Essential Oils Generally Recognized as Safe (GRAS)

Safe for consumption application code for essential oil use

Many of dōTERRA‘s oils are safe for ingestion.  In fact, all essential oils that are identified by the FDA as Safe For Consumption (that is: Generally Recognized as Safe or GRAS) can be taken as a dietary supplement, to promote physical well-being.

Some oils (e.g.: lemon, grapefruit, wild orange,etc.) are even more effective when taken orally.

Things to remember when using essential oils as dietary supplements:

  • Remember to dilute the oils in oil-soluble liquids, such as a vegetable oil, olive oil, rice or hemp milk, or whole, raw milk prior to ingestion.  More or less dilution may be required, depending on how strong the oil is.  Usually, no more than 2-3 drops should be ingested at one time, during any 4-8 hour period.  It is better to start with one drop.  Oils may also be put into capsules for ingestion.
  • Essential oils should not be given as dietary supplements to children under 6 years of age.  Parents should exercise caution before administering essential oils orally to a child, and oils should always be diluted prior to ingestion for children.
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Please note: dōTERRA‘s oils are certified pure therapeutic-grade®, making them very safe.  Most other essential oils on the market today are not produced to such high standards, and some may pose serious risks, if taken internally.

The information here was developed specifically for dōTERRA‘s oils.  However, sensitivity is highly individualized, so you need to test the oils first, to see how you will respond to them.  Also, there are special circumstances under which more care should be given to the use of the oils.  If you are pregnant, nursing, or under a doctor’s care, consult your physician.  Avoid contact with eyes, inner ears and sensitive areas.

Essential oils for which dilution is generally not required for topical application

The following oils can be used topically without dilution, in most instances.  If your skin is very sensitive, dilution is still recommended.  They are generally regarded as safe for use on children over 6 years of age.

You will still want to dilute these oils for ingestion.

Essential oils for which dilution is recommended for topical and internal use

For the following essential oils, dilution is recommended for both topical and internal use.  Always dilute before using on sensitive areas — such as the face, neck, etc. — and before ingestion.

Keep out of reach of children.

Essential oils for which dilution is always required

Always dilute these oil before applying topically or taking internally.  Keep out of reach of children.