Food grade essential oils – what does it mean and how to find out which essential oils are safe to ingest? We compiled the list of best food-grade essential oils, with hints to the correct usage, as well as actual customers reviews.
We are used to the fact that essential oils are mostly associated with aromatherapy or cosmetic uses. However, many essential oils are edible provided they meet the requirements of being safe to take internally. Oregano essential oil, lemon essential oil, fennel oil, and black pepper oil are among the best food-grade essential oils that have powerful healing effect.
Best food grade essential oils – how to select them
Many of essential oil products are produced only for use as aromatherapy products. They are highly concentrated and swallowing them can cause severe health problems, such as burns, blisters, and lesions in your mouth, esophagus, stomach lining, and more.
Therefore, if it is not clearly stated by the producer, that essential oil is suitable for internal use, do not consume it!
There are several things to look for when selecting an oil based product and specifically best food grade essential oils:
Make sure that essential oil is suitable for internal use
Make sure that essential oil is suitable for internal useBe sureto choose pure and natural essentials oils with very clear indications on the label. If the word “edible” is not indicated on the bottle, avoid using it in the kitchen or contact the brand directly to ask the question. These statements on the label indicate that essential oil is safe for internal use: “food grade”, “edible”, “safe to ingest” or “suitable for internal use”.
Don’t be confused by “therapeutic grade essential oil” labeling
You will probably see many brands labeling their essential oils as “therapeutic grade”. Do they belong to the list of best food-grade essential oils? What is the difference between food grade and therapeutic grade essential oils? Can you actually consume therapeutic grade essential oils?
The short answer – better not. The thing is that there is no official essential oil grading system. A manufacturer can call their oil “therapeutic grade” or “A-grade” or “certified”, but this will only mean that essential oil is graded under the producer´s internal grading system. Again, there is no regulation on these terms and “therapeutic grade” or “certified” does not mean that it is FDAapproved or certified for purity by a government agency.
So, just to be on the safe side, if the producer did clearly label its product with “food grade”, “edible”, “safe to ingest” or “suitable for internal use”, do not eat it. A combination of “therapeutic grade” and “suitable for internal use” labels are a perfect indicator that oil is safe to ingest.
Pay attention to the production method of essential oil
For food grade products it is extremely important, where raw materials were sourced from and how essential oil was extracted.
Look for organic, pure and undiluted essentials oils. Avoid brands that use petroleum solvents to make their product. Best food grade essential oils would be paraben-free with no additives, fillers, bases or carriers added.
Don´t trust low prices – pure food grade essential oils cannot be cheap
Unfortunately, it is often the case when producers dilute their oil with a cheap carrier oil or even other potentially dangerous chemicals. A label can state, that the bottle contains 100% of essential oil, however, it’s usually only 1/3 of the natural oil and 2/3 carrier oil. Always beware of large size bottles and unrealistically low prices. Best food grade essential oils cannot be very cheap due to the fact that producer needs to press several kilograms of raw material in order to produce 1 gram of essential oil.
Now without further a due, let’s jump to the list of best food-grade essential oils that are safe to consume.
Best food grade essential oils and their uses
Food grade essential lemon oil
Do you want a refreshing taste of lemon without the need to squeeze the fruit? Add 1-2 drops of food-grade essential lemon oil to an ice tea or smoothie. Recently I tried this detox smoothie with bentonite clay and food grade essential oils, and I was blown away by its taste.
You can also use food-grade essential lemon oil to water a fish. If you are like me and can not stand the smell of raw fish, essential lemon oil can really help. Add 1 drop of essential lemon oil to a water bowl and put fish into this mixture for half an hour. The procedure will completely eliminate the unpleasant smell of the product. After thirty minutes wash the fish with water and cook as usual.
Zongle USDA Certified Organic Lemon Essential Oil
This food-grade essential lemon oil from Zongle is produced naturally from raw materials of Italian origin. Zongle oils are produced without using pesticides, synthetic fertilizers, sewage sludge, irradiation, or genetic engineering. It is labeled as “safe for ingestion”. Tested for microbes, heavy metals, and herbicides.
