Essential Oils Safety
Essential oils safety is an important consideration for anyone thinking about using therapeutic oils in their home.
Because of different views regarding the use of essential oils, some will give warning about their safety. But it must be kept in mind that these concerns arise from the use of oils that are not pure, therapeutic-grade. When unadulterated, therapeutic oils are used, and used sensibly, they are very safe. That said, it is a good idea for every user of essential oils to be familiar with some safety guidelines. This will help assure that your experience with essential oils will be safe, effective, and enjoyable.
Essential Oils Safety Guidelines
Use only pure, therapeutic-grade oils from a trustworthy source. Oils that have been diluted, modified, or extended with synthetic compounds may present hazards and should be avoided. Keep essential oils out of the reach of children. Treat them as you would any therapeutic product in your home.People with sensitive skin or allergies can test an oil by using a small amount on a tender area of skin such as the underside of the upper arm and waiting 30 minutes. The soles of the feet are a generally safe place to apply essential oils even for those who have sensitive skin. Keep a bottle of vegetable oil available when using essential oils. It can be used to dilute an essential oil and slow down its rate of absorption if there is any discomfort or skin irritation.Pregnant women should consult their health care professional prior to using essential oils. Those oils with hormonal qualities – like basil, calamus, clary sage, fennel, and hyssop – should be avoided during pregnancy.Essential oils high in phenols should be used with caution when applying to the skin, Sensitive areas like the throat and face should be avoided as well as the tender skin of young children. Oils high in phenols include wintergreen, anise, birch, clove, basil, tarragon, fennel, and oregano.Keep essential oils away from the eyes as their vapors may cause irritation. Do not handle contact lenses or rub the eyes with essential oils on your fingers. If essential oils accidentally get in the eyes, pour vegetable oils in the eyes to stop any burning or irritation. Do not use water as this only serves to drive the oils in faster. Essential oils may be applied on or around the ears, but don't pour essential oils directly into the ears.Those with epilepsy, high blood pressure, or who are prone to convulsions should consult a health care professional before using essential oils, and hyssop, fennel, and wild tansy should probably be avoided.Essential oils in bath water should be dispersed with a gel or liquid soap since concentrated oil tend to float on the top of water and may find their way to sensitive areas of the body.Some oils are photosensitive, so avoid direct sunlight when you have applied them to the skin. Photosensitive oils include angelica, bergamot, grapefruit, lemon, orange, tangerine, and other citrus oils.
In addition to following these basic guidelines for essential oils safety, be sure and keep your essential oils in tightly closed bottles away from the light and in cool places. This will help to preserve the potency of your oils as long as you have them.For more information about essential oils safety, see the source of these guidelines, the Essential Oils Desk Reference (4th ed.) or The Chemistry of Essential Oils by David Stewart.
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