An update on Young Living, the Cinnamon Bark Testing, Me, and this Blog:
There have been new developments regarding the Young Living Cinnamon bark testing and I am sharing them as I promised I would. My apologies for the delay, but this statement was not sent to me by Young Living and I had to wait to find out about it from others first and was on the road for the majority of today.
Before I get into the details of the statement, I need to take some time and address a couple things first. My story spread very quickly and much further than I would have expected and I’ve received some interesting accusations and remarks.
At no point in time did I, Crystal, or Betty think that Young Living was purposely adulterating oils and I can’t even say that I think that now. I do however, know that cinnamon is not grown and distilled by YL themselves so that opened the possibility of it potentially being a supplier issue, missed testing, etc. When I discovered that large amounts of essential oils such as Lavender, Wintergreen, etc were being imported by Young Living from places such as China, the safety net we always had of “we have our own farms” quickly evaporated and felt all we were led to believe was false (this is easily verifiable by looking up public record import logs for customs on websites such as Port Examiner and 52wmb.) The point was we didn’t know how this could happen and that is why we wanted answers. For those that do not know me, I’ve been a Young Living member and distributor since 2011. To say Young Living changed my life would be an understatement. There seems to be this conception that I am some kind of saboteur amongst a small group of people, but the truth is that I loved Young Living and they changed my life for the better by immersing me in the world of aromatherapy, essential oils, and chemical free living. I am not foolish enough to forget that, and I’ll forever remain grateful for some of the wonderful people I met at convention and the relationships I have built because of Young Living. Despite all of that, I will not remain ignorant to the truth. The fact remains that multiple oils/lots were tested and problems were found. The subsequent handling of the issue by Young Living was, in my opinion, very poorly executed. You all can make those decisions for yourself based on the facts presented. All of the statements issued by Young Living and Dr. Buch previous to the new one below were posted on my previous blog entry “The Day Young Living broke my Heart.”
The evening of Friday April 30th I received a letter from Julie Hunter with Conduct and Education at Young Living. It appears with the publication of my story the other day, I was in violation of the policies and procedures that my membership was bound to. The opening statement of the letter claims Young Living seeks to create an atmosphere of positivity and truth throughout its global business. My experience and the experience of others does not support this claim at all. In the letter I am given the option of removing my blog and comments, or terminate my membership. After speaking with the other distributors that I worked on the testing with, I discovered they had received the same letters from Conduct.
Let me make something very clear…. I WILL NOT be bullied or threatened in an attempt to keep me quiet and shut me up. Young Living is a company built on the backs of fellow distributors and members and those members, as well as general consumers have a right to know the truth and make informed decisions. No one should censor that information with orders to follow blindly and keep quiet. Based on the actions up to this point and the intimidation attempt, I advised Julie to terminate my membership. [A copy of the letter I received from Conduct can be found below]
Shortly after receiving the e-mail from Julie, someone off the website e-mailed me with a link to a new reply from Young Living and Dr. Buch. Again, I was never sent this communication by Young Living themselves as they promised they would and even now the next day I still have not received anything via email. [I’ve included a copy of that statement below]
In this statement, Dr. Buch talks in length about the process YL went through regarding the testing of the cinnamon bark. While I certainly appreciate this, it’s very unfortunate none of this was communicated with myself, or the other distributors involved in the petition for the past 3 weeks. A simple statement or e-mail outlining the steps that would be taken (securing raw material samples, re-distilling, etc) and a timeline of completion would have easily put everything else on hold before everything got so out of hand. The statement contains a lot of information, but zero documentation to back it up. Authorization was provided to the lab in Canada that did the testing to speak with Young Living chemists about the test results, as one would assume that any scientific professional and expert such as YL would want to collaborate with colleagues in their industry to better processes, procedures, and identify mistakes. A great deal of emphasis in the statement is placed on the data libraries the testing labs use. If this was a possible reason for a false reading, I would assume YL would want to reach out to that lab to confirm their data? This still has not occurred as far as I am aware when I checked with them last week.
The carbon testing that was performed by another analyst in Georgia still remains relevant despite the statement made by Dr. Buch and the distraction it attempts to create by referencing things such as the Shroud of Turin and ancient samples. The point the C14 testing makes is that a synthetic aromachemical that is derived from petroleum (as many are in the flavour and fragrance industry) will have a greatly depleted carbon-14 levels as fossil fuels are generally millions of years old [source] compared to anything from recent times. This is why a carbon-14 reading can sometimes be used to clearly distinguish a synthetic substance from one that was plant/nature derived. There is mention of conferring with “leading experts” on Carbon 14 analysis but no mention of who these experts are, which I think is highly relevant if you are going to site experts as facts.
The statement goes on to mention that numerous tests were run on both raw material samples, samples from around the world, etc. Where are these test reports? Where is the documentation? There is none. Coincidentally the statement from Dr. Buch was released right after my story went “viral” so to speak. Had we just been waiting for all these raw material sample tests to be completed, surely that could have been communicated to everyone? With the claim of being the “world leader in essential oils” consumers and customers hold Young Living to a high standard and expect the transparency that the company so commonly proclaims. All of us here have been robbed of that transparency by not being provided backup and documentation for these critical claims. Emphasis was placed on the fact the scientists interpreting the GC/MS data need to have the training and experience to correctly interpret it, perhaps insinuating the chemists at Laboratoire PhytoChemia do not. Yet YL themselves used Chemtech-Ford, an analytical laboratory not accustomed to testing essential oils? Based on their website they focus on drinking and waste water, soil, and hazardous waste groups. Why did they (YL) not reach out to the chemists from PhytoChemia who performed our testing? The high coumarin levels presented in one of the tests was not adequately addressed either, which is concerning for anyone on blood thinning medications/OTC’s.
Even though the questions continue to mount and documentation and proof continue not to be shared, we are closing the petition created several weeks ago on change.org. The petition’s purpose was to get answers to a specific list of questions. While those answers may not be complete, explained to our liking, or backed up with documentation, they are answers nonetheless. It’s very clear the direction and stance Young Living wishes to take over this issue and that they will not be looking into it any more. This is evident by the communication issued by Matt French with YL legal that advises Diamond leaders to “set the tone” in their downline and move forward with business as usual. [copy of that communication can be found below]
What does that mean for everyone else left still wondering? It means my/our task of seeking the truth is not over. More testing is being commissioned of both Young Living products as well as others in the aromatherapy industry. While this started as simply sharing my story and experience, after numerous emails and comments from concerned members, customers, and un-related parties I know now that I must continue this path of seeking the truth and sharing it with all of those ready and open to see it. I know I will continue to be threatened and slandered as I do this. I’ve come to realize through this ordeal that people get extremely creative when their beliefs or livelihoods are under siege. I understand this and I sympathize with those feeling that way as I was in your shoes not long ago. I’m always open to having a dialogue with those of you who may think I’m working for a competitor or have other motives as it’s certainly not the case at all which is why I have zero recommendations for anyone asking which companies to use. The only reason I had this website to start with was for my YL business.
In subsequent entries I will be posting the results from the latest test results we received regarding the other oils sent for testing including Young Living Lavender and German Chamomile, DoTerra Cinnamon Bark, Plant Therapy Cinnamon Bark, and more. There is also a fundraising campaign running right now to raise additional funds for more testing of oils and companies that contributors vote for, so there will be more testing and results to come! You can check back here when you like, or you can subscribe to be notified of a new post by entering your e-mail below. I’ve provided the subscribe option only because I’ve been asked for it so many times. I have no interest in anyone’s email address except for the explicit purpose of notifying you of new posts regarding essential oil testing. As my distributorship with Young Living has been terminated, I have zero affiliation with another product company and am not interested in selling you anything. My comment on my previous article about not being interested in joining another MLM oil company still stands, so please do not e-mail me your links, offers, etc. Please also refrain from posting them in the comments section as they will be flagged as spam and not approved for posting.
Learning Reader says
Very Interesting and enlightening. Thank you for sharing. I’d like to add an interesting observation which was not made in your post. I am referring to the letter from Young Living to Diamonds which contained a chromatogram from affected lot. They show an example of the spectrum which, as they later state, does not show any evidence of adulteration. Two things are interesting.
