Using Correct Language for Herbs and Essential Oils Products
NOTE: This article is about why herbalists and those selling herbal and aromatherapy products use such “shady sounding” language and can’t come right out and honestly state what the herb or essential oil is known, or even clinically proven, to do. It’s also about how to speak in language the FDA (Federal Food and Drug Administration) takes kindly to, and will keep you out of trouble, especially if you’re selling herbal products with or without essential oils.
Let’s Talk Scope of Practice
Most of us into natural living know all too well how wonderfully healthy herbs and essential oils are and how well they work for wellness needs. Many of us prefer them over the noxious over-the-counter toxic chemical concoctions, because they work better, and they are also much safer and healthier. Herbs support the body’s healing processes. Drugs tend to make things more difficult for the healing body in the long term.
Here’s the conundrum: Herbalists aren’t medical doctors (unless they are, and these are few and far between). Herbalists and aromatherapists aren’t generally licensed to practice medicine. Therefore we are not allowed to offer any kind of medical treatment, diagnosis, cure, or prevention. We can’t claim to heal any illness or disease.
This is why you’ll find disclaimers on herbal and natural remedies, and you should see them on blog posts and YouTube channel descriptions as well.
Legally, herbalists and aromatherapists must let the public know they aren’t medical professionals, and that herbs and essential oils, although completely relevant and effective for our wellness and have many clinical studies backing up their efficacy, are NOT categorized as drugs. In fact, the FDA doesn’t regulate herbs or essential oils.
This is why you’ll see words from those of us who practice, such as: “support,” “balance,” “improve,” etc. and not, “Hey, this essential oil might just be able to clear and dry your sinuses, “ or something like, “Use this herbal tea and cure your -fill in the blank.”
The thing is, a good herbalist views a human body or even a pet from a holistic perspective. We tend to have a “wellness” approach and not a “symptom” approach. Although symptoms (like sore throat, hot flashes, dry skin, etc.) are part of the puzzle and can certainly be helped tremendously with herbs and essential oils; herbalists will still be looking at the whole picture, which includes mind, body, spirit, emotions, etc.
This is because, unlike modern medical practices, we believe it ALL matters. All aspects of our humanity play into our health and wellness, can improve our well-being or even make us very ill.
In terms of the words we use, our language, it’s VERY important to stay compliant with the FDA’s regulations. The job of the FDA is to “protect and promote public health.” In this regard, the FDA oversees food safety, all drugs, both prescription and over-the-counter; cosmetics; and also medical devices, as well as other things.
This is why the FDA does look at the language we use on our labeling and even our marketing on websites for herbs and essential oils because they want to make sure the products are being marketed in a way that doesn’t make them seem “medical,” or that they’re like some form of a “drug.”
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So, What Does the FDA Say is a “Drug,”?
If a product is meant to treat or prevent a disease or illness, or to affect in some way the structure of function of any part of the body, then it will fall into the “drug” category. And these are regulated.
Herbs and essential oils that are marketed to “support” an area of the body for wellness (notice—-not illness) or that are marketed in a way that they fall under the “cosmetic” guidelines, then they have different rules according to the FDA.
What Does the FDA Say is a “Cosmetic,”?
According to the FDA literature, a cosmetic is meant to be used in some way (rubbed into, poured onto, sprinkled, sprayed, etc.) for cleansing, beautifying, improving attractiveness, or otherwise altering the appearance of a body part.
The issue for many of us who use (and sell) essential oils and herbs and aromatherapy and herbal products is that it’s so tempting to allow our language to tip over into the area the FDA applies to “drugs.” Obviously, this is because we know full well why they work and can even state scientific evidence to this effect. Unfortunately, this doesn’t matter.
It’s important to note that the FDA seems more concerned with products for sale to the public than about information used when educating people about herbs and essential oils. Regardless, it’s just a good idea to be aware of the “rules,” and to know how to avoid scrutiny from governmental entities whether you’re selling a product or simply educating people.
I also need to mention here that if you’re selling products and are informing customers about the uses of the product via a website or other material (YouTube, flyers, etc.) that this information may be construed as marketing your product. And if you go over the line, there may be some consequences.
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The BEST Language to Use for Herbs and Essential Oil Products and Why Respecting the FDA’s Guidelines is So Important
First, let me must say that here in America at this time in history in a developed country, we’re certainly fortunate. Although the FDA does regulate drugs and cosmetics, it doesn’t regulate “herbs” or essential oils. It also doesn’t regulate practitioners or those who sell products, UNLESS they cross that boundary line of medical language.
