Avoiding scams in the holistic wellness space

While I love learning about new wellness trends and holistic products, I also recognize there are a LOT of scams in the holistic wellness community. I’m sure you’ve watched the UnWell Episode on Essential Oils, right? Here are a few warning signs to watch out for in the holistic wellness space.

If it sounds too good to be true

We all love a quick fix, but rarely can a single product fix all your problems or offer extravagant results. So often, you will hear wellness “experts” throw around words and claims that sound too good to be true. That’s because it probably is. 

A “one size fits all” mentality 

Anytime a company, person, or product uses blanket statements or claims to work for anyone and everyone, I get a little leary. Health is highly individual, so there isn’t a “one size fits all” for anything. If you hear this, it may be a red flag. 

Lack of credentials 

In the age of social media and wellness “experts,” you can often find people giving health or medical advice that have no business giving health or medical advice. If they do not have the proper training and credentials, they can be giving bad or harmful advice to you and many others. When it comes to your health, trying new supplements, etc. You always want to consult with a trusted healthcare professional who understands you and your health history. Next time you come across an Instagram ad or a viral TikTok video that is sharing interesting health info, ask yourself, “Does the person sharing this information have the proper credentials to be giving such advice?” and maybe do a bit of your own research.

Financial incentive 

If a person is sharing health information with the intent to sell you a product or service, this could be a scam. While there are many health and wellness experts offering amazing products and services, there are many more people who are just looking to make money. Always be aware of the motive or incentive behind a person pushing a product and decipher whether or not this is quality, science-backed health advice. 

Lack of evidence 

With anything you learn in life, especially what you read on the internet, always do your own research. If someone claims their tincture can cure cancer, are there evidence-based articles and research to back up what they’re saying? Quality and professional health and wellness companies, coaches, etc. will have science to back their claims. 

It’s great that so many people are interested in holistic wellness and making better choices for their health. In your journey, remember to always dig a little deeper, do your own research, and make informed decisions!