Why We Don't Use Essential Oils (And What We Use Instead)

Last updated: April 2026

Fragrance oils are synthetic blends formulated to be safe in finished cosmetic products, while essential oils are concentrated plant extracts that carry environmental, safety, and regulatory concerns many consumers don't know about.

At Arbor Grove, we get this question more than any other: why don't you use essential oils? The short answer is that we believe fragrance oils are the more responsible, safer, and more sustainable choice for handcrafted body and home products. Here's the full picture.

The Environmental Cost of Essential Oils

Essential oils require staggering amounts of plant material to produce. To make just one pound of essential oil, you need approximately 250 pounds of lavender flowers, 5,000 pounds of rose petals, 5,000 pounds of lemon balm, or 6,000 pounds of melissa plant. Jasmine is even more extreme: roughly 8,000 blossoms yield a single gram of oil.

That resource intensity has real consequences. Several plant species commonly sold as essential oils — including rosewood, sandalwood, and spikenard — are now endangered. United Plant Savers maintains an updated list of species at risk from overharvesting. When a plant species is exhausted, the impact ripples through local communities and ecosystems.

The Safety Questions Most Brands Won't Address

Essential oils are not regulated in the United States. According to the American Lung Association, there is no oversight ensuring the quality, concentration, or purity of what's in each bottle.

These highly concentrated oils emit volatile organic compounds (VOCs), which can negatively affect the respiratory system. The risks include skin irritation and burns from direct application, toxic reactions if swallowed (even diluted), allergic contact dermatitis, asthma attacks triggered by inhaled fumes, headaches from excessive exposure, and potential organ damage at incorrect doses. Some essential oils are specifically contraindicated during pregnancy, and certain oils are harmful to pets.

What We Use Instead

Arbor Grove products are scented with USA-made fragrance oils from established American companies that prioritize safety and quality. While fragrance oils contain natural components (including some essential oil derivatives), they are formulated to be safe in finished products and perform consistently across batches.

Every one of our products is formulated within IFRA (International Fragrance Association) guidelines on a scent-by-scent basis, using each fragrance's individual Safety Data Sheet. This means we know the exact safe usage rate for every scent in every product type — something that's nearly impossible to guarantee with unregulated essential oils.

The Claims We Refuse to Make

You've probably seen brands claim that essential oils "enter through the skin, carrying away harmful toxins, free-radicals, cell debris, fungi, bacteria, and viruses." We believe it's our responsibility to be truthful and stay far away from these claims, especially in our marketing.

When you encounter claims like these, ask: Which toxins, specifically? Which bacteria — including the beneficial ones? At what dose and frequency? If your kidneys and liver already perform these functions, what does an oil add?

We follow the FDA's guidelines on cosmetic vs. drug claims. Our products are designed to smell wonderful and feel luxurious on your skin — and we let the experience speak for itself.

The Bottom Line

Choosing fragrance oils over essential oils isn't about cutting corners. It's about making a deliberate choice for safety, sustainability, and honesty. Our fragrance oils deliver complex, beautiful scents — from bright citrus to deep amber to fresh botanicals — without the environmental footprint or safety unknowns.

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About Arbor Grove: We're a small-batch botanical skincare and home fragrance brand based in Atkinson, New Hampshire. Every product is handcrafted, cruelty-free, and made with USA-sourced ingredients where possible. Shop our full collection at arbor-grove.com.

Frequently Asked Questions

Are fragrance oils safe for sensitive skin?

Our fragrance oils are formulated to meet IFRA safety guidelines for each specific product type (candles, soaps, lotions, etc.). We calculate the safe usage rate for every scent in every formula using the manufacturer's Safety Data Sheet. That said, individual sensitivities vary — we always recommend patch testing any new body product.

Do fragrance oils contain chemicals?

All scents — natural and synthetic — are chemicals. The difference is that commercial fragrance oils are tested for safety at specific usage rates, while essential oils are largely unregulated. Our suppliers provide full Safety Data Sheets for every fragrance.

Are Arbor Grove products cruelty-free?

Yes. All Arbor Grove products are cruelty-free, and we are in the process of becoming Leaping Bunny certified. We source from suppliers who meet our standards for sustainability and fair trade.