1) The date on the chromatogram is 20 Feb 2016. This is a month before your analysis and report to Young Living. Even though they state that they remeasured the affected lot, they had chosen to show the old measurement result. Why?
2) The format of the graph, which stretches along the length of the page and which vertical scale is adjusted to the height of the dominant peaks, could suggest one of two possibilities:
a) they use very old tools, e.g., purchased used. New tools use more sophisticated way of presenting spectra in high resolution (compare this graph with the graph in a lab report which you paid for).
This, by the way, could explain why they refuse to share their measurement data with consumers. It is just embarrassing to show such low end measurements. It would show that their praised control is worth nothing.
b) they intentionally changed the scale to hide all small peaks which could show components which do not belong to this oil.
ERae says
Young Living is not going to shoot their goose who lays the golden eggs. Responses given by Young Living to this testing matter are all about keeping their money pipeline in working order. Obviously, those in a position to actually make sure the essential oils are pure KNOW they are NOT, and don’t care, as long as the money continues to flow to their pockets.
Sarah says
Curious if you’ve had any doterra oils tested to compare for puroty against young living?
Trina says
Have you heard about the recent law suit with Young living? I believe it’s called the Lacey act? I have been a rep for little over a year now and I’m so upset with this news. I’m just wondering what your thoughts are on it.
Lara says
I was recently introduced to this by a friend at a friendly gathering in someone’s living room. I’m open to alternative therapies and cleaner living so I went, listened to their pitch, and bought some products. What I 100% did not understand was that I had just signed up to be a “distributor” and would now have to spend around $100 per month (plus a lot of shipping costs) automatically debited from my account to add up to the “50 pv per month” requirement to keep my membership status. I don’t even know what the hell a “pv” is. Not only was it never explained to me, it was never even brought up. So when my account was debited almost $120 only a few weeks later for the next order (which was exactly the same stuff I just got) that’s when a healthy dose of skepticism also fueled by what seemed the be rather bold claims about what some of these special blends could do kicked in. When I tried to reduce the amount of my order the website would NOT allow it. It just gave me the same message that I had not met my requirements for the month and defaulted back to the $100 plus shipping order to be processed. So, I tried to cancel it. It wouldn’t allow that either without me jumping through a bunch of hoops with placing calls to customer service. At this point, I was just pissed. I felt deceived and had no interest in interacting with a company that uses high pressure sales techniques to sell all these one of a kind products that will cure anything and everything all while banking huge amounts of money. Why are people so easily fooled into thinking that companies selling these types of “all natural” products and getting extremely rich off of making extremely weak, if not all out false, claims have their best interest at heart? How is it any different from what companies like this accuse pharmaceutical companies of doing in making huge profits off selling their products? My gut was telling me this was all a little too “cult-like” from the beginning and the lack of any actual science to back up all these claims left me hesitant to make a purchase in the first place. Now that I’ve done research (and not just reading one guy’s blog) I’m disgusted that a company that promises to change lives with its products uses lies and misleading practices to make HUGE profits. From now on I’m going to stick with my gut and save myself from getting scammed in the future. Also, anyone who has zero training in the field of medicine should be telling people to use oils to treat an undiagnosed (or diagnosed) illness instead of seeing someone who is an actual medical professional. Not saying that you have to take a pill to treat everything. But buying thousands of dollars of essential oils every year isn’t the best idea either when some of them can be dangerous as well. At least research what you’re getting into first.
Katrina says
Whoever did the pitch lied to you. To keep an active membership you only have to spend 50$ a year. They want you to do the essential rewards because they can make money off you that way.
Brittany says
It sounds like you were signed up for Essential Rewards, which requires a monthly order of 50pv’s, or $50 on most products. Maybe you were unaware you were signed up for that, i don’t know, but it is definitely not mandatory to be on ER to have a YL membership. It’s definitely not a scam, it was just misinterpreted to you and your upline should have properly informed you. I’m sorry you were confused.
Andrea says
Sounds like you did not fully read or was fully informed upon your sign up. I did both membership and ER and my upline made sure confirm this with me and offered assistance every step of the way. A good upline is key to your success
Lisa says
This is why I can’t listen to anyone who take essential oils, and their brands, as gospel. How ridiculous is it that people consider YL the TOP brand… but they have all of these easy to find problems… that people ignore when confronted with.
Or the argument against essential oils on amazon… because YL and DoTerra MLMs can’t get a grasp on it. Like there couldn’t possibly be reputable brands that sell on Amazon.
People are seriously brainwashed about EOs. it’s CRAZY.
Tiffany Baron says
dōTERRA doesn’t care about other oils sold on amazon. They don’t want their oils being sold there since there is no guarantee of unadulterated product. It’s very easy to dilute down the oils and sell it for a much higher profit. In many instances that has been the case, and by extension falls back on the company as being unpure.
Jaymie says
I know right? It’s actually scary. I have friends that have started selling YL and I joke that they’ve joined a cult, but it’s not totally a joke. There is very much a cult-like mind-set.
Evelyn says
Essential Oils really are amazing…plants were created for our benefit and health. Yes, it is important to have authentic essential oils and be educated in usage and dilution. Mountain Rose is a great company that sells mostly organic essential oils. Rocky Mountain Oils are also extremely good quality. Neither are MLM companies and have solid, ethical practices as well as a willingness to be transparent and offer answers (this is in reply to Lisa). Aromatics International is also an extremely credible company and she offers classes on usage (and an excellent free class).
Miles, I very much appreciate your honesty and perseverance in this matter. Truth will prevail.
kim says
Thank you for your bravery in posting this. I am a strong bibke believing Christian and also been in the fitness and wellness industry for many yrs. I am a strong advocate for naturopathic medicine BY MD’ who have gone into this field. I know by healing the body removing toxins changing your daily diet along with exercise we can overcome many illnesses. I’ve been researching EO and a friend is heavy into YL and gave me a book on OOLA. ONCE I SAW THAT red flags went off in me and hasn’t stopped so I’ve been digging into this company and found all sorts of false lies they are saying. This is how I found you and thank you so much for being another person who seeks the truth and wants to expose the lies and those who are making millions off all these blind followers. A company that insists you never EVER get education from a highly regarded accredted college has something to hide!
B Musil says
A family member started selling YLEO a few years back and asked me to consider joining her. After researching D. Gary Young – both past & present, my opinion is that he is unethical. His company is for profit so that’s the bottom line. His goal is to make money & he will do anything he can to accomplish that goal – lie, cheat, slander – whatever it takes. The products are very expensive so the hype has to be high. I don’t trust the man so I don’t trust the company. His company took off when he married his 3rd wife, Mary – a multi level marketing genius. So, if they can sleep at night taking in lots of money built on hype & lies, they are not the kind of people I care to do business with. Thank you for digging deeper into the oils themselves. I look forward to any updates you post.
Jan says
I would love to learn how to make my own pure oils but don’t know where to even start! For my own personnel use and not for sale. Can anyone help me on this. I left YL because a change in atmosphere at the corporate level really left me uneasy! I noticed the change when YL filed the lawsuit against DoTerra. You have confirmed my suspicions. Thank you.
kim says
Jan go to Dr. Mercola s website and he goes through a bug list of EO and what used for and how to make. I think 25 or more he’s listed.
Candy S says
I’m sorry you had to go through this, but thank you for doing it so we, JQ Public can be spared. Please note I am not soliciting. Just a truth seeker.
Diane says
I am curious what you have found now that YL has FDA approval on several of their oils, including Thieves, for ingestion?
Stefanie says
FDA has also approved cancer causing medicines and food that our children eat! Should never be regulated by the FDA!
Trina V. says
Sorry, but I don’t trust FDA labels on anything. Go with your gut feeling and do research.
Ann-Marie says
Where is the proof of this FDA approval? I’d like to see it thanks
mICHELLE says
THe FDA did NOT approve the oil for ingestion…THe made them change the labels…They approved the LABEL for them to be place on the company’s “vitality: line of products.Due to the fact they said a oild cant be labeled for aromatic, internal, and topical all on the same label..Hence why they created the “vitality” line!!! SAME OILS JUST A DIFFERENT LABEL!!!! I JUST LEFT THIS COMPANY AFTER ALL I READ!!!!
