If an essential oil is considered safe for internal use, the following techniques can be used:

  1. Add several drops of an oil(s) to an empty capsule and swallow with water
  2. Add 1-2 drops to water or smoothie
  3. Place 1-2 drops on a slice of bread or add to meals when cooking
  4. Add 1-2 drops on a teaspoon of honey or agave nectar to swallow like syrup
  5. Place a drop directly on the tongue, or under the tongue, and swallow (remember that some oils like oregano are very hot-strong, and are best taken in a capsule.)