Essential Oil Safety

Essential oils, while natural, are highly concentrated botanical substances that should always be used with care. Skin or mucous membrane irritation, nervous system disturbances, and kidney or liver damage are possible with improper use. However, if some basic safety guidelines are followed, aromatherapy can be enjoyable and effective for a wide variety of applications. Here are some guidelines to keep in mind:

 

KEEP IT CLEAN

Use essential oils from sources you trust, that use pure plant ingredients and no chemical additives or synthetic fragrances. Their labelling should include the botanical name of the plant distilled.

NOT FOR INTERNAL USE

Never ingest essential oils unless you are under supervision of an aromatherapist. Taking oils by mouth can potentially cause harm to mucosal membranes, liver, and kidneys.

DON'T USE UNDILUTED OILS

Pure essential oils absorb very efficiently into our skin. Before applying them topically, add oils into a base of carrier oil or lotion, or their action will be too strong. Dilution requirements will vary based on the oils chosen and their intended use, see dilution guidelines below, and recommendations in the product's listing. If you'd rather skip diluting your own oils, use preformulated options that are ready to wear.

AVOID SENSITIVITIES

If you are concerned about a skin sensitivity or allergic reaction to an oil, do a patch test on a small area of skin first, using 1 oz carrier oil to 10 drops essential oil. If an essential oil causes dermal irritation, apply a small amount of vegetable oil or cream to the area.

Certain oils can be photosensitizing, causing skin irritation or uneven pigmentation with sun exposure. Citrus oils are best known for this issue: bergamot, lemon, lime, grapefruit, orange & bitter orange. Give your skin 8 hours between wearing these oils and going out in the sun or using a tanning bed.

Avoid prolonged, heavy use of the same essential oils over time. 

AVOID OVEREXPOSURE

Avoid a heavy dose of essential oils by following guidelines for topical use and by burning your diffuser in a well ventilated room. 

KEEP ALL ESSENTIAL OILS OUT OF REACH OF YOUNG CHILDREN AND PETS

Children need supervision around essential oils. If a child appears to have ingested essential oil, contact poison control. Keep the bottle for identification and encourage the child to drink whole or 2% milk. Do not try to induce vomiting.

USE CAUTION WITH PREGNANCY

Many aromatherapy products are not recommended for use during pregnancy. Please use caution and choose from among the safest options: chamomile, citrus oils, geranium, lavender, sandalwood, and rose.

EYE CARE

Keep essential oils out of the eyes. If an accident occurs, use a soft cloth and a carrier oil such as olive oil to gently rub the closed eye. You can also flush the eyes with cool water.

ESSENTIAL OILS ARE FLAMMABLE

Essential oils are highly flammable substances and should be kept away from  flame sources such as candles, stoves, matches, or cigarettes.

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Dilution Guidelines

 

Essential oils are powerful and highly concentrated substances, but like anything we use on or in our bodies, they are safe when used correctly. Dosage and appropriate use are key. Here are some suggestions for common applications.

 

BODY OIL OR LOTION  for healthy skin, 6-15 drops per ounce of carrier oil or other base (a 1-2.5% dilution). For sensitive skin, reduce oils to 3-6 drops per ounce of base (a .5-1% dilution).

STEAM TREATMENT  3-5 drops in a bowl of steaming water.

BATHTUB  3-12 drops added to 1 teaspoon carrier oil or honey per tub, depending on the oil used.

FOOTBATH OR SITZBATH  5-10 drops per gallon of water.

ROOM/BODY SPRAY 10-15 drops per ounce of water.

COMPRESS  5 drops in 1 cup water.