There is no doubt that essential oils are very powerful compounds, and some safety measures must be kept in mind when having them around the house.
Following the guidelines below will help keep the use of essential oils safe for you and those around you.
Never take essential oils internally unless so advised by your medical practitioner.
Keep essential oils out of the reach of children.
Always dilute essential oils with a suitable carrier oil before applying it to the skin.
If you are pregnant, lactating or suffer from epilepsy, hypertension (high blood pressure), have cancer or liver damage, or any other medical condition, only use essential oils under guidance of a qualified aroma practitioner/aroma therapist.
Use essential oils with great care on children.
If you are using a new un-tried essential oil, first do a skin patch test before using extensively.
If irritation occurs with a specific oil or formula, discontinue the use of such oil or formula.
Take care not to get any essential oils into your eyes or on to any mucus membranes.
A wise practice is to always wash your hands after handling pure undiluted essential oils.
Some oils are not indicated for use while you are pregnant, due to the stimulating effect it has on the urinary system and uterus. Using such oils during the early months of pregnancy can cause contractions and premature delivery.
When nursing babies care must be taken with your selection of essential oils to prevent skin transference to the baby.
When using essential oils is would be better to abstain from using alcohol, or if inevitable, a small glass of white wine at mealtime can be consumed.
Check for any interaction between medication and essential oils, since some essential oils can interfere with certain prescription medication.
When using essential oils that cause sun sensitivity people should take care to avoid expose to the sun.
People with a sensitive skin should always perform a skin patch test before using untried essential oils.
Certain oils have been banned for use in aromatherapy, and although it may be used in other applications, it may not be used in aromatherapy massage etc.
