Young Living is committed to ensuring the highest quality and purity in every essential oil produced. With a strong foundation in scientific research and rigorous testing, it goes beyond industry standards to deliver oils that not only meet, but exceed expectations. As part of Young Living's ongoing commitment to excellence, many people have asked about its lab testing practices, and we want to provide clear, transparent answers. In this article, we’ll dive into how Young Living ensures that every essential oil is pure, therapeutic-grade, and safe—backed by independent lab testing and a deep dedication to its Seed to Seal® standards.
Does Young Living conduct independent lab testing on essential oils?
Young Living has a long track record of using qualified, independent labs to perform testing for various reasons. When a new oil is introduced, Young Living’s scientists research and test it to ensure it’s distilled properly and that the molecular structure is balanced according to the specific cultivar selected. If necessary, the oil may be sent to another lab to confirm the results. It’s worth noting that very few labs in North America have the expertise to interpret results according to the strict Seed to Seal standards set by Young Living.
While the Young Living Lab is equipped to meet these standards, they still send products out for further testing to avoid any potential conflicts of interest or compromise. The results are kept in a secure area where ongoing testing batches are stored.
The Seed to Seal Standard
The Young Living standard goes beyond testing— it starts in the fields. The land is carefully stewarded to ensure the soil nutrients align with the needs of the plants. These plants are selected not for their fragrance but for their ability to provide the necessary nutrients that will positively impact the health of both animals and humans.
Before harvest, a brix test is conducted to measure the essential oil content in the plant. The timing of the harvest is crucial and must be done during specific hours of the day based on test results. After harvesting, the plant material is taken to a distillery, where it’s carefully processed, with the temperature and timing strictly monitored to extract the essential oils.
Five Grades of Essential Oils
It’s important to know that there are five types of essential oils produced today:
Synthetic Biology Oil – Created through a bioengineering process involving synthetic DNA and fermentation by yeast, fungi, and enzymes, often with added fragrances to enhance cheaper oils.
Synthetic or Nature-Identical Oils – Made in a lab using petrochemicals.
Extended Oils – Often contain added petrochemicals or altered oils, usually sold for fragrance purposes.
Natural or Certified Oils – Oils that may pass basic testing but might not contain high therapeutic value. These oils could have been distilled at improper temperatures and/or in aluminum vats.
Therapeutic-Grade Essential Oils – Pure, organic, distilled oils that contain all the medicinal compounds, sourced from non-GMO plants.
Young Living’s Testing Process
At Young Living farms, scientific equipment is used for primary testing to ensure that the oils meet the required qualities before being sent to the Young Living Labs for final testing and bottling. If the oils do not meet the Seed to Seal standards—whether due to adverse weather or other factors—they are not used, even if they come from our own farms.
Why Essential Oils Matter
Essential oils are called "essential" because they are vital to plants, and they are just as important for humans. Essential oils are present in vegetables, grains, and fruits, and are released based on how they are prepared for consumption. Young Living essential oils are highly concentrated and can be used in a variety of ways, including in diffusers, food and beverages, supplements, and skincare products. These oils support overall health in countless ways.
Unfortunately, synthetic oils, which are chemically created to mimic the therapeutic properties of real oils, have become widespread in the market. However, Young Living remains dedicated to producing pure, therapeutic-grade oils.
Young Living’s Research and Resources
Young Living has the most extensive library on essential oils in the world. All records of plant research, distillation techniques, temperatures, and more are meticulously documented and stored for reference. Members can dive deeper into the journey of essential oils by attending Young Living’s yearly conferences or Zoom meetings. Research papers presented to botanical and medical journals are also available on the Young Living website.
Young Living's commitment to quality is unwavering, and it takes great pride in providing its members with the purest, most effective essential oils available. Through rigorous testing, scientific research, and the Seed to Seal® promise, it ensures that every drop meets the highest standards of purity and potency. Young Living believes in full transparency and are always here to answer your questions about how the oils are sourced, tested, and delivered. As Young Living continues to lead the way in essential oil excellence, you can trust that when you choose Young Living, you’re choosing products that support your health and well-being with integrity, science, and care. Thank you for being part of the Young Living family!
Reference:
Essential Oils Desk Reference
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