Ann-Marie says
Also, it is commonly known that the FDA may approve things for ingestion that have not proved fatal. It does not mean the thing is the purest heart chest quality. All of this mess could be avoided if Gary Young and his team would just be legit about their claims. And it’s true, the ONLY people that ignore or get offended by this evidence are people who are trying to orsucceeding at making a living. But this isn’t about money, it’s about unbacked claims and ethics, which as I recall Dr Young has not always been so positive about.
andy says
He’s *not* a doctor. That’s all fake.
Mary Nein says
I think he is a chiropractor. Thus the Dr. not an MD
kara says
I am so confused now!! I am new to EO but I am also a truth seeker and appreciate your post. thank you. What are we suppose to use? Do you recommend any others? I am so confused. I base everything around ethical choices
Miles J says
Hi Kara,
The best I can suggest is you carefully do your research. There are plenty of ethical and quality companies out there. I am not affiliated with any, therefore I do not recommend one particular brand but you can find them if you look around 🙂
Jennifer Laura says
I am not affiliated with any oil company, but I would suggest staying away from MLM as they are trying to sell something to you with an agenda. Their agenda is to make money. While other companies will use marketing techniques they are not your friends/family trying to start a business. I lost a long time friend over YL because I did research and had questions and she never answered any of them. It could be my auditing background, but I need an excellent system of controls to spend the amount of money that YL wants you to spend on their product.
Margaret says
I am a new student in aromatherapy working towards geting registered. I’m learning a lot about how to test for quality and how to look for companies that offer pure essential oils. One of the major problems I’ve had with YL is the company’s total lack of concern regarding the use of oils safely! Using oils neat and ingesting them are big no-no’s according to everything I’ve learned, (especially with children). Also the disregard of any information That contradicts what Gary young’s teachings Are. That is just dangerous. My aromatherapy teacher has us learn from her books but also from other leaders in this industry.
Saralea Heaton Greener says
I used Young Living Essentail oils from 2002 to 2008 (fiance caused me to reduce my spending). I was very much in poor health when I discovered them.
A very busy beautician. Corpal Tunnel, breathing problems, tired! Stressed! Getting away from pharmacy was the best answer ….. to wonderful beautiful essential oils. While working on my breathing problem, stress, tired, after several years my corpal tunnel was gone as well as the arthritis on my right shoulder. What a surprise! Four years earlier I had a pre-opt. The surgeons were going to cut my wrists and fuse the tendons etc. I grabbed my coat and left telling them “no way are they getting me in the operation room”. So glad I didnt have that operation! Youngs oils took ahold while I suffered and styled hair. Love the oils and how they helped me.
Angele Vallieres says
Hi Miles!
I can’t thank you enough for all the leg work you’re putting in to this! I recently just started using essential oils because I’m looking for alternatives and signed up with YL. I am also in the processes of going through to become a certified aroma therapist. In my classes the GC/MS reports are important to be able to see the chemical makeup of the oil (plus whether its been adulterated).
In my opinion you really hit home when you mention the lack of transparency. I really don’t understand why YL wouldn’t just provide that information unless YL is hiding something. The company really needs to rethink their policies on providing information and being a more transparent company. I would love to see the GC/MS reports for all the oils I have purchased from YL.
It seems like a no brainer: to increase sales you need to .. listen to your customers! What do your customers want? I see it first hand in my husbands business he and his best friend have built from the ground up. All this bullying and slandering you’re putting up with just makes me think that YL has something to hide. It’s ok to defend your name but if you’ve got nothing to hide then you really shouldn’t have to defend it, especially if you’re doing nothing wrong. How hard is it to post the GC/MS reports for all the oils on the YL website? I’ve seen other companies do it. How much more would it cost the company to provide results for tests that they are doing anyway… or say they are doing anyway? Right? How difficult can it really be? If the company is so worried about loosing customers and being slandered for adulterated oils then just provide the necessary documentation and be done with it. No? Don’t give your customers something to question.
Ann-Marie says
AMEN
Ann Gedeon says
I am a Young Living distributor and last fall I became aware of a company called GuruNanda. I am very impressed with the quality and prices of their Essential Oils especially the TRANSPARENCY of each oil. You can click on TEST RESULTS for every single oil that they sell.
Please check it out – you will NOT be disappointed!!
ESPECIALLY when you can purchase FRANKINCENSE for 1/10 of the price!!!!
Patrice says
Just read an article about some essential oils being contaminated in “Truth About Cancer” article, which lead me to finding your article. I have read things like this before but didn’t want to believe it. However your research on this seems thorough and unbiased and I believe what you say. I, like many of you, recommend these to many people with health issues (cancer, etc.) and feel terrible that someone with a fragile immune system could further jeopardize their health by using these oils. I myself am taking a month off of using YL oils since I have had nerve issues in my legs and now am wondering if it the EOs can be a contributing factor. I was using them daily for veins on my legs. This is not only sad but very alarming.
Rachel says
Thank you for digging deep and being committed to truth. As a former young living auto ship customer I was spending 1000s of dollars on esential oils per year with the belief that YL purity could not be matched. I also do Reiki and generously used the oils on clients who were in great need of holistic therapies. Your information changes everything for me. My boyfriend and I are saving up to buy a house and start a family in the next few years. Im still a fan of essential oils but it gives me so much peace of mind to know it doesn’t have to be through young living or at such a high price.
Sis says
I could not help notice that you only put in positive responses to you and not others responses defending Young Living, so that said, it gives me the thought that you are not sharing everything and so this makes it hard for me to want to believe in what you say! It kinda makes me think that you are with another company and you want them to shut down so you can sell more of your products?
I think I would like to hear defending responses!
Miles J says
There have been plenty of responses that went through from people who defended YL. A lot of comments get automatically marked as spam for various reasons (which I don’t have time to go through). However, when most of the comments are from people who have not read all of the information, or are getting made for not including YL’s replies (even though they’ve all been included, people just fail to read fully before jumping on the comment band wagon) then of course I’m not going to post those comments as they serve no useful purpose except to further encourage people not to read all information presented to them.
Miles J says
Further more…I have no products of my own that I am selling and don’t intend to. You’ll also notice this website doesn’t even have advertisements on it! Don’t throw accusations around when you haven’t fully fact checked your information.
Tiffany Baron says
I’m very proud of the company I order through. I’m so sad you aren’t able to experience essential oils anymore due to a dishonest encounter with this company. Hopefully you find one you can trust. I don’t know where I would be without my essential oils!!
Saralea Heaton Greener says
I go with you! Too much negatives, no one telling how the oils accomplish their needs in using them.
Ruth Ann says
Thank you for your honesty and for sharing this with us. I grew up using YL oils but over the last few years have felt they did not have the quality I was used to. Because of that I quit using them but because I did not want to put them in a bad light I have been telling others, YL oils are good!
Now I feel ashamed for doing that and for not pursuing the matter when I knew the oils are not what they once were.
I will be following this story and am proud of you for digging to the bottom of this.
Natalah says
I could NEVER support, purchase, or be a part of any company where the owner, founder and main man has been arrested multiple times, from assault w/an axe, death of his child, to practicing medicine w/OUT a liscence or degree from any accredited university. He is also involved in 1000’s of medical
Malpractice suits etc. Also, he’s never provided documentation or photos of his “accident”. Look at the video posted by the highly regarded gentleman he was w/ when he visited Somalia in Oct. 2014! The man is a FRAUD that uses people’s faith as a vulnerable way to sink his claws in and lie to them over & over!! If anyone did the littlest amount of research on this guy they would RUN! No way on this earth is he doing what is “claims” to do or are these oils as pure as he claims! Even in his books he talks about things that are not scientifically correct. How in the world he’s not in jail is beyond me! Do your research people! I bet every oil made by YL would produce such results!
Samantha says
This is why I am switching. I did my own research and decided that YL are not the best, they recommend dangerous practices with their oils such as ingesting which can lead to long term liver failure, and they have a scary cult like following and the man in charge as you say is a criminal and IMO a fraud. I have found a couple of other companies that I like and find the quality to be as good if not better. Glad I did my research before I got in too deep.