If you’re planning to sell aromatherapy or herbal products on the free market, it’s so vital that you learn to use key language that can describe what your product does without leaning over the boundary into medical speak. This includes on labels, marketing materials of any kind, e-commerce websites like Etsy or Shopify and others, and other content areas that help create sales.
Simply….you want to avoid using words the FDA considers are applicable to medicine or “drugs.”
If you’re not selling products and only teaching others, then you have more leeway with your language. You can cite research that’s been done on the therapeutic value and uses of essential oils and herbs; talk about personal experiences and success stories; discuss the herb or the oils’ traditional uses in history; or even use quotes from published books.
And here’s something to note: Most of the time, the FDA will start off with a warning for those who accidentally step over this boundary line, and usually, they’re eager to help the business fix the issue and become “legal.”
A good thing to do if you’re planning to sell products is to sit down with an attorney who is well-versed in the regulations of the FDA. Doing this ahead of time is the smartest route of action.
Language You Shouldn’t Use
There’s a lot of gray area in the language we’re allowed to use or not. But to make a general statement, you can use descriptive language that doesn’t make strong health claims. This is why you see that annoying word, “support,” show up on so many labels. For most consumers, the thought that goes through our minds is, “What on earth does that mean?”
But when you understand WHY that word is used, it makes a lot more sense. And anyone interested in natural living should hopefully learn this early on at some point in their journey.
In a nutshell, you can’t use words that pertain to medicine. Some of these are:
treat
heal
advise
prescribe
dose
correct
diagnose
cure
This also applies to what you name your product. Hence, all the “creative” names on products you’ll see out there. You need to avoid making statements that pertain to any health related issues, specific diseases, illnesses, or even injuries.
So, many herbalists and aromatherapists use flowery, descriptive and even fun language to describe what the product might do. Using pictures can also be helpful. Although annoying, it can be a bit of fun to learn to describe what your product does without using medical language.
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What Words CAN Herbalists and Aromatherapists Use?
First of all, the FDA is much more likely to scrutinize and penalize a person who is selling products than one who is educating. There’s a saying in the herbal world that you can either teach or sell products, but you can’t really do both. Although, I do know plenty of herbalists who DO sell their own lines of products, they have to be extra careful.
Those of us who teach herbalism also need to be careful about not making medical claims of the plants and oils; however, again, we can discuss our experiences with ourselves, our families, our clients if we have a consultation practice, and we can make “suggestions,” and give opinions. We can (and should if possible) refer to any clinical or scientific studies regarding the plants’ efficacy.
If you’re interested in starting an herbal business or are just sharing products with family and friends, it’s actually kind of fun to get creative with your words. And…you can explain why you’re saying what you’re saying, too. This helpful information can be useful for lay people who don’t understand.
Saying that Roman chamomile’s honey-like scent is calming and relaxing is an example.
or….
Lavender’s soft, lovely scent inspires feelings of comfort and ease so you can get healthy sleep. But…we can’t say, “lavender helps you sleep; or lavender can cure insomnia.”
I have to say, though, there are such gray areas, and we all need to decide for ourselves where that line is. I think as long as we make sure we let people know that our herbs and essential oil products are NOT drugs, that you keep that disclaimer obvious on your writings and your labels, and that you sincerely are trying to stay within the boundaries of the FDA’s guidelines, you’ll be fine.
I’ve heard the FDA will give a warning first, before fining a business, too. This gives an herbalist a chance to change product labels and any information that might be construed as “medical.”
Here are some descriptive words you can choose from:
soothe
calm
ease
comfort
support (you’ll see this one often)
relax
center
refresh
energize
cooling
warming
balancing
restore
nourish
revitalize
rejuvenate
discomfort
common ailment
wellness
health
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AND….
It’s also just fine to talk about the herb’s and essential oil’s emotional or spiritual characteristics. So we can say things like:
lemon essential oil can uplift your mood (instead of saying lemon essential oil can help you stop feeling sad or depressed.)
We can definitely share how the herbal preparation or the essential oil supports a person’s general well-being. We can talk about how it can help you feel wonderful while you get things done or are getting ready for bed, for example.
