The FDA and Aromatherapy

One of the pluses Americans have is certain regulations by the FDA (Food and Drug Association) and CFSAN to protect consumers from not only dangerous chemicals but the ability to make a decision about use based on the ingredients label, something extremely important for anyone with allergies or chemical sensitivities. Before the creation of the FDA, companies were free to use not only whatever ingredients they pleased but also complete anonymity of formulations. Such circumstances still go on in many countries, which do not have an equivalent of the FDA. Since many essential oils are created in other countries not located in North America, it leaves one to wonder if laws are being followed to protect you. Denatured essential oils can pose a real risk to consumers as the quick absorption of the oil can bring with it potentially dangerous additives. Hence, why organic- and Aromatherapy-grade essential oils may provide a safer product.

The US FDA, however, is unable many times to catch adulterated products, thus once again leaving Americans to fend for themselves. Added to this are many bootleg products, which neglect to follow the FDA's long standing rule of a complete and truthful ingredients label being present on the product. If you find an oil product without a label, don't be tempted to buy it. Such products are many times sold at street fairs and other cultural gatherings for $2 to $5.

The FDA has little to do with essential oils in general. Since essential oils are considered a type of fragrance or cosmetic, the FDA has not chosen to do drug type regulations. Such regulations are not likely to happen in the future unless a great number of people become ill or suffer ill effects from a particular essential oil. As the FDA notes, essential oils will be determined for regulation on a "case by case" level. Since a number of essential oils have been widely touted for health benefits, including Lavender and Tea Tree, it is the FDA who would have to take their use seriously enough to begin any type of regulation. Laws on adulteration and labeling still stand in the US and may help to prevent the problems associated with poor quality essential oils.

-MAM

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