Essential oils have become incredibly popular, and it’s easy to see why—they offer powerful natural benefits. However, their potency means they must be used with care. There’s a lot of general advice out there that isn’t always safe.
I’m a huge fan of essential oils and use them almost every day, mainly in diluted forms for natural beauty and cleaning products. Sometimes, I’ll use them for their aroma or therapeutic properties. Given how strong they are, though, I make sure my family and I use them safely. Here are some things to keep in mind:
Did you know that essential oils have highly concentrated properties derived from plants? Just a drop of peppermint essential oil equals around 26-28 cups of peppermint tea. This shows how powerful they are. While essential oils are useful, they should be used wisely and in safe amounts. If you wouldn’t drink that much tea, consider the implications before consuming that equivalent in essential oils.
I dilute essential oils in my beauty recipes, like lotion bars and facial oils. “Diluted” is the key here. Most essential oils shouldn’t be applied directly to the skin without guidance from a professional. They can easily penetrate the skin and enter the bloodstream due to their small molecular size. Generally, oils should be diluted in a carrier oil, like coconut or almond oil, in a 3-5% solution. That’s about 3-5 drops of essential oil per teaspoon of carrier oil and even less for babies or children.
Using essential oils undiluted can cause skin irritation or allergic reactions. In some cases, people may develop a permanent sensitivity to an oil if used undiluted on broken skin. Though oils like lavender, rose, and chamomile are usually safe on the skin, I still dilute them, as they are costly to use undiluted.
I always test a diluted essential oil on a small area of my skin first. While some oils might be okay undiluted for those who aren’t sensitive, it’s wise to consult a professional first.
On a personal note, I once had a negative experience. A massage therapist used essential oils undiluted on my back without asking, which resulted in a headache and skin irritation. This experience highlighted the importance of proper use and certifications in aromatherapy.
Be cautious and do thorough research before using oils undiluted. Citrus oils, for instance, can make the skin more sensitive to the sun, leading to burns or discoloration.
Internally, essential oils are extremely potent, sometimes equating to dozens of cups of herbal tea. They should only be ingested when absolutely necessary and under professional guidance. These oils have strong antibacterial properties that could disrupt gut bacteria, which is crucial for overall health.
Though essential oils are generally recognized as safe for food and cosmetic use, not all have been studied for internal use. Being labeled as safe doesn’t mean they should be consumed in large quantities.
Pregnancy and nursing require careful consideration, as essential oils can affect hormones and reach the baby. I advise using aromatherapy or very diluted oils for skin care while avoiding internal use when expecting or nursing.
Children are particularly sensitive to essential oils. It’s important not to give them internally or undiluted. They need more diluted applications than adults. Oils like lavender and chamomile are safer, but always do a patch test first and consult a doctor. Some oils have caused seizures in children, so be extra cautious.
Pets, like children, can also be sensitive. It’s also important not to store essential oils in plastic containers, as they can degrade plastics. I use glass bottles for this reason.
Despite the warnings, essential oils are fantastic natural remedies when used carefully. I highly value them and make sure to research every oil thoroughly. Consulting a trained professional can be extremely helpful. Always ensure your essential oils are organic and high-quality.
When used properly, essential oils can be a safe and effective natural remedy. I personally reserve undiluted or internal use for specific needs and avoid such use on children or during pregnancy. What essential oils do you use? Have you ever had any negative effects from their use?
