The Frequency Myth

Introduction
Over the years, a number of theories have been introduced that cover different aspects of essential oils, from origins to usages. Most of these theories have come from companies trying to sell their oils. As part of this site's educational value, we will warn you of the different tricks used today.

The "Frequency" Theory
This is a theory that has been considered superstition by many, and common sense science by others. The most common origin in this theory starts with the ancient Egyptians, who discovered that odors could affect a body's frequency. Although not explicitly stated, this implies that they were aware that the human body had a frequency. In other words, they were aware that the body had vibrating molecules. This is one of many arguments against this theory.

The truth of the matter is that the Egyptians did use essential oils, but there is no solid evidence that links their usage to an understanding or even awareness of any frequencies. Like much of medicine in earlier times, the effects were able to be seen without understanding the reason behind them.

Most of this history then skips to the 1920's when a physician named Dr. Royal R. Rife came up with the idea that diseases and disorders had frequencies, and by increasing the molecular frequency of these problems, they could either be prevented or even destroyed. In sequence, it was then discovered that essential oils had the highest frequency of anything known to man. Enter the plan.

A science, inappropriately named Essential Oil Therapy, was then born. It stated that essential oils could be used to alter or increase the frequency of the human body, thereby making the body more resistant to diseases and destroying existing disorders.

Coincidentally, this all happened around the same time that a French cosmetic science named Rene-Maurice Gattefosse had an accident in his lab. Looking around for the nearest source of water, he immersed his severely-burnt arm in a vat of lavender oil, and it helped heal the wound. The scientist then continued to study the oils, leading to their use in World War II as alternative treatment, and some venture this was where the name "Aromatherapy" originated.

This frequency theory has been utilized most often by the Young Living Essential Oils company to try and convince their buyers that they have higher-quality products, and thus can charge higher prices.