Essential Oils Safety

Essential oils are becoming more and more common place in life, and therefore you should have a working knowledge of some safety precautions when encountering them. Essential oils are safe and beneficial in many ways, but you need to respect their properties and take certain elements under consideration when working with them.

Diluting

• Never use undiluted essential oils directly on the skin unless under the immediate care of a physician or licensed aroma therapist. The use of pure essential oils directly on the skin can cause severe allergic reactions to the skin itself, as well as the body due to absorbing such a concentrated dose at any given time.

Test

• The day before you plan on using a cream or oil with the essential oil in it, for example, place a small amount of the diluted oil on the inside of your elbow. If after 24 hours you have not had an allergic reaction, then proceed with its use.

Pregnancy

• There are actually quite a few essential oils, such as peppermint and juniper, which should be avoided while trying to become pregnant, while pregnant, or while nursing. Consult your doctor before exposure.

Internal

• Most essential oils are not safe to take internally, therefore never try to digest any of them without expressed consent from a doctor or licensed aroma therapist.

Storage

• Keep essential oils away from open flames, as they are extremely flammable. Keep these oils away from children, as they can become extremely dangerous if not treated with respect.