Being an essential oils distributor can be an exciting and profitable venture, especially if you are keen on and love natural products. Essential oils are distilled by water or steam from barks, stems, roots, leaves, flowers and other parts of a plant. Essential oil sellers serve estheticians, health practitioners and massage therapists. To be successful in this venture, you require an understanding of essential oils, their uses and functions, as well as good marketing skills and planning.

Research

The first step to being an essential oil distributor is to understand the products and the market. Learn about essential oils, types, uses and benefits. Some essential oils are used for psychological therapeutic benefits, while others are used for beauty or flavoring purposes. For example, peppermint is an energy booster while chamomile is an antidepressant. Also, because essential oils come from different parts of the world, you will need to research the advantages of working with one manufacturer versus distributing different brands. For instance, bergamot is more available in Southeast Asia and eucalyptus comes from Australia

Find A Supplier

Find essential oil wholesalers by using contact people in the country you intend to source a product from, visiting trade shows, finding print publications on essential oils, or online through trade lead sites and using general search engines such as Google. You can either work with manufacturers directly or their regional wholesalers. Also, many essential oil manufacturers and marketers advertise for distributorship or dealer programs. For example, Young Living, an American based essential oils company, gives its distributors products at 24 percent off retailing prices and gives them up to 20 percent for each order they place. Some manufacturers may require you to pay a distributorship fee or meet a monthly minimum purchase.

Registration and Licensing

You must register with the county clerk and state agencies as per the regulations of your state. Visit your nearest U.S. Small Business Administration office or website to find out about registration and licensing requirements as a distributor. Also, you will need to determine your federal and state tax obligations, and file for a tax ID.

Start Up

The last step in your journey to become an essential oil distributor is to stock your business. Essential oil business opportunities vary based on the availability of various oils and your target market. Contact your suppliers, sign distributorship agreements and place orders. You can sell the oils as pure or blends of several essential oils. Develop a customer base through networking and advertising in trade-appropriate publications such as salon, newsletters and alternative health magazines.

Use Social Media

Social media platforms provide an easy way for you to get the word out about your business. You can use your existing accounts on sites such as Facebook, Instagram, Pinterest and Twitter, but it may be more effective to set up separate accounts dedicated to your business. Experts recommend you take the time to study the workings of social media marketing and develop a plan that's right for you. Limit yourself to two or three platforms, at least to start. Engage with your followers to build loyalty and increase your customer base.