Young Living is a global leader in the essential oils market, boasting over 5 million members worldwide. Founded in 1993 by Gary Young, the company operates under a multi-level marketing (MLM) model, selling essential oils and wellness products through independent distributors. While Young Living’s products are praised for their quality, its business model has received mixed reviews from members and customers alike. In this article, we’ll break down the pros and cons of joining Young Living, featuring real feedback from members to help you make an informed decision.
The Products: High Quality, But Are They Worth the Price?
Young Living offers a wide range of essential oils, natural cleaning products, vitamins, and beauty items, all marketed as part of a healthier, all-natural lifestyle. Their "Seed to Seal" program ensures quality control, from plant cultivation to the final product, which many customers appreciate.
One user mentioned, “The quality of Young Living oils is hard to beat. I’ve used their lavender oil for over a year, and it’s been amazing for reducing my anxiety”. However, others feel the prices are steep. For instance, their lavender essential oil can cost much more than similar products from other brands like Eden's Garden, which some users consider just as effective at a lower price.
The MLM Structure: Opportunity or Risk?
Young Living operates under a classic MLM model, which allows members to earn money by selling products and recruiting others to do the same. Members receive commissions on their own sales as well as the sales of their recruits, which can create a passive income stream.
One member highlighted, “If you build a big enough team, it can become a reliable source of income, but it’s not as easy as it sounds”. Indeed, the reality is that most members won’t reach high levels of earnings. According to the company’s income disclosure, nearly 90% of members make less than $1,000 annually, with many earning as little as $3 per year. So, while there is potential for income, it’s highly dependent on your ability to recruit others.
Pros of Joining Young Living:
- Product Quality: Many members rave about the purity and effectiveness of the essential oils. The Seed to Seal process ensures that high standards are maintained.
- Discounts: As a member, you receive a 24% discount on all products, which is appealing to those who use the oils regularly.
- Charitable Work: The Young Living Foundation, founded in 2009, supports various humanitarian causes, including efforts against human trafficking.
- Potential for Passive Income: If you are skilled at recruiting, you can build a downstream and earn commissions on their sales.
Cons of Joining Young Living:
- Low Earnings Potential: Most members earn very little, and the most successful members are typically those who joined early and recruited a significant number of people.
- Pricey Products: While many praise the product quality, some customers feel that the oils and other items are overpriced compared to alternatives.
- Saturated Market: With so many distributors, it can be difficult to find new customers and recruits, especially in regions where Young Living already has a strong presence.
- Controversies and Legal Challenges: Young Living has faced lawsuits regarding misleading health claims and their business model’s resemblance to a pyramid scheme. While the company sells real products, the focus on recruitment raises questions.
Final Thoughts: Is Young Living Right for You?
Young Living’s essential oils are widely regarded as high-quality, making the company attractive for those who love aromatherapy and natural products. However, the MLM structure and the limited earning potential make it less appealing for those looking to make a substantial income. As one member pointed out, “You really need to have a passion for the products, otherwise it’s hard to succeed in this business”.
If you're considering joining Young Living, it’s crucial to weigh the pros and cons carefully. If you're primarily interested in the oils, becoming a member for the discounts may be worth it. However, if your goal is to earn a full-time income, you might want to explore other opportunities or prepare for the significant effort needed to build a successful team.