LET'S TALK ESSENTIAL OILS

If you are reading this, chances are you might be considering essential oils or low-tox living, but with so many options where do you start? If you are anything like me, you might still be wondering if it's really worth all that money to purchase a starter kit. Let me share my story...

In October 2019, I was first introduced to Young Living. Being 8 months pregnant, I knew that I wanted to get involved, but my budget was just too tight with a baby on the way. I was also torn between starter kits - getting Feather the Owl for baby or getting the Premium Starter Bundle, which had so much more to offer at the time. After getting Feather the Owl as a baby shower gift and experiencing the quality of the oils first hand, I knew it was definitely worth saving up and enrolling. But life happened and budgets got tighter after baby and I eventually only enrolled in June 2021.

Young Living have since closed their South African offices, but you can still become a brand partner and purchase their products from the US at special South African rates.

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So... let's talk essential oils.

Essential oils work because they are highly concentrated plant extracts containing powerful natural compounds that interact quickly with the body. When inhaled, their tiny aromatic molecules travel through the nose and directly stimulate the limbic system in the brain (the area linked to emotions, memory, and mood) often producing noticeable effects within seconds to minutes. When applied topically (properly diluted), they can also be absorbed through the skin and enter the bloodstream, supporting various physical responses. What makes them especially effective is their potency: it can take large amounts of plant material to produce a small bottle of essential oil, meaning just a drop or two delivers a high concentration of active constituents. This combination of rapid absorption and strong plant chemistry is why essential oils can work so quickly and efficiently in everyday wellness routines.

Using essential oils in a low-tox household can be a simple, natural way to reduce your family’s exposure to harsh chemicals while still maintaining a clean and comforting home environment. Many essential oils, like lavender, tea tree and lemon, have properties that support cleaning, relaxation and overall wellness, making them versatile alternatives to conventional products. For example, they can be used in DIY cleaners, diffused to create a calming atmosphere, or added to laundry for a fresh scent without synthetic fragrances.

Beyond practicality, incorporating essential oils can also create mindful daily routines, whether it’s winding down with a soothing bedtime blend or refreshing the home naturally during the day. For moms aiming to create a safer, more intentional space, essential oils offer a balance of effectiveness and peace of mind.

I’ve been amazed by these tiny little bottles of “magic” time and time again. From soothing the effects of terrible colds to calming migraines and supporting the healing of skin conditions like ringworm and rashes, often without needing topical steroid creams. They’ve become a go-to in my home. There have even been moments where I turned to over-the-counter options first, struggled to find relief and only later reached for my oils, wishing I had done so sooner.

Which brings me to cost. Not all essential oils are created equal, and quality truly matters, especially for topical use. Only a handful of brands offer oils that are 100% pure or very close to it. Many drugstore options are diluted with fillers or synthetic ingredients to make them more affordable, which can compromise their effectiveness and defeat the purpose of choosing a low-tox alternative. The truth is that high-quality essential oils can be expensive, particularly those derived from delicate or resource-intensive plants. Oils like frankincense and helichrysum often come with a higher price tag, but when you consider their wide range of benefits and how many conventional products they can replace, they are often worth every cent.

I will always remain loyal to Young Living for as long as I can get their products in South Africa, because they offer incredible blends and each oil comes with their “Seed to Seal” promise of purity. They do require a membership, but the enrollment process is simple and can be done by purchasing a single product. Another well-known brand is doTERRA, which tends to be more on the expensive side and usually requires purchasing an enrollment kit or ordering through a wellness advocate. There are also more affordable options available locally, including SOil and Amala, which are proudly produced right here in South Africa and offer accessible alternatives for those starting their essential oil journey.

Still not sure? Looking for an essential oil tailored to your needs? Reach out to me and I'll help you start your own wellness journey. The possibilities really are endless!

Contact Me