QUALITY: GMO-Free, free of preservatives, Artificial-Ingredients-Free, Paraben-Free, Pesticide-Free, Gluten-Free, Vegan, Cruelty-Free, Edible, Kid-Safe (when diluted)
CONSUMER REVIEWS: 1) Awesome to amp up hot drinks (coffee and tea). 2) Great to be added to drinking water, and it can be used to flavor food. 3) Great for baking and lemon-flavored desserts. 4) Works perfectly in a moisturizing mixture for nails and cuticles.
Food-grade black pepper essential oil
Black pepper essential oil (Piper nigrum) stimulates appetite, eliminates the feeling of heaviness in the stomach, activates metabolism and facilitates digestion.
Black pepper oil helps people with excessive gas formation as it inhibits bacteria that cause the excessive formation of gas.
To improve your digestion and lower cholesterol levels, ingest 2 drops of black pepper essential oil daily. You can add 2 drops of black pepper essential oil to your warm food (soup, stew or alike) or add them to your morning smoothie.
Artizen Black Pepper Essential Oil
Essential oils from Artizen are of high quality and purity. This black pepper essential oil is no exception. It is steam distilled from the fruit seed of the black pepper plant. Black pepper Essential oil is routinely tested for purity and other unique qualities.
QUALITY: Food grade, GMO-Free, Artificial-Ingredients-Free, Paraben-Free, Pesticide-Free, Gluten-Free, Vegan.
CONSUMER REVIEWS: 1) Great to be ingested together with turmeric powder or supplements, to increase absorption of turmeric. 2) Works to relieve muscle pain and soreness, tames arthritis pain. 3) Great for cooking, especially for meat dishes, soups, and ramen. 4) Used as a diuretic to increases urination and remove toxins from the body.
Food-grade fennel essential oil
The fennel essential oil works as an efficient detoxifier, it has diuretic properties, it improves metabolism and promotes better digestion. These qualities of fennel oil contribute to faster weight loss, making it one of the best food-grade essential oils found on the market.
The detoxification process also purifies the bloodstream and cleanses the kidneys along with vital organs. You can use fennel oil by simply adding 1-2 drops in a glass of water. Drink this mixture before meals to help digestion and stop overeating.
BioFinest Fennel Oil – 100% Pure Fennel Essential Oil
This fennel essential oil is distilled from the seeds of organic sweet fennel, this oil is fresh, clean, and slightly spicy with notes of earth and anise. Biofinest organic products are manufactured naturally. No chemicals, no synthetics, no additives, animal cruelty-free. Fennel oil is rich in such vitamins as A, C, and E, therefore works great for skin disorders like acne, rashes, eczema, wrinkles, psoriasis, dermatitis, sores, burns, insect bites, stretch marks.
QUALITY: 100% Pure, no additives, unfiltered, undiluted, with no fillers. Vegan certified, paraben-free, cruelty-free. Edible.
CONSUMER REVIEWS: 1) Really helps to suppress appetite. 2) It helpsto eliminate diarrhea. 3) 1 drop added to toothbrush helps to fight sweet tooth cravings and strengthen gums. 4) It helps with low milk supply.
Food-grade oregano essential oil
Oregano is truly a female plant. Taking oregano oil helps to normalize the menstrual cycle, to restore blood circulation in the small pelvis and in the uterus. Oregano essential oil, as well as evening primrose oil, is recommended during menopause. It can help to cope with mood swings, increased sweating, hot flashes and other symptoms of the hormonal “explosion”.
Zongle USDA Certified Organic Oregano Essential Oil
This food-grade essential oil of oregano from Zongle is produced ethically and bottled in the USA. Oregano essential oil is a rich source of defense against viruses, bacteria, fungi, and parasites. It is labeled as “safe for ingestion”. Tested for microbes, heavy metals, and herbicides.
