Since Essential Oils are natural, there aren’t any SAFETY precautions to worry about, right?
Unfortunately, this incorrect line of thinking has led to improper use of oils and, yes, negative reactions and accidents. Just because something is natural doesn’t mean it’s safe for all situations.
Essential Oils are so powerful and concentrated that you should always practice safe use. If you have a negative reaction, this could lead to you (and those around you) no longer wanting to use oils. Missing out on all their benefits would be a shame.
Here are a few of the basics along with the reasoning behind each safety tip:
DILUTION
To dilute an Essential Oil, simply mix a couple drops of oil with a teaspoon to a tablespoon of carrier oil. A CARRIER OIL is a nut-or-vegetable-based oil that helps dilute the Essential Oil. This is especially important for those with sensitive skin as well as children and elderly people.
Reactions to some undiluted Essential Oils include:
• Skin irritation
• Redness
• Rashes
• Itchiness
WHY DILUTION?
• Essential Oils are VERY powerful.
• Diluting oils does NOT decrease their effectiveness, but it DOES reduce the risk of your skin reacting to the oil.
• Carrier oils have their own benefits for the skin. Incorporating them into your Essential Oil usage ensures that you will get these additional benefits as well.
• Essential Oils are very volatile, which means they evaporate quickly. Carrier oils help slow down this process so the Essential Oils have more time to permeate the skin.
• Most carrier oils are less expensive than Essential Oils; therefore, diluting your oils helps you save money.
PHOTOTOXICITY
Beyond dilution, there is one more skin safety rule you should always follow regarding Essential Oils. Some oils, mainly Citruses, can cause a reaction when applied to the skin and then exposed to UV rays, including the sun or tanning beds. This reaction can be mild, moderate, or even severe and includes redness or rashes on the skin, sunburn, blistering, and even scarring.
Diluting phototoxic oils can greatly reduce the risk of a phototoxic reaction, but it doesn’t negate it completely, so it’s best to avoid exposing skin to sunlight for at least twelve hours (some aromatherapists recommend longer) after applying a phototoxic oil.
WHY does phototoxicity occur? Components called furocoumarins are to blame. Because of the chemical structure of these furocoumarins, their ability to affect skin cell DNA, and the free radicals that are left behind due to the reaction, use of oils that contain these components leave the skin more vulnerable to the sun’s rays.
OILS WITH PHOTOTOXIC CONCERNS
• Bergamot
• Lime (cold pressed)
• Lemon
• Grapefruit
• Cumin
This is not an exhaustive list. Don’t forget that phototoxic concerns also apply to any blends that use these oils. When in doubt, check your bottle’s label for UV warnings.
SPECIAL CIRCUMSTANCES
If you are pregnant, nursing, or taking medication, you should check with the doctor or aromatherapist as to which Essential Oils are contraindicated.
QUESTION – DID ANY OF THESE SAFETY TIPS SURPRISE YOU?