Jillian says
Wow! Natala, those are very serious claims! Has he really been charged with all of those crimes? If synthesized EO wasn’t enough for me to discontinue use then these very serious crimes are.
tanya says
Hi Jillian,
Out of curiosity, what company do you think is reputable?
Julie Barr says
I sure wish someone would have Frankincense tested. As much as it costs…!
Sheila says
The Cinnamon Bark costs almost the same as Frankincense. The wholesale cost for Cinnamon Bark is $4.80/mL. The wholesale cost for Frankincense is $4.90/mL.
Karie says
If you go to DOTERRA’S website you can look and actually see what goes into harvesting the Frankincense, then it will make more sense.
Catherine says
Thank you so much for your blog and research. I am very concerned about any medical or food (or any products) coming from China. Maybe I missed it, but how did YL address the fact that the materials were not coming from their own farms?! I thought that their Seed to Seal “promise” guaranteed this. I am very disappointed.
Stacey says
sorry, i just saw it was Silver and above got the email.
Donna says
Thank you for this. We just started building our YL business last year, but integrity is very important to us. While we’re not going to throw in the towel just yet, we’re very interested in any further unfolding of this story. I’ve loved using the oils. This is so sad. Thank you.
TML says
My grandmother butted heads with these people back in the mid-90’s. She was a Master herbalist and noticed some issues with the oils and had them tested. So as far back as 97 YL knew and continued to sell adulterated oils.
HopeK says
I would agree with this, as our experience with YL in 1997/1998 was similar.
Sharon says
Would someone recommend a reliable source to buy EO? I would really appreciate
it. I love using the oils and feel they work but don’t want to use something synthetic.
Thank you.
Dee Dee says
I am confident in the brand I use as we have access to fhe test results for each batch. I have asked Miles for info on the lab he uses so that I can further validate the purity.
sandi domes says
What brand is that
Gary says
RMO(formerly Native American Naturals)
Julie Barr says
I was told a long time ago(I dont remember by who) that the owner of RMO once worked for Gary Young at YL Oils and learned everything from him. I don’t know that for a fact though.
I am very disappointed in YL over this. I have recommended Thieves to hundreds of people for the last decade. I did not sell it…I gave it away. I was only a distributor for the discount. I feel very betrayed, as I’m sure most of you do.
Diane says
Hi Sharon,
First off, I’m shocked to hear this about Young Living. I have many friends who love it. I’m sure they would not even believe me, if I were to tell them about this. I have chosen the other company, doTERRA. These oils are amazing. They work on the testing for every batch 6 times by a 3rd party. You can check out the info on my site, if you would like. DianesOils.com I sure would not buy any from the stores. Those are all diluted. I would love to answer any questions you may have. I drive bus, so text me at 619-729-5589. Good luck and Thank you, Diane 🙂
C.L. says
doterra has Adulterated oils as well. Do your research!
tonya says
where’s the proof of that? please provide
tanya says
CL can you please provide a link showing that Do Terra has adulterated oils ?
Is there another company that doesn’t produce adulterated oils?
KariwKarie says
doTERRA has 3rd party testing. They keep oil from every batch. They just won their lawsuit with YL. Their oils are pure. Nonadulterated.i have gone to the websites and looked at the results
Diana says
Believe me, Young Living HAS to be better than other companies. Not saying perfect, but I certainly say the best essentials oils that you can buy. The other companies in my opinion are way worse.
I feel if you are using essential oils, use Young Living or do not use essential oils at all !!!!
Mary says
I love Plant Therapy. Tisserand is involved with them.
Lexy says
sooo, not to sound ignorant or anything but, I notice the main concern with the traces of synthetic materials is mainly directed towards internal use. How about with diffusing the oils or cleaning with them? Are they less safe using them in those manners? Just wondering if I should use the rest of these oils I have left. :/
Miles J says
The synthetics found were what you would find in foods and flavouring so there would be no issue using them for cleaning. I personally wouldn’t diffuse them.
Jeannette Forget says
I have been with YL for over 3yrs now! While reading most of the comments, I am now very concerned and worried about how I have used the oils in the past. My question is: Is it only the Cinnamon Bark EO that is adulterated or are all oils not pure and/or should we not ingest any of these oils?
Dorothy says
For the record you skin is the largest organ of the body and even the it provides protection from the elements like rain – it DOES absorb what you put on it. This is why essential oils work. The trace minerals within the plant oil support the proper function and structure of the body.
Everything we absorb internally or externally, be it food, air, liquid etc., is processed by your liver, the hardest working organ of the body. The reality is the results of “synthetics” and chemicals in any products may not manifest itself immediately.
Adrienne @ Whole New Mom says
I think it depends on what synthetics you are talking about. It might not be a good idea to use them for cleaning either.
Deanna Fossen says
Thank you for everything you are doing!!!
Suzy says
I think what you are doing is admirable. I appreciate the fact that you are not cowering to any bullying as well. The thing I found interesting from your first post about this, was the fact that YL didn’t want to say where their oils were distilled from/where they came from.
Thanks again!
Diane says
I agree. Very brave of you to call them out on this. You must have great courage. Good luck to you in the future. Diane 🙂
susan sobon says
I looked up YL on the Port Examiner, that you linked, and the only shipments from China i find are for plastic components and diffusers. I did find two shipments in 2013 and 2014 for oils from equador and england. I dont recall YL saying all their oils are made in the U.S. can you please elaborate??
Miles J says
As I have received a lot of questions about this, I will do a follow-up post with more detailed links, screenshots, etc.
Helen says
Thanks
Alissa says
I didn’t see a follow-up post on this. Did you ever create one? If you did, will you please provide it in a response to this original poster’s comment?
Alix says
I have been contemplating leaving the MLM essential oil business for a while. My hope is at the end of your studies you can reccomed the BEST non-MLM essential oil company. I appreciate that you won’t be bullied. It shows your strength and heart! Thank you!
Grant says
There is no such thing as the BEST essential oil company. People need to stop believing there is such a thing. You can find the best company that works for YOU though. In my journey I have come to one conclusion, that is don’t buy from just one company. Find several you like and trust and order from them. One company might have a wonderful patchouli oil but their chamomile is not to my liking. Having several trusted companies( and there are many) allows you to purchase what you like and what works for you (but someone else might have a different experiences or needs so your companies might not work for them).
Sue says
EXACTLY! What folks need to learn is what to look for in a supplier; my recommendations are Look for companies that do not claim their essential oils are “Therapeutic Grade” or “Clinical Grade” or “Pharma Grade” or “Certified Pure Therapeutic Grade” essential oils. There is no such thing as Therapeutic Grade or any of these other imaginary Grades. These are marketing claims designed to mislead consumers. All brands of essential oils potentially may be therapeutic when used safely and for the appropriate purpose.
Three other issues to be aware of when shopping for essential oils or aromatherapy products:
is the company is promoting the unsafe use of essential oils either undiluted (neat) or internally?
is the company making illegal medical claims for their essential oils or dietary supplements?
does the company market their products as Organic without the required 3rd Party Certification?
Jenny says
Miles,
I have the utmost respect for what you are doing with this issue. It would have been so easy to just sweep it under the rug and act like nothing was wrong, but I know you would not have been able to live with yourself. If it was me in the same position I would not be able to. I have built a business and trust that affects many areas of my life. Many relationships have been built on it and it has an impact on them, as you know that’s how it works in this business. Your courage hopefully will spread to others who are struggling to make the same decision, now and in the future. This can happen to anyone in any company, in any field. So thank you.
HopeK says
Well put!
Nan Brecka says
I wonder if essential oils are under any regulation by the FDA? Since they do encourage clients to consume the oils, would they not be considered a food or even drug? A lawsuit by yourself may be costly, but contacting the FDA may be worth your while, if the FDA has authority over them.
Nan Brecka says
I searched some and found that the FDA sent a warning letter to YL in 2014 concerning making medical claims. It appears they are interested in this company already and may be interested in your information as well, Miles.
Terri Lohman says
That letter was also sent to DoTerra after which they changed their advertising methods and promoted their oils as a support to the body’s ability to heal itself.
