Safety first – Essential Oils and Carrier Oils in Aromatherapy

As with anything that we decide to use on our bodies, eat or inhale, there are always safety factors to consider first. Therapeutic oils are no different. These oils can be used safely but it is important to know which of them are contraindicated (not safe) in certain instances.

Dilute

Never use undiluted essential oils directly on the skin. They are super concentrated and will cause a host of irritants if used in their concentrated forms. Please click on the link below for a list of suggested dilution calculations.

Click here for dilution calculations

Children

We have to be careful with children. Especially the very little ones under 10 years. Their respiratory systems are still developing and some oils can be detrimental to them. Please click on the link below for more information and a list of oils to avoid for children under 10 years, 6 years and 2 years old.

Click here for a comprehensive list

Pregnancy, breastfeeding and labor

Pregnant and breastfeeding moms must check with their doctor first before using any oils. Women in labor are advised to check for contraindications.

As an example - Clary sage oil is used to help with labor pains but this oil could also induce contractions. Folks with serious health conditions and who take prescription medication should also check with their doctor before they use any therapeutic oil. For moms who opt for a water birth. Never drop essential oils into the birthing pool. I compiled a list of oils to avoid. Please click on the link below for more information.

Click here for a comprehensive list

Medication absorption

As another example – Eucalyptus oil is excellent in an inhaler to relieve cold and flu symptoms. However, it could decrease the liver’s ability to process some medications. If you take prescription medication please do your research and talk to your doctor before using any essential oils

Sun sensitivity

Some essential oils such as bergamot, cumin, dill, and some citrus oils are phototoxic. This means that they can cause serious skin irritations and even burns if you expose your skin to the sun immediately after applying blends containing a phototoxic oil. Please click on the link below for a list of phototoxic oils and precautions.

Click here for a comprehensive list

Pets

As with humans, pets have sensitivities too. Never use an oil topically, spray a hydrosol or use a shampoo with added essential oils on your pet before checking with your veterinarian first. As an example - cinnamon, citrus, pennyroyal, peppermint, pine, sweet birch, tea tree, wintergreen, and ylang ylang are all poisonous to dogs. A drop of lavender on your dog’s bed may help to calm him down but too much could cause respiratory problems and stress. The link below offers more information and a list of oils to avoid.

Click here for a comprehensive list

United States

(If you or someone you know has been exposed to a dangerous substance, contact poison control immediately at 1-800-222-1222 or go to poisonhelp.org for assistance.)

Disclaimer:

I am not a doctor and will never prescribe any oils or blends to anyone. This blog and the information in it is a platform for me to share my knowledge and experiences with you. Please consider each oil, cream, spray and diffuser blend as unique. Also consider each user as unique. Make sure that the person who uses the product is cleared to do so by their doctor.