QUALITY: GMO-free, preservative-free, Artificial-Ingredients-Free, Paraben-Free, Pesticide-Free, Gluten-Free, Vegan, Cruelty-Free, Edible.
CONSUMER REVIEWS: 1) Works really good for colds and sore throat. 2) Perfect to be used in salad dressing. 3) Great for baking and lemon-flavored desserts. 4) Works perfectly in a moisturizing mixture for nails and cuticles.
Where to buy the best food-grade essential oils?
You can buy food grade essential oils from any place where essential oils are sold, as well as major stores and online.
Amazon has a really good selection of food-grade essential oils. Check out Amazon for
Food-grade essential grapefruit oil –Voov Grapefruit Essential Oil
Food-grade essential clove leaf oil – SVA Organics Natural clove essential oil
Disclaimer:The contents of this website are for informational purposes only and do not constitute medical advice; the content is not intended to be a substitute for professional medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment. Always seek the advice of a physician or other qualified health provider with any questions you may have regarding a medical condition.
FAQs
Can you ingest food grade essential oils? ›
“Food grade” essential oils aren't tested, approved or certified for internal use by the government. The jury's still out on just how safe or effective they are to ingest. You have to be very careful how you use them if you choose to do so.
Can you ingest 100% essential oils? ›Essential oils are not safe to consume and can cause significant poisoning even if small amounts are ingested.
Are essential oils safe internally? ›The answer is YES. Essential oils come from natural compounds found in nature like plants and fruits, so they provide a safe, natural way to experience internal benefits for the body.
Which essential oils are food grade? ›“There are some essential oils that are generally accepted as safe additives for cooking when used in extremely small amounts, as small as one drop. They include spearmint oil, grapefruit oil, peppermint oil, lemon oil, cinnamon bark oil and lemongrass oil.
Can you put essential oils in water and drink it? ›Using essential oils for better health is common these days, but did you know that some people swear by adding essential oils to their water? It's true… some oils can be added to water (and food, too). Adding a drop or two of an essential oil to your water can enhance the flavor—and make staying hydrated tastier.
Can I ingest frankincense oil? ›Nobody should ever ingest an essential oil, but people can swallow frankincense extract. It is important to follow the manufacturer's guidelines on dosage. Interactions with other drugs or side effects are much more common when the extract is taken by mouth.
Can I ingest peppermint essential oil? ›Peppermint oil appears to be safe when taken orally (by mouth) or applied topically in the doses commonly used. Peppermint oil has been safely used in many clinical trials. Possible side effects of peppermint oil taken orally include heartburn, nausea, abdominal pain, and dry mouth.
Can you ingest cinnamon essential oil? ›You also shouldn't ingest full-strength cinnamon oil or pour it into capsules meant for oral use. Cinnamon oil can burn mucus membranes and the lining of the esophagus. Avoid rubbing full-strength cinnamon oil on the gums or getting it into your eyes too. Some people are allergic to cinnamon.
How many drops of essential oil can you ingest in a day? ›Therapeutic Doses (Up to 5-6 drops per application)
When ingesting essential oils is necessitated for therapeutic purposes, much more than a culinary dose needed. “Therapeutic” amounts require up to 5-6 drops of essential oil per dose. To do this safely, taking them in a gel capsule is the preferred method.
Lavender oil is generally not poisonous in adults when breathed in during aromatherapy or swallowed in smaller amounts. It may cause a reaction in children who swallow small amounts. The major effects are due to allergic reactions of the skin.
Can you drink lemon essential oil in water? ›
Add Lemon essential oil to your water for a refreshing taste or as an alternative to sodas and sugary drinks. When taken internally, this esential oil can also naturally cleanse the body and aid in digestion. * You can even add a drop of Lemon essential oil and sliced fruit to your water for a delicious infused flavor.