While being a DoTerra Distributor, I have been leaning toward oils purchased through a nonMLM source that gives county of origin, batch and GCMS testing on the website and Batch and country of origin on the bottle.
Dee Dee says
The company I use posts all this for anyone to see. All you need is the batch number on the bottle.
Peggy says
what company are you now using? all of this with YL is very disturbing to say the least!
Rho says
What is the company?
Stanlee Palmisano says
Hi,
The FDA has contacted just about every essential oil company in the US where they found medical claims, and ordered the company to make sure all members were in compliance.
Diana says
Peggy,
Use YL. They are great oils. Other companies are not any better. If you are concerned do not use essential oils, buy the weaker herbs. Do not use scented candles or plug-ins etc.
Jenny says
The essential oils industry as a whole is not regulated by the FDA. Letters were sent in regards to a few distributors who were making medical claims on their independent websites. Because they were affiliated with Young Living, as well as doterra, both companies were asked to take action to ensure that they and all of their distributors were being compliant. It’s serious business, make no mistake about that! doterra has been hyper vigilant about education on compliance and following through with their distributors.
Heather says
Yes the EO industry is monitored by the FDA. We cannot make medical claims or promote the oils to cure or treat disease and it’s symptoms. It’s tough to teach with our hands tied behind our backs but we are pressing forward learning and sharing in a very compliant manner. The company I purchase from has a compliance team. They monitor our social media sites and make us correct them if we make a mistake and they teach us compliant language when sharing with others.
Kate says
The FDA does not regulate the EO industry, which is good and bad in that good quality oils are available to those who do their research, bad in that if you don’t do your due diligence you can purchase oils with fillers addictive and synthetics. But the companies who on their own provide pure oils, whose purity potency & efficacy are so high and consistent that hospitals choose to work with them, who conduct testing themselves & then send each batch out to independent labs for third party testing, we can choose those companies and not be charged an arm or a leg or have to have a prescription & insurance domination to use them. So right now it’s best to do your research both on the company’s end and your own personal end, it’s so worth it and I’m grateful Big Pharma & the FDA in the pocket of Monsanto can’t rule my life in this area other than to require I don’t call EOs certain words that we use to describe medicines..(funny that kids didn’t start becoming allergic to food til we allowed the seeds to be altered in the late 80’s early 90’s& injected with chemicals so the bugs wouldn’t want them…or the fact that big companies like Walmart Coca Cola &Kraft are required to change their ingredients that are sold to us here so their products can be exported to other countries…so you see I’m not a fan of the FDAs “standards” anyway…)
So as I have researched & love the company I use, I’m excited to see the results as well:) I will not mention the company out of respect for the request not to do so. I’m so sorry about the authors experience, I’ve had friends with that company experience similar issues. So bring on the results!!
Tonya says
Will you e mail me the EO brand that you use? I started using YL a couple months ago and this is very disturbing. Thank you Tonya
tanya says
Yes I would also appreciate if you could email me the brand you use.
CuriousinLA says
Essential Oils are an unregulated industry. However, Young Living does has a selection of oils which the FDA has approved as supplements / ok for internal consumption, and are labeled as such.
mICHELLE says
THe fda didnt approve the OILS for consumption they approved the labels….they told them they had to come up with a separate line and label them for ingestion…A oil can NOT be labeled for diffusion, ingestion, and topical all on the same label!! The FDA does not approve ANY OILS…
Amt7 says
They are under regulations by the FDA. A product cannot be FDA labeled as both cosmetic and for internal use. However, the FDA has approved many of Young Living’s (and possibly some other MLM brand’s oils as well–I’m not sure?) oils as safe for internal use. They are labeled as Vitality oils, and this is a much more recent event than to what you are referring to from 2012. However, when you look at the chemical make-up of the vitality oils vs those labeled for topical or aromatic use, they are exactly the same.
Also, the FDA also regulates the claims for oils. Distributors are not to claim that oils make anyone better, or heal, if you will. Instead, they should focus on how oils help support healthy body functions and wellness.
Hope that helps!
Mendy says
It’s amazing that anyone actually trusts the FDA.
Lisa says
Do you take any medications? If yes then you DO trust the FDA
T says
If the Vitality oils are the same as the other oils, why label them differently? What changes from the Vitality oil? Is it how it is bottled, processed? I don’t understand???
mICHELLE says
The FDA didnt APPROVE THE OILS in the vitality line …It only approved the labels on the bottles….THe old way was not compliant!!!
Lucretia says
Any time a company’s response to legitimate concerns is a ‘cease and desist’ letter to the people asking the question, rather than actually addressing the concern? It says volumes about how that company actually does business.
I’m sorry for the deluge of garbage the internet is sure to bring your way. When the truth threatens peoples’ livelihoods? They tend to get mean about it.
Nicol Jolin says
Thank you for all the info! I’m a pharmacist and studied chemistry for 4 years. The science is all very important to me. I will be anxiously awaiting further posts about this. These oils are so powerful. It is vital that they are truly pure and unadulterated. I’m so surprised that an organization as big as YL is not taking this seriously. They don’t seem to have a whole lot of integrity on the issue. Like Robert Tisserand said, adulterations can happen throughout the steps of processing. But it’s how the company responds to the problem.
Lois says
It appears to me that the people running these companies are sadly lacking in education but are in it for the money
Becky says
Thank you for the information!
Alli says
Are those “import logs” actually IMPORT LOGS? Those links don’t appear to actually show YL Imports. If they do, please show us the information.
Melodie says
Thank you for being the “eyes wide open” I’m going to follow for more info as its updated. I just signed up with a “company” so this is very interesting!
Jamie says
I truly appreciate this information. My problem now remains what it has always been.. how to knwo where to go to get good EOs??? I am not fearful or hesitant about research, but I dont have the finances to buy equipment to test. And as far as research online, it becomes a he said/she said/nobody said game that I cant and dont want to waste time on, trying to decipher what is fact from opinion. I just want to there to be a source of jnformation that is independent, consistent, and honest. I just want to know. Hopefully this is the place. Thank you –
Fred Suriya says
Thank you ! Thank you so much for your search for truth… Saying that one is the only one in the world selling top quality essential oils is without doubt a lie… Here in France we have small farms producing their own essential oils, they work hard, love their land, the plants and they don’t make a fuss and the quality is outstanding. The essence is full of energy, the plant is still alive! To find a gem is not easy, to find purity require that we sincerely look for it… There are many independent small essential oils distillers in the world who produce wonderful, amazing, genuine, real top quality essential oils… Search for them, it is part of the journey 🙂 Keep posting… Peace be upon you…
Shelley says
Amen! There are indeed many! Small, independent distillers, small, independent EO companies who sell wonderful oils for reasonable prices. Some very dear Aromatherapists have their own EO companies. One only has to search, study, try, compare, and enjoy learning! There are many! and yes, the journey is worth it! 🙂
Jumpindogs says
God bless you Miles.
Tammy says
March onward! Thanks so much for your continued search for the truth!
iMolly Trask says
I applaud you for your hard work and continuing efforts to discover truth! I have used YL oils for years and really am disappointed ,sad and yes, angry, that YL has not only let so many of us down but is now at the threatening/denying stage which is a dead giveaway! I have spent the weekend trying to find other eo companies, but it is hard to know what is pure now! Thank you so much for your hard work!
NRG says
Please include me in your updates… As someone who is newer to EO’s, I can tell you that there are a world of us who do not have the knowledge you have regarding testing and results, and we applaud you for bringing us truths, accepted or not, that we can rely on to help us make stronger decisions in choosing solid companies.
JM says
I’m sorry your search for answers is being met with aggression. I imagine that this is only the beginning.
Not sure if you are aware, but here is some more 3rd party testing. http://www.learningabouteos.com/index.php/3rd-party-testing/
Jumpindogs says
Thanks for posting this link, JM. I’ve read these reports on Lea’s website and they have helped me to choose my EO sources wisely. Hopefully they will help others too.
