Essential Oil Safety

Essential oils are highly concentrated n their pure state and they should not be used undiluted directly on to the skin. Therefore, a natural medium is required for an aromatherapy massage treatment. This medium is a vegetable oil which is referred to as the carrier, base or fixed oil.

Essential oils are extremely powerful substances that if not used correctly can cause serious problems. Below is a list of the most common situations when oils should not be used. If you have any doubt about in using essential oil, please consult a doctor or qualified aroma therapist.

Essential oils are perfectly safe when these guidelines are followed:

Pregnancy
High Blood Pressure
Skin Irritants
Photo sensitizers
Epilepsy

These oils may pose a risk to a developing baby

Basil
Clary Sage
Hyssop
Juniper
Marjoram
Myrrh
Sage
Fennel
Peppermint
Rose
Rosemary
Thyme

The following oils should not be used by anyone with high blood pressure

Hyssop
Rosemary
Sage
Thyme

These oils should be used with caution if you have sensitive skin

Lemon
Lemongrass
Lemon Verbena
Melissa
Thyme
Peppermint
Tea-Tree
Fennel

These oils make your skin more sensitive to the suns rays

Angelica
Bergamot
Cumin
Lemon
Lime
Orange
Verbena

The following oils can trigger an attack of epilepsy in someone suffering from the disease

Fennel
Hyssop
Sage
Rosemary

I hope this is enough information to get you started on your journey to natural healing with pure essential oils. Aromatherapy and essential oils are a part of our daily life in my household. When I first introduced my family to essential oils and aromatherapy they honestly thought I was crazy! Now that they have tried essential oils, they ask me for blends all the time. My husband likes me to burn a bedtime blend every night before we turn in for the evening as he is one to toss and turn a lot. In an effort to get some sleep myself, I accommodate him graciously.