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On Guard Blend

Also known as: On Guard Blend, doTERRA On Guard essential oil blend

Overview

On Guard Blend is a proprietary essential oil blend marketed for immune support, respiratory health, and as a natural cleaner. It primarily consists of wild orange, clove, cinnamon bark, eucalyptus, and rosemary essential oils, each extracted from different plant parts. The blend is characterized by its strong aromatic profile and claimed broad-spectrum antimicrobial activity. It is used topically, aromatically (diffused), and sometimes ingested in small amounts. Research on On Guard Blend is limited, with mostly preliminary in vitro studies and small-scale research available. The quality of available evidence is low to moderate, primarily consisting of in vitro studies and some small human cell studies, with no robust clinical trials or meta-analyses.

Benefits

In vitro studies suggest that On Guard Blend may reduce the infectivity of the influenza virus in canine kidney cells, indicating potential antiviral properties. A doTERRA-funded study indicated a reduction in inflammatory markers in human cells and potential wound healing support, but this study lacks independent verification and robust clinical design. Individual oils within the blend, such as eucalyptus, cinnamon, and clove, have demonstrated antimicrobial and immune-enhancing effects in separate studies, mostly in vitro or in vapor form. However, there is a lack of high-quality evidence supporting specific benefits in defined human populations, and effect sizes from in vitro studies cannot be directly extrapolated to clinical significance in humans.

How it works

The blend's components demonstrate antimicrobial activity, likely through disruption of microbial membranes and inhibition of viral replication proteins in vitro. It is proposed to modulate immune responses and inflammation at the cellular level, although evidence is limited to cell culture models. Known molecular targets include viral proteins involved in replication, microbial cell membranes, and inflammatory signaling pathways in human cells (based on limited data). Essential oils are volatile compounds absorbed primarily through inhalation or topical application; systemic absorption and bioavailability after ingestion are poorly characterized.

Side effects

On Guard Blend is generally considered safe when used as directed topically or aromatically. However, ingestion carries a risk of irritation or toxicity if not properly diluted. Common side effects include skin irritation or sensitization with topical use. Uncommon side effects include allergic reactions in sensitive individuals. Rare side effects include severe allergic reactions or phototoxicity, especially with citrus oils. There are no well-documented drug interactions, but caution is advised with anticoagulants or other medications metabolized by liver enzymes due to potential modulation by essential oils. It is contraindicated for ingestion in children, pregnant or breastfeeding women without medical advice, and undiluted topical application should be avoided. Children and those with sensitive skin have an increased risk of irritation.

Dosage

Due to a lack of clinical trials, the minimum effective dose and optimal dosage ranges for On Guard Blend have not been established. Typical use involves dilution in carrier oils for topical application or diffusion in the air. The maximum safe dose is also not established, and ingestion should be minimal and under professional guidance. There are no evidence-based timing recommendations. It is used as a diluted topical oil, diffuser blend, or household cleaner. Volatility and lipophilicity affect absorption, with inhalation leading to rapid uptake in the respiratory tract. No required cofactors have been identified.

FAQs

Does On Guard prevent colds or flu?

There is no clinical evidence that On Guard prevents respiratory infections in humans; in vitro antiviral effects do not translate directly to clinical efficacy.

Is it safe to ingest On Guard?

Ingestion is not generally recommended without professional guidance due to potential toxicity and irritation.

How should it be used for immune support?

It is commonly used aromatically or topically diluted; no proven dosing regimen exists.

Are there any side effects?

Skin irritation is the most common; allergic reactions are possible.

Can it replace conventional medicine?

No; it should not replace evidence-based medical treatments.

Research Sources

https://www.doterra.com/US/en/blog/science-research-news-doterra-on-guard-study – This doTERRA blog post summarizes a study on On Guard, highlighting its potential benefits. However, it's important to note that the study was funded by doTERRA, which may introduce bias. Readers should consider this when evaluating the claims made about the product's efficacy.
https://sciencebasedmedicine.org/on-guard-doterra-essential-oils-and-a-lesson-in-reading-research-studies/ – This article provides a critical analysis of the research behind doTERRA's On Guard essential oil blend. It highlights the limitations of in vitro studies and the lack of robust clinical evidence to support the claims made about its health benefits. The author emphasizes the importance of evaluating research critically, especially when it is funded by the company selling the product.
https://www.healthline.com/health/cold-flu/on-guard-doterra – This Healthline article discusses the On Guard essential oil blend and its potential uses for cold and flu symptoms. It mentions the blend's ingredients and their purported benefits, but also notes the lack of strong scientific evidence to support these claims. The article advises caution and suggests consulting with a healthcare professional before using On Guard for medicinal purposes.
https://www.doterra.com/US/en/p/on-guard-oil – This is the official doTERRA product page for On Guard essential oil. It provides information about the blend's ingredients, uses, and benefits, according to doTERRA's marketing claims. As with any product page, it's important to consider that the information presented may be biased towards promoting the product.
https://www.bmj.com/content/349/bmj.g7647 – This BMJ article discusses the importance of evidence-based medicine and critical appraisal of research. While it doesn't specifically mention On Guard, it provides a framework for evaluating the scientific claims made about any health product or intervention. The article emphasizes the need for rigorous clinical trials and systematic reviews to determine the true efficacy and safety of medical treatments.