Monica says
Good afternoon! I appreciate your quest for truth and value your stance you are taking! Good for you! This is something that needs to be proven. My question is with the testing you are sending out for other companies outside of YL, are they being sent directly from the company to the labs as you did with the original tests or through a middle man? I am a proud representative of doTERRA and stand by their integrity. Truth is important and what you are doing could effect the entire essential oil industry with the following you have in this matter. I am eager to see results. I do however want to know that the samples you are sending are going from the source to the labs to ensure quality control.
Thank you for your efforts! I am impressed with your integrity!!
karen says
Hello! She posted in her first blog post that she sent the bottle of cinnamon directly to the lab, not her own home. Just a tid bit to maybe help
Miles J - Holistic Essentials says
“She” is a “He”, which is Me 🙂
Monica says
Ok I saw that the YL sample was sent directly from the company to the lab on the first post. I wanted to clarify that all testing will be conducted in the same manner with all companies involved. Thanks again! This is interesting to follow!
Debi says
Thank you for your time and information, it’s a shame the company you cared about and promoted took a stand and decided to ignore the science. I never could bring myself to purchase YL they were too secretive and promoted ingesting. I for one appreciate the research you are doing I hope the oils I use are also tested.
Cyndy says
Thank you for taking the time to research. I am not affiliated with any essential oil company. I do have great friends who are and I do use a variety of oils. I was not really shocked when info came out regarding the not so genuine quality of the oils. ..it’s simply a shame that it did happen and that they seem to kust want to sweep it under the rug. Also they didn’t hire you …you bought into their company and geatiously sold their false product. I applaud you for testing their product and the validity of it…congratulations you win. Pat yourself on the back you did an Excellent Job!
Erin says
I am very new in the world of essential oils. Thank you for being a true advocate for us.
In reading these posts, a couple people mentioned EO and pets. Do you have information or can you point me in the direction of where I can find this info.
Jumpindogs says
Join this FB group for information on using EOs safely with pets. https://www.facebook.com/groups/1595932084001505/
Mia says
So many things wrong with how YL handled this. They have some good products but by no means are they the only ones. And they discredit their whole Seed to Seal thing with all the smoke and mirrors around their third party broker products.
If we are taking a position that all things China are bad, then I would say that it’s imperative that Country of Origin for oils is shared (as so many other companies do). That said, there is no way to know for sure that other countries have better quality control or “cleaner” standards. China vs. Indonesia? Who knows.
I do agree that there seems to be a defacto industry standard in making the chemical analysis data reports available, a standard upheld by all reputable essential oil companies. For YL, it would go a long way to removing some of the doubt instead of their constant excuses and explanations why they don’t, which only causes more skepticism.
I don’t know why YL has the practices it does: it makes no sense to me if you believe you have a good product and stand by it.
The MLM business model is something that inspires ardent belief and equal parts disgust in many. For me the argument against YL gets diluted when people conflate the MLM business model with the actual product. They really are two separate things. Sure, network marketing has some inherently tribe-y cult-y qualities which some could liken to community and brand-loyalty. I can think of many other areas of life where this is a non-issue. Some of those outside of the MLM model take an equally zealous position and find a supporting tribe and have equal brand loyalty elsewhere.
So we are all the same really. But the products are the issue and you make a compelling argument for all of us to become more educated and discerning. It’s never quite as black and white as it seems on either side and the internet makes it so much easier to follow the money and the hidden agendas.
Thanks for shining some light.
Lynn Hartin says
YL doesn’t not get broker oils from China?! Seriously your talking shows lack of knowledge. Yl owns gardens all over this planet to grow their own plants.
Bias much on YL and MLM company’s? Plz Avon, Mary Kay and a host of other company’s are MLM nothing wrong it.
You can bet if your buying oils half or less you can but from YL something in the oils is being compromised.
Deb says
Thanks for all you are doing!
Takara says
Thank you for standing up for what is right. I was trained in aromatherapy by Dr. Jane Buckle, a recognized authority in the field. The things I learned from her on how to choose good oils were all phrases and words used when someone recruited me into Young Living. Lots of things about the company never felt quite right. In particular the prices, the claim that they have superior oils, the implication that they were the only place to get good oil, and the (what I consider to be) highly irresponsible and dangerous suggestion that people use oil neat (undiluted) on the skin and ingest it internally are some of the reasons I stopped using and recommending YL oils 15+ years ago. I continue to use quality essential oils from reputable suppliers. I now avoid oil sold through network marketing.
Charlene says
Some of the work of testing various oils of various companies has already been done for you. You can see the results here:
http://www.learningabouteos.com/index.php/3rd-party-testing/
Danielle says
These tests are based on iso standards, and are not a good judge on quality. It leaves no room for variation of regions where the plant is grown. Peppermint grown in the US is going to vary slightly in constituent percentages from peppermint grown in India due to soil, climate, air, and water differences. If you use ISO standards to compare the two oils one will fail. Every time. Even though it’s a high quality pure oil, it will fail. Not a good judge for pass/fail testing
Tracie says
Thank you so much for posting this. I’m a Doterra rep, though not a very active one. I’m a rep just to get the discount for the oils my family uses. This whole situation has made me question everything I’ve been told by them as well. I’ve personally never had a bad experience with Doterra, but my faith in them has been shaken because of all these stories I’m reading about MLM oils companies in general. I don’t want to be paying 2 or 3x the amount for oils that aren’t pure. I’ll be following your story and I’m interested to see testing results from the other companies.
Jenny says
Tracie, are you a member of the Essential Oils Consumer Reports Group on Facebook? You can get a lot of the results there right now. doterra passed the test as did the other companies that were tested so far. It’s a great group! I use doterra as well and am all for testing of all company’s oils! I think it’s wonderful what Miles and this group is doing to hold the companies accountable and take them to task for irresponsible and dishonest behavior.
Michelle says
I just wanted to correct something you mentioned. Coumarin is a natural occurring substance found in cinnamon. Although your findings are interesting- I think it is needing much more research and scientific evidence before you try to prove any inadequacies.
https://en.m.wikipedia.org/wiki/Cinnamomum_cassia
Miles J - Holistic Essentials says
Hi Michelle,
Thanks for writing. The link you posted is from Wikipedia and unfortunately widely not considered valid backup. I do agree with you that there is much more research and scientific work that needs to be done. I am not implying anything about it, just pointing out it is a concern when there is so much conflicting information out there.
Regards,
Miles
Michelle says
Hi Miles,
Yes I agree wikepedia is not a reliable resource. Here is a reliable source: http://www.rxlist.com/cassia_cinnamon-page2/supplements.htm#SafetyConcerns
My point really is this: You simply listed the unwanted side effects of cinnamon use wether it be EO use or taking internally via capsule or downing a bottle of powdered cinnamon.
It is hepatoxic for people with liver problems because it is metabolized in the liver just like other medications are. It does contain HIGH concentrated levels of coumarin because EO are HIGHLY concentrated, up to 150x.
That is why it states on all YL products, please consult your doctor before taking, etc. I understand your lab reports did find synthetic material however, like I said before, it would behoove you to find a Chemist or someone who is highly trained to interpret your results.
I am a RN and I never interpret test results. It is out of my scope of practice and that is why people go to school for 8+ years to be experts at what they do.
I find your article interesting but it may not be prudent to start a fire before having the fuel to back you up. I will be following what you find, but I would like to see some more validity.
Thanks Miles and good luck.
Miles J - Holistic Essentials says
Hi Michelle,
I’m relying on experts in analytical chemistry that performed the tests. I am not interpreting any results myself as that would be out of my scope as well. The problem comes because there are people taking large amounts of cinnamon bark EO orally every day because of advice they are getting from untrained reps. That’s honestly where the concern comes in, however I did not list any side effects I just posted backup on what coumarin is. However, people can make their own decisions with the documentation you and I both provided in our links as I know you would agree that each individual is unique in their needs.
