What does the term "therapeutic grade" imply regarding essential oils?

The term "therapeutic grade" implies that the essential oil has been tested for both purity and effectiveness. This classification suggests a standard in which the oil meets specific requirements related to its chemical composition and overall quality, ensuring that it is free from contaminants and adulterants. Therapeutic grade oils are often subjected to rigorous testing to verify that they retain their potency and therapeutic properties, which is crucial for their effective use in aromatherapy and other therapeutic practices.

While some may associate therapeutic grade with approval by health authorities or claims of superior efficacy, these aspects are not universally definable and can vary significantly between different brands and types of essential oils. The definition does not necessarily encompass the organic status of the ingredients used, as there are high-quality oils made from non-organic sources that may still qualify as therapeutic grade due to their purity and proven effectiveness.