Are doTERRA Essential Oils toxic to liver function? If the essential oils come from a company which adds synthetic compounds to their oils, then yes, this would be true.
However, if the essential oils come from a company like doTERRA, that doesn’t add anything to their oils, then no. This is not true, as long as the oils are used in moderation. Even drinking too much water can be toxic to your system, but it’s good in moderate amounts.
Are Essential Oils Bad for your Liver Function? Are There Exceptions?
Certain oils metabolize more slowly in the liver. However, this does not mean they are toxic. These simply take longer to break down in the liver than others and should be used intermittently. These oils include:
- Eugenol is the active ingredient in (Clove – considered THE most potent antioxidant essential oil)
- Cinnamaldehyde (Cassia and Cinnamon *)
- Carvacrol (Oregano and Thyme – considered two of the most potent antioxidant oils)
What about the above oils in a blend like OnGuard or DDR Prime?
- Chemistry changes dramatically when you combine with other oils
- The constituents function differently – not the same effect in a blend
- Blends contain reduced amounts of the above oils
So, the toxicity isn’t the issue. It’s a matter of using too much too often so the body can’t break down the oils as rapidly. So, use less oils. So, instead of taking 8 drops of oregano once a day, it’s much better to use 1 drop every two hours since it takes 30-120 minutes to break down the oils.
Note – these are my notes from the doTERRA 2014 Convention from a presentation done by Laura Jacobs.Here are other doTERRA posts you may also like:
Is doTERRA Safe to Eat, Put on My Skin or Put on My Child?
doTERRA Essential Oils for Pregnancy Can Help
Is It Safe to Ingest doTERRA Essential Oils Internally?
Can Essential Oils Cause Skin Rash?
I have been using Doterra oils for over 5 years, I take 5 drops of Lemon Grass and 5 drops of Cassia in a capsule at night before I go to bed. It has helped my blood pressure and fat levels in my blood. I was taking Statins and the effects on me were frightening, the oils really made a difference. So now I have been hearing that what I am doing is going to damage my liver and kidneys, what is your thoughts on this. I have been told by several doterra reps it’s ok. This product has made such a difference in my life.
I would actually contact doTERRA directly to ask a question like this. Cassia is one of the oils I’ve heard not to take every day long term because it is so strong and hard on your liver. I also personally would never take 5 drops of any oil at a time. It’s always better to take 2 drops twice a day. It will be more effective and easier on your liver.