How do you dilute essential oils for internal use? ›For essential oils that are too powerful to take directly, dilute a drop in at least four ounces of water before swallowing. Remember, essential oils like Cassia, Cinnamon, Clove, Cumin, Oregano, and Thyme should always be diluted.
Can you ingest garlic essential oil? ›Actually, garlic oil is not edible and is created through steam distillation of garlic juice and is so caustic it must be handled with special gloves. If it touches your skin you can lose some skin and must wash immediately. It cannot be ingested."
Can you ingest rosemary essential oil? ›Rosemary oil can be toxic if ingested and should never be taken orally.
Can you put essential oils in your mouth? ›Essential Oil Treatments
Promote healthy gums and fresh breath with an essential oil mouth rinse. Use 5-10 drops of your choice of oils per one cup of water. Swish one tablespoon of the mix at a time and spit out like you would any other mouthwash.
Oregano essential oil can be mixed with a carrier oil and applied topically. However, it should not be consumed orally.
How many drops of essential oil are in 1 lemon? ›The clean, zesty aroma of lemon has a remarkable cleansing effect on body and home. Lemon essential oil has a mouth-wateringly juicy fragrance that evokes sunshine in a bottle. It takes 3,000 lemons to make 1 kilo (roughly two pounds) of essential oil. That means one drop of oil is equal to 20 lemons!
How many drops of peppermint essential oil do I put in water? ›For hot drinks: Boil a cup of hot water and pour it into a mug. Mix in two to three drops of peppermint oil and drink. For cold drinks: Pour yourself a glass of cold water and mix in one drop of peppermint oil to create a calorie-free, thirst-quenching drink.
Can I take frankincense oil internally? ›Frankincense can be used internally as well as externally, and promotes feelings of peace, relaxation, satisfaction and overall wellness.
What does frankincense do to the brain? ›The most important component of frankincense is its resinous part and the main ingredients are incensole acetate and boswellic acid. According to previous studies, frankincense can have a positive effect on brain development, and possibly on the formation of dendrites and axons and improving their communication [24].
What essential oil is good for arthritis pain? ›
Research corroborates the use of aromatherapy for pain relief. In fact, a study from the Catholic University of Korea in Seoul showed that people with arthritis who sniffed a fragrant blend that included lavender, eucalyptus and rosemary experienced less pain and better moods than those who didn't.
Which essential oil is best for lungs? ›- Eucalyptus essential oil. Many people use this oil without realizing it. ...
- Rosemary essential oil. Rosemary is a common garden herb. ...
- Peppermint essential oil. ...
- Frankincense essential oil. ...
- Oregano essential oil. ...
- Thyme essential oil. ...
- Geranium essential oil. ...
- Cinnamon essential oil.
...
| How to use Eucalyptus Oil? | Requirements |
|---|---|
| Warm the water in the kettle | Kettle Bowl |
| Add 2-5 drops of Eucalyptus Oil | Eucalyptus oil |
Peppermint oil is great for use almost any tea; citrus, oolong, earl grey and even chocolate teas. It has a fresh and warming taste that enhances the flavor of the tea it is steeped in. Take care not to overdo the peppermint oil, as it could overpower the other flavors.
Is Thieves oil safe to ingest? ›Don't eat or drink essential oils unless you're under the supervision of a qualified professional. In fact, eucalyptus oil, which is a component of thieves oil, can be toxic when ingested. When using essential oils for aromatherapy, make sure the room you're in has good ventilation.
How many drops of cinnamon oil do I put in my water? ›| Amount of water | Amount of Cinnamon Bark Oil to be mixed for topical skin use and disinfecting. |
|---|---|
| 4 oz. water | 0.04 oz. Cinnamon Oil 1/4 teaspoon 24 drops |
| 3 oz. water | 0.03 oz. Cinnamon Oil 1/5 teaspoon 18 drops |
| 2 oz. water | 0.02 oz. Cinnamon Oil 1/8 teaspoon 12 drops |
What goes well with cinnamon essential oil? Essentials oils that blend well with cinnamon include bergamot, cardamom, clove, ginger, nutmeg, orange, peppermint, rose and vanilla.