Remember, too, it’s just fine to share your own personal experiences with words. And example is, “For my allergy issues, I found that taking a mullein/marshmallow tincture REALLY helped. And when I diffused peppermint, I could stay awake easily on long drives.
More Examples of Appropriate vs. Inappropriate Language:
Danger Zone: “Fennel seed essential oil can stop gas after a heavy meal.”
Much Better: “Fennel seed essential oil helps relieve discomfort after a heavy meal,” or even better: “Fennel seed essential oil can help you feel comfortable after a big meal.”
*****
Danger Zone: “Valerian root tea will get rid of your insomnia.”
Much Better: “Valerian root works great to help me get a great night’s sleep!” or “Valerian root is a powerful option for creating a soothing environment for rest.”
*****
Danger Zone: “Massage Oil for High Blood Pressure”
Much Better: “Calm Heart Massage Oil”
*****
Danger Zone: “Reduces wrinkles”
Much Better: “Youthful and Glowing”
Have Fun with Your Words:
Choose a few herbs or essential oils, and write out some statements with descriptive and creative language that won’t get you into trouble. Practice these so the words start rolling off your lips!
Before you create a label, brainstorm several different names or descriptions and run them by friends. Then choose the best one.
If you’re explaining verbally or in writing to customers or students about what the herbs and essential oils do, you’ll find that people will naturally start thinking about and describing the plants in similar ways. And it’s definitely fine to explain why you’re speaking in such flowery language instead of just being straightforward.
An Important Note on Misrepresenting Yourself
NOTE: One thing that I feel is vitally important is to NOT mis-represent yourself as a medical professional if you’re not. Even if you are a veterinarian, a chiropractor, or other sort of alternative practitioner and are NOT a human medical practitioner, you need to spell this out clearly and often, especially if you carry the title of “doctor.” This even includes the different naturopathic types of doctors there are.
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Labeling Products Correctly
Visit the American Herbal Products Association for more information and a set of guidelines for using safe language on your products and also including any safety precautions. These guidelines are very important for herbalists and aromatherapists because using these guidelines can help protect your liability.
Here are some examples:
“Keep out of reach of children”
“For external use only” or “Do not ingest.”
“Keep away from eyes and mucous membranes”
For both herbs and oils, be sure to include the Latin binomial of the plant you’re using
Be sure to state the plant part the essential oil or the herb is from
The measured amount inside the bottle must be stated (not the bottle’s size)
For both herbs and oils, the country of origin, if you’re just selling the single. If you’re selling a blend (of herbal tea, or an essential oil synergy, for example), you must keep a record of your ingredients with all of this information, including lot numbers. Be sure to look into the FDA’s Good Manufacturing Practices (GMP’s)
Your business name and location
Website address
Be sure to look into the website above and to check with the FDA’s website too, as this isn’t a complete list.
Final Thoughts
Selling products and educating others about herbalism and aromatherapy doesn’t have to be stressful, as long as you keep your scope of practice in mind at all times. All of us are responsible for our own health and wellness, and we all get to choose which health avenues we choose to go down when it comes to working with our own bodies and minds.
The medical industry and Big Pharma seem to want to frighten the general public into not using natural remedies, but the fact is, herbs and essential oils have a long history of use for wellness. In the case of herbs, thousands and thousands of years, as a matter of fact.
In my own personal case, I’ve only used herbs and essential oils for my health needs and NO Rx or over-the-counter drugs at all for around ten years now. And I can personally attest to never having been healthier. We’re all responsible for the things we choose to put into our bodies, and we’re also responsible for the words we say, the claims we make, and we need to operate within the boundaries of the law and our own scopes of practice.
In our country we are blessed beyond measure to be able to use herbs and essential oils freely. In some developed countries, they are highly regulated, and often difficult to use and obtain. For us, as herbalists, to continue to be able to enjoy the privilege of sharing our herbal products and to educate others, it’s vital that we not overstep our bounds or risk more regulation of what is a beautiful thousands of years old practice of folk herbalism.
If you enjoyed this article and found it informative, please do share it. You may also like these related or similar articles:
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And on YouTube:
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Enjoy! And explore learning herbalism with us!
Hugs, Health, and Self-Reliance,
Heidi
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Sources:
Information for this article comes from my own many years of experience selling products and teaching herbalism. It also comes from schools I’ve attended in the past for training, and you can find a list in the “About” section of this website. :-)