Over the last few years, the use of essential oils has become widespread in societies all over the world because of the numerous health benefits that people say they have. Nevertheless, it is crucial to note that not all essential oils are safe to use, and there are some precautions that one needs to be aware of when using them. Here are some guidelines when providing essential oils.
Do Your Research
Before using an essential oil, research it thoroughly to understand:Before using an essential oil, research it thoroughly to understand:
- The possible health benefits and risks that are associated with the use of marijuana are not completely clear although there are some positive effects which include:
- Recommended dilution rates
- Some of the manifestation and effects of the existence of the disease as well as interaction with drugs or other diseases
Some of the regular oils such as lavender and tea tree oil are safe for usage if applied appropriately. However, if oils are misused, then they can result in toxicity or irritation. Knowing them helps you to use them appropriately which is made possible by the homework you do.
Take Time When Using New Oils
In the first instance of using any new essential oil you have not used before, it is recommended that you should be very careful. Before applying it all over your skin it is advisable to first apply a small quantity of it externally on your skin as a test to see whether it will cause any skin reaction or not. As a rule, 1-2 drops of essential oil are added to a teaspoon of the carrier oil, e. g. coconut or olive oil and applied to the inner side of the arm. The lack of irritation after 24 hours may mean that the particular oil is not irritating or at least not severely irritating. It is advisable to start with small quantities and observe the result for any signs of a reaction.
Dilute Properly
Basically, the majority of the essential oils should be used safely by being diluted appropriately. Essential oils are highly concentrated and used in their pure form which makes them to cause irritation on the skin if applied directly. Meanwhile, water does not mix well with essential oils; this means that it cannot act as a good solvent for essential oils. But it should be blended into what is termed as the carrier oil base which can be coconut, olive, jojoba or almond oils. Essential oil blend ratio typically ranges from a minimum 12 drops per one fluid ounce of carrier oil. Refer to oil dosages for children by age below under “Use with Caution. ” If oil is diluted too weak, effectiveness may be compromised, and if diluted too strong, risks will be heightened.
Do Skin Patch Tests
Besides, making sure one dilutes oils appropriately, it is good practice to first try any oil on a small part of skin before applying it all over the body. Select a relatively harmless area, like the inside of the arm, and use a quarter-size amount of the oil mixed with a carrier oil. However, if the skin does not turn red, develop any rashes, or experience any adverse reactions within the next 24 hours, the oil may be safe for general use on the skin. But if it does happen, wash the skin with Running water, and never use that oil Again.
Look For Pure Oils
Ensure that any of the oils that you are buying have a label that reads 100% pure, therapeutic grade or food grade. Some impure oils may be blended with other products that may include solvents that are utilized in the extraction or distillation of the oil. These can cause skin irritation or pose some harm to the internal body organs if ingested. The reputable brands will make the indication of purity and lack of additives. ”
Don’t Ingest Every Oil
Some oils may be ingested safely and may be helpful for various reasons, such as if you have indigestion, you use the peppermint oil orally for digestive purposes or if you have an immune issue, use the right oil orally for immune purposes, but not all oils can be ingested. There exist oils such as winter green that are for external use and ingesting them may prove very dangerous. For internal use, it is recommended only to use the oils that have a special indication of food contact and learn about the dosage. Use a drop in water diluted to recommended concentration to avoid any nasty side effects. Avoid intake of any oils if you have any health complications without the advisement of a doctor.
Watch for Photosensitivity
Some of citrus oils including bergamot oil, grapefruit, lemon and lime oils cause the skin to become very sensitive to sunburn and pigmentation changes when it is exposed to the sun. Do not put on these types of photosensitive oils before you go out to be exposed to the sun for an extended period because they interact with UV light. Internal ingestion could also trigger the burning of the skin in a manner that would make it more sensitive than normal. It is safe to use these types of essential oils but it is recommended that one use responsible sun precautions.
Use Care When Breastfeeding
It is advised that nursing mothers should exercise a lot of caution and seek their doctor’s advice regarding the usage of different important oils. Due to the fact that compounds that are consumed get into the breast milk and are consumed by the infant, oils that are toxic when ingested may be applicable here. Suggestions include also refraining from the use of peppermint, eucalyptus, rosemary, thyme, wintergreen and ylang ylang oils especially while breastfeeding. Fortunately, there are many oils that can be safe and even beneficial for a mother and her baby during this period and may even give a soothing effect.
Use Caution with Children
Strength of dilution must change in proportion to the age of child when applying essential oils. According to the National Association for Holistic Aromatherapy (NAHA):According to the National Association for Holistic Aromatherapy (NAHA):
- Infant: 0. 25% to 0. 5% dilution – 3 to 6 drops of essential oil per 1 ounce of carrier: Ages 2–6
- Children 6-14 years: 0,5 to 1% dilution – 6 to 12 drops of essential oil to one ounce of the carrier.
- Ages 14+: For a 1% to 2% dilution rate, add 12 to 24 drops of the diluted blend per one ounce of carrier.
In the case of babies below 24 months, the use of essential oil should not exceed 1-3 drops in total, adding gentle essential oil such as lavender in 1 ounce of carrier oil as prescribed by the baby’s pediatrician or specialist.
While it is known that many people are likely to gain something out of essential oils when it comes to issues of health, others find that they may actually be intolerant of some of them. Discontinue use if skin becomes red, itchy, or uncomfortable, rinse skin thoroughly with water. If it is particularly bad, apply a cold pack and hydrocortisone cream if needed. If experiencing any unpleasant side-effects such as irritation of the gastrointestinal tract or a headache, stop its internal use. It is also important to note that not all individuals will be able to utilize each oil or benefit from them in the same manner. Be very cautious when you are using oils and even the responses of your family members towards them.
The label should contain a warning saying ‘Keep Oils out of Reach of Children’.
Like with vitamins, medicines and any other concentrated supplements, essential oils should be stored beyond the reach of young children – toddlers, in particular. Some types of oil should not be ingested and this may warrant the use of a poison control center or an emergency physician.
Use Proper Storage
Essential oils have a shelf-life which is reduced by heat, oxygen and light exposure, which reduces the impact of oils. It is also important for safety reasons so that the oils do not spoil and are not contaminated in any way. Oils should be kept in tinted glass bottles because of vulnerability to light and should be stored in cool dark places. Check for faded color on clothes, or the smell becomes flat or off. But if oxidation has taken place, it is advisable to dispose the oil because essential oils have a shelf life of 1-2 years generally.
Taking time to learn about the characteristics of each individual essential oil, always practicing responsible usage and dilution, doing skin tests on your body and observing your reactions to them will allow you to safely utilize these potentially beneficial substances in your daily lifestyle. However, do not let your guard down and remain cautious with this fantastic and natural healing technique. It is important not to assume that something being ‘essential’ for a product is not ‘harmless’ or ‘benign’. When used in the right manner, essential oils remain incredible additions to your life without leading to side effects. These are safety tips and perceptual measures to be observed to ensure everyone has healthy experience with the essential oils.