What is ginger oil best for? ›Used medicinally, Ginger Essential Oil facilitates the elimination of toxins, boosts digestion, eases discomforts of the stomach and bowel, enhances appetite, clears the respiratory tract, soothes aches, and reduces inflammation.
Is peppermint oil safe to ingest? ›Peppermint oil appears to be safe when taken orally (by mouth) or applied topically in the doses commonly used. Peppermint oil has been safely used in many clinical trials. Possible side effects of peppermint oil taken orally include heartburn, nausea, abdominal pain, and dry mouth.
Is Lavender Oil safe to ingest? ›Lavender oil is generally not poisonous in adults when breathed in during aromatherapy or swallowed in smaller amounts. It may cause a reaction in children who swallow small amounts. The major effects are due to allergic reactions of the skin.
Can you drink peppermint oil in water? ›
As well as inhaling and applying peppermint oil topically, you can drink it by adding it to herbal teas or hot or cold water.
Can you drink peppermint essential oils? ›You can consume peppermint essential oil through capsules or as liquid drops. Oral dosing should follow the quantity and methods advertised because too much can be harmful. You should always consult a doctor about the use of supplements.
Is Lemon Essential Oil safe to ingest? ›You should not ingest lemon oil directly. If you wish to add lemon flavor when cooking or baking, make sure that you use a lemon extract approved for this use.
Can you ingest rosemary essential oil? ›Rosemary oil can be toxic if ingested and should never be taken orally.
Can I drink eucalyptus oil with warm water? ›...
| How to use Eucalyptus Oil? | Requirements |
|---|---|
| Warm the water in the kettle | Kettle Bowl |
| Add 2-5 drops of Eucalyptus Oil | Eucalyptus oil |
WebMD also reveals that lavender tea or its products like oil are unsafe for people undergoing surgery (4). This is because it might slow down the central nervous system when used alongside anesthesia and other medications taken before and after surgery (4).
Can I ingest frankincense oil? ›Nobody should ever ingest an essential oil, but people can swallow frankincense extract. It is important to follow the manufacturer's guidelines on dosage. Interactions with other drugs or side effects are much more common when the extract is taken by mouth.
Can you ingest cinnamon essential oil? ›You also shouldn't ingest full-strength cinnamon oil or pour it into capsules meant for oral use. Cinnamon oil can burn mucus membranes and the lining of the esophagus. Avoid rubbing full-strength cinnamon oil on the gums or getting it into your eyes too. Some people are allergic to cinnamon.
Can I take frankincense oil internally? ›Frankincense can be used internally as well as externally, and promotes feelings of peace, relaxation, satisfaction and overall wellness.
How many drops of peppermint essential oil do I put in water? ›Refresh while you rehydrate. Add a few drops of Peppermint Vitality™ to your water bottle for an extra refreshing zing. We recommend 1-2 drops for every 16 ounces of water.
What medications does peppermint interfere with? ›
- cyclosporine, taken by transplant recipients to prevent organ rejection.
- drugs that reduce stomach acid.
- ulcer medications.
- calcium channel blockers and other drugs used for hypertension or high blood pressure.
Grapefruit essential oil helps to break down body fat and increase your metabolism. Massaging your stomach with grapefruit essential oil may help reduce belly fat and waist circumference, revealed a study. The oil also regulates heart rate, improves the digestion process, and helps to reduce appetite.
Can I put essential oil in my tea? ›Some people take essential oils orally in teas, supplements or even via a drop or two on their tongue. “Unless you're directed by a trained herbalist, I recommend against using them this way. Since they're so strong, they may be harmful,” advises Dr. Lin.
Is peppermint an anti-inflammatory? ›Peppermint has antibacterial, antiviral and anti-inflammatory properties. Because of this, peppermint tea may fight clogged sinuses due to infections, the common cold and allergies ( 15 ).