Danielle says
Cinnamon does NOT contain high levels of coumarin. Cassia contains high levels of coumarin. You are correct in that it is in cinnamon, however, it is a trace amount. The test reports shown by Miles have levels of coumarin that just wouldn’t be found in cinnamon bark naturally. The link you posted does not discuss the essential oils. It discusses the whole herb, which is different chemically. Here is a link that discusses the differences of the essential oils.http://thirtyseven.scientopia.org/2012/12/18/tis-the-season-for-cinnamon-or-is-it-cassia/
Jess Brandt says
Thank you for not backing down on this Miles! I was recently a whistleblower myself, I used the same lab in Quebec which found Ava Anderson Non-Toxic products to be completely erroneously labeled, the company has since closed it’s doors & opened under a new name. Very frustrating, and I know how it feels to have those who are brainwashed not be able to see the scientific proof in front of them for what it is. Keep up the great work, consumers deserve to know the truth.
Kate says
I understand the frustration. However, I think the difference with Ava Anderson Non-toxic is how they handled the issue. Their manufacturer was purposely leaving ingredients off the label without AANT’s knowledge. Once it became clear something was going on behind their backs, AANT put affected products on stop sell, gave refunds/exchanges for affected products, did further testing, and were very transparent about what they found. The new company now has a ton of extra protocols in place to prevent this kind of issue from happening again. Unfortunately, it happens in the industry; the important thing is how it’s handled!
Peg says
Thank you for all your efforts. I am not sure if the subscription worked or not. I’ll be checking back. So much of this is over my head and sounds like it can be exhausting to deal with. I’ve been using YLEO for two years and want to continue with oils – either thru them or someone else.
Roberta Johnston says
The email link does not work.
Jodi Stone says
Good for you and stand strong! ! The truth is always better than fiction. In your corner….
Denysse says
Is Edens garden essential oils on your list of testing? Thank you!
Peggy Bell says
I’ve been trying to get on the mentioned email list but can not get it to work. Please add me to the list to get updates about YL. I’m also a user and distributor since 2013 and haven’t gone to other cheaper oil companies because I’ve believed that YL did what they say they do!!! Grow their own products to extract the oils. I’m very disappointed in your findings and since I’ve got either the patience or intellectual know how to do this follow up I would love to be added to your list. Thank you, Peggy
Sherry Zendel says
I would appreciate any information you get with respect to the purity of the oils. Especially Thieves. I use so many products with a Thieves base I want to feel secure with them. I use the oils for my pets as well. This is very disturbing to learn. It will impact many lives.
Sue says
The fact that you are using these products around pets without a solid education in the safety of essential oils is very disturbing. A dog can smell a drop of salt in an olympic sized swimming pool…imagine how overwhelming something like EOs can be to their system – the sense of smell is how a dog navigates their world and you are basically, removing their most important sense when you overwhelm them with EOs. A cat does not contain the enzymes necessary to metabolize EOs when they reach the bloodstream via inhalation or topical use and can be fatal.
Louise says
How do we know Sherry is not using the oils correctly around her pets?
Wendy says
I’m wondering how this logic plays out with all the toxic drugs, flea treatments, mange treatments, other chemical topical applications, internal drugs and steroids, antibiotics and all other harmful applications most “veterinarians” utilize freely and in many cases in excess. I’ll take oils any day thanks lol This is just one of the highly respected veterinarians who uses essential oils for pets from small to large and exotic. Her Essential Oil Desk Reference has been invaluable for me with all of our animals over the last 6 years With only incredible results. http://www.oilyvet.com
Tiffany says
I look forward to your future posts and hope you will soon find an essential oil company you can trust. I don’t know what I’d do if I didn’t have my essential oils!!!
Bethany says
I am so sorry. Telling the truth can often come at a high cost. I admire you for standing by your integrity and not caving for potential money.
There are many of us in your corner cheering you on!
Kayla Fioravanti says
Good for you for standing your ground, seeking the truth and sharing what you discover. I can imagine the threats and attacks you are facing. I still get hate mail for speaking the truth. I will add links to your blogs to mine.
Sue says
Me too Kayla, along with cease and desist letters from attorneys and the latest threat was serious enough, I took down my whole blog! Thank YOU for always being a leader in this community of essential oil and natural cosmetics fans!
Jan says
The truth is always best!! Good luck to you in your new quest.
Sam K says
Thank you for being you. <3
Janet Blanshine says
Thank you for this information I am exploring the world of essential oils and want all the good and correct info i can get.
Jonell says
I shared your post on my facebook page. And right away a person on my friends list who is a YL distributor jumped in and said that this is not from a YL distributor, it’s from another oils company.
Miles J - Holistic Essentials says
It’s a shame they don’t read. The termination letter I received from conduct would certainly indicate I am/was a member. Some people choose to believe their own truth and only time will cause otherwise. Keep your head up 🙂
Sue says
Since you are now “free” from the cult and the cult mindset, and clearly have a passion for the holistic approach – I hope you consider taking a legitimate course in aromatherapy or herbal studies. There, you will learn how to select essential oils which are both safe and appropriate for the situation as well as learn how to choose reliable companies to purchase from. My personal advice – look for companies which are Certified Organic and which have a selection of Certified Organic essential oils available. Not every EO is available “as” Certified Organic because some countries where raw materials are harvested do not have certifiers in place or there is simply not enough quantity available for the consumer market – but there are good, ethical, long standing brands out there to choose from. This can be a wonderful new beginning for you!
Miles J - Holistic Essentials says
Hi Sue,
Thanks for writing in! I’m actually in the middle of an aromatherapy certification course that I started before all of this happened anyway. The world works in mysterious ways and I will remain open to wherever my path takes me 🙂
Regards,
Miles
Sue says
One of the things I would like to try to understand, and I know others share my curiosity, what information finally opened your eyes? Was it the need to send the product for testing yourself? Because people have been writing about and exposing this company for “what it is” since the 90’s. Chemists and experts in essential oils have said for YEARS that some of their oils are adulterated, that the “story” of the source of their oils was impossible, and yet their professional opinions were dismissed or ignored or disbelieved.
I ask, because obviously we can’t all buy and test every retail bottle of oils we buy – that would be both unrealistic and impractical.
So what can be done so that others like yourself, who have been presented with decades of solid proof, have their own reality moment without having to personally test every product?
Because you are not saying anything new to the essential oil community even though this new reality may be new to you…there are tests, testimony under oath, and opinions of those with decades of experience who have been saying what you are saying since the 90’s.
That is the hardest part for me to understand, the fact that anyone could even remotely trust this company to begin with, much less be even slightly surprised when this sort of proof comes to light – once again.
Cynthia says
Miles thank you for being a whistle blower. I started with Young Living 2.5 years ago and the Seed to Seal was the deciding factor in my decision.
However, I’ve been active in the holistic health and sustainability communities for 20 years and never felt comfortable with the push to consume and/or use so liberally as YLEO marketed.
I completed my clinical aromatherapy certification last year through Aromahead Institute and there are wonderful trustworthy essential oil suppliers out there who provide GC/MS testing on their website, as well as country of origin and distillation date. I’m sure whichever program you’re going through can help you find such a supplier. If not, let me know and I’ll send you the names of the ones I work with.
stacie fleenor says
Sue, can you please share some of the names of legitimate courses to take in aromatherapy? Thanks!
Sue says
TIPS FOR SHOPPING AROMATHERAPY EDUCATION
Look for Industry Accreditation – Is the school/teacher a Member in Good Standing of any professional trade associations like NAHA, AIA, IFA, IFPA, IAAMA, (Australia), CFA (Canada)? Are any courses approved for Continuing Education Units?
Research Teachers Credentials – Where did the teachers study? What are their actual credentials? Can these credentials be verified? How long have they been teaching?
Unbiased Affiliations – Many schools have favorite essential oil suppliers, but does this school require that students purchase essential oils from them or from any specific supplier?
What is the Primary Focus of the Curriculum – Does the curriculum follow the Educational Requirements of NAHA or the AIA, for either Level I or Level II? Is the focus on the practice of massage and incorporating aromatherapy into a massage practice? Is the course geared toward licensed health care practitioners like RNs, NDs, DOs, or MDs? Is the course primarily preparation for the manufacturing of products such as skincare, candles or perfume?
Watch for Red Flags! – The history of essential oils is not ambiguous; essential oils were not used by the Egyptians in 2000 BC, for example. Nor were essential oils mentioned in the bible. Aromatic plants existed, other types of aromatic extracts existed, but essential oils themselves were not used by ancient cultures. If a school can’t get basic history correct – what other more important things might they also get wrong!
