Follow these top 10 tips to help you begin using your oils safely.
- When storing essential oils (EOs), it’s important to keep them in a cool, dark place with lids tightly closed (and always out of reach of children). You’ll also want to keep carrier oils (like coconut, olive, vitamin e, sweet almond oil, etc.) on hand for dilution. Always use and store EOs in glass containers, since most plastic products contain chemicals that can be broken down by the oil.
- Most EOs are generally safe for use during pregnancy but need to be used with common sense. As with any health program, you may want to consult with a health care professional beforehand. A great resource is the book Gentle Babies you can get on Amazon.
- Many citrus oils are photosensitive and when applied to skin, they may cause a rash or dark pigmentation on skin exposed to UV rays or direct sunlight within 1-2 days after application.
- Keep EOs away from eyes and never put them directly into the ears. Should irritation or accidental contact with eyes occur, never use water to clear the EO (they are not water-soluble). Instead use a V6 vegetable oil complex or other carrier oil (such as coconut oil or sweet almond oil) to cleanse the area and reduce discomfort.
- Epileptics and people with high blood pressure should use extra caution when using EOs with high ketones like basil, rosemary, sage, or tansy.
- For people with allergies or sensitive skin, it’s best to test a small area (like the inside of the upper arm) then wait 30 minutes before applying to other areas. In general, the bottoms of the feet are safe for topical application.
- Direct inhalation (not the same as diffusing) can be a deep and intensive application method, particularly for respiratory support. This method should not be used more than 10-15 times throughout the day without first consulting a health care professional.
- When adding EOs to bath water, start with 1-3 drops first mixed with Epsom salt to help disperse the oil. Never use more than 10 drops in one bath. If a dispersing agent is not used, serious discomfort can be caused because the oil tends to float undiluted on top of the water.
- Pure therapeutic grade essential oils from can be used Aromatically, Topically and Internally. Check the label to see which of those ways it can be used.
- Essential oils that are generally safe for ingestion state that on the bottle. DO NOT use any Essential Oil internally that is not specifically indicated for that purpose.
*Continue researching and learning about individual oils and their uses and possible precautions. Always consult with a physician.