doTERRA, a well-known essential oils company, has garnered a lot of attention since its inception in 2008. Specializing in essential oils and wellness products, the company operates through a multi-level marketing (MLM) model. This article will provide an overview of doTERRA, including its products, membership structure, and an unbiased review based on real feedback from users and members. By exploring the pros and cons of becoming a member, we aim to help you decide whether this company aligns with your wellness goals.
What is doTERRA?
doTERRA offers a broad range of essential oils and wellness products designed to enhance physical and emotional well-being. Their product lineup includes individual essential oils, blends, supplements, and personal care items. The company takes pride in its sourcing methods, using a process called "Co-Impact Sourcing" to ethically source raw materials from communities worldwide. According to doTERRA, this model ensures sustainable relationships with local growers while providing high-quality products to consumers.
Membership and Business Opportunity
doTERRA operates using an MLM business structure, which allows individuals to join as Wellness Advocates and earn income by selling products and building a network of distributors under them. As a member, you can purchase products at wholesale prices (typically 25% off retail), and there are opportunities for earning commissions through the business aspect.
However, it's important to understand that MLM models require substantial effort to earn significant income. According to members, success in the business aspect of doTERRA depends on your ability to recruit others, which may not appeal to everyone.
Pros of Joining doTERRA
- High-Quality Products: doTERRA emphasizes the purity of its essential oils, using a trademarked CPTG (Certified Pure Therapeutic Grade) protocol that includes multiple rounds of rigorous testing. Many users appreciate this level of transparency and quality control. One member shared, "Their oils are potent and effective—I've personally found the Deep Blue blend to help with muscle soreness after workouts".
- Ethical Sourcing: The company’s commitment to sourcing materials in developing countries through Co-Impact Sourcing is seen as a positive by many members. This program aims to benefit local communities while ensuring the sustainability of doTERRA's supply chain.
- Strong Community: Wellness Advocates often highlight the sense of community within the company. doTERRA hosts educational events and provides resources to help advocates succeed. One advocate said, "The community aspect and the support from other members really makes this more than just a business—it's a lifestyle".
- Product Variety: doTERRA offers a wide range of products, from essential oils to supplements and personal care items. This gives advocates a broad catalog to share with potential customers.
Cons of Joining doTERRA
- High Product Costs: One of the most commonly cited downsides of doTERRA is the cost of its products. Essential oils range from $13 to $100 per bottle, depending on the oil and bottle size. This can make the products less accessible to those on a budget, and members often find themselves needing to justify the higher prices to potential customers.
- MLM Structure: Like many MLMs, doTERRA's business model has drawn criticism. Earning a substantial income requires not only selling products but also recruiting new members into your downline. Some Wellness Advocates have expressed frustration with the emphasis on recruitment over product sales. One reviewer noted, "The company is structured like many other MLMs, and if you're not good at recruiting, it can be hard to make a meaningful income".
- Limited Transparency in Testing: While doTERRA advertises rigorous testing, some critics have raised concerns about the company’s transparency regarding its testing methods. A review pointed out that doTERRA does not readily share the details of their testing process, which can be a drawback for those seeking more concrete evidence of product purity.
- Ingestion Guidelines: doTERRA recommends the internal use of some essential oils, but this practice is controversial. While some users swear by the therapeutic benefits of ingesting oils, others argue that essential oils should not be consumed without medical supervision. One reviewer commented, "I’m not comfortable with the company’s guidance on internal use, and I’d advise new users to exercise caution".
Final Thoughts
Joining doTERRA as a customer or Wellness Advocate has both benefits and challenges. On the positive side, doTERRA offers high-quality, ethically sourced essential oils and wellness products that many users find effective. If you’re passionate about natural health and essential oils, doTERRA’s extensive product range and supportive community might be a good fit for you.
However, the business model and high product costs may not appeal to everyone, especially if you’re uncomfortable with recruitment-based income or wary of the premium pricing. It's crucial to weigh these factors before deciding if the doTERRA membership and business opportunity align with your personal and financial goals.
If you’re considering joining doTERRA, it's a good idea to sample the products first and explore other essential oil brands to make an informed decision.