Qualifications upon Graduation – Is there a test required to receive a diploma or certificate of graduation, or do all students receive a certificate of attendance? How many contact hours does the course include and will graduates be properly prepared to sit for the exam to be eligible to apply as a “Registered Aromatherapist™ (RA™), as regulated by the Aromatherapy Registration Council: http://aromatherapycouncil.org/
Disclosures – Does the course explain in advance, the conditions under which any certification is given by the School? It is important to recognize that the practice of Aromatherapy is unlicensed, no certificates allow someone to practice as an Aromatherapist. All practices are under authority of the state, either within the particular discipline of the individual practitioner or as may be allowed under an individual Safe Harbor and/or Health Freedom Law.
Karen Murphy says
Thank you, for taking your time in sending essential oils from various companies to be tested. People need to know what they are are putting into their bodies.
Terry says
Thank you Miles. For being diligent, detailed, and maintaining an attitude of honesty, integrity, and ethical behavior. I have not seen anything but professional language & behavior from you. Which always indicates operating from a good place, of strength, and ‘doing things the right way.’
I am sorry you’ve had to deal with attacks, but that usually indicates the attackers are not in that place. I’m not a YL user, but like you, EO have changed my life, and I appreciate what you are doing for us, the consumer.
Thank you again, for all your efforts.
Renee says
Thank you for sharing your research.
jamie says
All of the document links are giving me a 404 error. I’m so sad that you are going through this, however I’m very glad that you’re spreading the truth, regardless of how inconvenient the truth is right now!
Amy says
Hi. I had the same issue when I was mobile. Try from a computer or change what program you open them with!
Deb says
Thank you for this info. I’m sorry you ran into such combative, and obviously an uninterested company! The one who carries the torch will be burned the most; more people need to be aware of what they use in their lives.
Cudos to you for this information!
Karen says
Thank you for what you are doing. Keep going and I look forward to the information.
Denese says
Kudos to you for your truth! Greed is rampant, if not for the truth seekers of the world we would be without the knowledge to keep ourselves and loved ones as safe as possible! From one truth seeker to another…..I say Namaste!
Denise says
I look forward to your findings.
Dot Olsen says
I am so sorry for all that you have gone through in your search for truth, but in all honesty, in the end, your trials will have been worth it and your example of willingness to pay the price stands as an example to others who in this day and age have very few examples of integrity as role models. All the best to you!
Laura Macklem says
Good for you! I will say be careful. They are known to use at the federal level and are very nasty when it comes to protecting themselves from anything that can cause them loss of money including trying to stop people who are not members from selling their oils, using similar fonts on labels and other things.I am in no way affiliated with YL but have experienced their wrath, some of it due to the samethings you are swimming against. Good luck and God bless you!
Jackie says
I can only imagine the comments you are receiving from YL members. I just want you to know that most of us in the aromatherapy community SUPPORT you in your quest for the truth! It’s heart breaking the way they have treated you, but kudos to you for being honest with yourself and your customers. And kudos to you for not blindly trusting anyone who won’t give you evidence to back up their claims.
Melissa says
Wow, they are bullies based on that letter you sent. That would end the partnership right there. They didn’t even have the guts to put a name on it or sign it. I’m also signed up as a member with them, but I despise bullies.
Renee says
Thank you for the work you are doing. I use another lines oils and appreciate that you are testing others without bias. I do not use them for a business and don’t use the oils enough but would like to know that what I am using is pure as “advertised”. I am sorry that YL has opted to treat you this way and feel like they should have responded by addressing the issue rather and owning up to the problem even if it is the fault of one of their providers.
Anna Bankey says
Good for you! I shared this aricle and a fellow MT vimmented that YL will now go after me and discredit me because i shared your article! Unbelievsbke!
Lana says
I appreciate your candor. Thank you for sharing. It’s absolutely necessary to have full confidence in leadership and management doing whatever is required to ensure the products are what they say they are. Those of us who appreciate the beauty of essential oils so much that we desire to make it a business, and do the marketing for a company (and I’m not with YL) are reliant on leadership to hold up their end of the deal while we do ours. Integrity of product and leadership is essential. I will be looking forward to updates. In the long run, I hope the outcome causes an improvement in the entire industry.
Sunny says
I just want to say thank you. Thank you for standing up for truth and transparency. Thank you for hedging a way of greater awareness for everyone involved and for refusing to back down for anything that is not done in good integrity.
I am sorry that Young Living has responded the way they have…Truly this is a pivotal moment for their business and will set the tone for many years to come.
Unfortunately it seems that tone is not one you, I or many will want to participate in.
Again, I appreciate all you have done.
Sincerely,
Sunny
Ash says
BRAVO to you for standing up for transparency. The truth will always out, and though you may be besieged by the fearful for now, take heart and know there are others of us out there who advocate for truly pure essential oils and support you.
I will be interested to hear about the testing results of the various other oils. Keep going, and keep letting us know how we can support you!
Kristen says
Thank you for your efforts
Tina Warren says
Thank you for not only questioning but using good science to do it. I subscribed and will be eagerly awaiting the results.
Gerrie says
Thank you so much for your concerns can actions. I look forward to more information.
Mommy Dearest says
You, my friend, have a lawsuit on your hands. You have more than enough evidence to put forth a class action lawsuit with you as the lead plaintiff. There are plenty of us distributors who are clearly frustrated with this whole thing who will back you up. I have documentation as well, but it appears you have much more. I hope this is something you’ll consider, or someone, as YL won’t reconsider its stance, given the horrible history of the founder with the law.
Louise says
I agree
Helen says
I am so sorry this has happened. You are correct, it is heart breaking when any place we put our trust in breaks that trust. I would feel the same way if this had happen within my company. I think most people would.
Colleen K. Dodt says
Thank you for giving light to something I always knew just on my intuition . CKD???
Wendy Stewart says
I’m honored to read your statements, based on your desire for truth and honesty in business. Your (and others in EO business) reputation are on the line when representing a provider, so trust and comfort in necessary. Thank you for your search for truth!
Charlotte Bloodworth says
So glad for your efforts to find the truth.
Nancy Lubin says
Thanks for maintaining as balanced a perspective as is possible.
Kristin says
Is there any way to know which oils are coming from China and which are not?
Melody DeLury says
Thank You
“The good thing about science is that it’s true whether or not you believe in it.”
― Neil deGrasse Tyson
Debbie says
Thanks.
Jenny says
I just wanted to say thank you for seeking answers and standing up to those who would like for this all to just go away. Trust for many was broken with this. I cannot imagine what you and others have gone through when that trust shattered.
Jackie Edwards says
Thank you for stepping up to the plate on this issue. I had been looking to become a YL distributor, but I think I’ll pass now. My first concerns were of Mr. Young’s character, after reading much about his past. Now, this issue once again causes me to question his character. What s shame.
Shannon Becker says
Thanks for updating and expanding this investigation.
Michelle Markham says
Thank you for everything. This takes a lot of effort and bravery.
Judy Shappee says
I always felt that Young Living oils were overhyped. No need to buy expensive oils sold through multi-level marketing to get high quality. There are other companies that do publish their lab results. You can buy direct from them and pay less for oils that are as good or better than YL. That said, it’s a good idea for consumers to demand accountability for claims of quality, and perhaps do random testing themselves. Thanks for bringing this to our attention.
Syrita says
Thank you for enlightening all of us and demanding quality and product that is paid for.
Linda says
Thank you for doing this research I am a very healthy 59 year old with perfect health record until last week admitted to hospital with perforated bowel and extreme abdominal pain, fever Ct scan showing the diagnosis I had been I taking essential oil supplements 2 weeks prior to this illness so I am very interested in your test results The company I use is CPTG Lets see!
Maria Ehret says
Tried to subscribe but it’s not going through. Can you please add me to your update list? Thank you.
Lisa says
Very disappointing
Y L Distributor says
subscribe link seems to not be working
Laura Arnold says
Interested in outcome of future testing
M Morrison says
I use EOs and am very interested in the test results for YL and Doterra.
Thanks.