Are Essential Oils Gluten Free?

The number of individuals developing celiac disease, gluten sensitivity/gluten intolerance, and wheat allergies is growing at an alarming rate. I have been repeatedly hearing that approximately 1% of the population of the United States has an issue in digesting gluten.

It is my understanding that all commonly available essential oils and absolutes are gluten free, with the possible exception of Hay Absolute. I want to make it very clear that I'm speaking of pure essential oils and absolutes here, not fragrance oils or blended products that contain other ingredients.

Some, but not all, essential oil companies are starting to add Gluten Free to their labels and product descriptions. Some companies feel it's obvious that essential oils are gluten free and feel that they might be overstating the obvious if they actively promote their oils as gluten free. Alternatively, some companies want to ensure that their products are labeled/identified as gluten free so that customers who are new to watching out for sources of gluten don't have to guess if essential oils are gluten free.

If it is important or necessary for you to ensure that products are gluten-free, do be absolutely sure to ask the retailer or supplier that you are shopping with for confirmation that the oil or product is definitely gluten free.

See Also: Are Carrier Oils Gluten Free?