Essential Oil Series: Are Essential Oils Safe?
It's a common experience for someone to be so excited about their new oils that they want to use them for everything and on everyone but hold on there tiger, safety first. Just like the we love sunlight for its ability to help us synthesize Vitamin D, we are also very aware of the harm it can do from over exposure. Because oils are so effective and potent (which is why we love and use them), we really need to know how to use and not overuse them. 1-2 drops is enough, we don't need to dump on the whole bottle.There are a few other points to consider to make your entry into essential oil life go more smoothly. I happen to know first-hand how being uneducated about oils can disrupt your journey into a more natural and healthy lifestyle. Let's just say I ended up with a burning, red face because I didn't know what a 'hot' oil was and that I should've have used it in a steam room. OUCH!
Lucky for you, you can be forewarned. Here are some common questions people ask.
Can I Put the Oils Anywhere? ______________________________________________________
Normally if you are applying oil topically then we apply it to a targeted site on the body. But you should NEVER put oils directly into your eyes or your ears. The sensitive skin inside of your mouth might be more easily irritated by undiluted oils so be mindful of this before your first use. A good place to start is on the bottoms of the feet or along the spine until you know if you have any sensitivities to the oils. Speaking of dilution...
Why Should I Dilute My Oils? What is a Carrier Oil? ___________________________________
Essential oils are very potent so we only need to apply 1-2 drops to get the benefit it offers. One drop doesn't go very far when you try to rub it onto your body so we use a carrier oil that helps to “carry” our essential oil onto and into our skin. Our favorite is doTERRA’s fractionated coconut oil, but other options are olivie oil, avocado oil, jojoba oil, almond oil, cold pressed coconut oil, or any pure vegetable oil The benefits of using a carrier oil are:
-increases surface area of application
-decreases your risk for sensitivities to the pure oils (especially important in babies)
-gives you a base to create your own blends by mixing your favorites together
-helps avoid wasting so much of your precious essential oil
What if I Get Some in My Eye? ______________________________________________________
My husband could tell you about this one. We know that oil and water do not mix so please do not try to wash off with water. It will only push the oil in deeper away from the water. You will want to create a larger area for the essential oil to disperse into; so rub ONLY a carrier oil over your eyes and face to dilute the essential oil back out of your precious eyes. Your vision might be a little blurred for a bit because of the carrier oil but it will be back to normal soon enough!Which Oils Should I Avoid Using on Baby? __________________________________________
The National Alliance of Hollistic Aromatherapy lists these oils as irritating or caustic to the skin:
-cinnamon bark -clove bud -citronella -cumin -lemongrass -thyme -oregano -cassia-
There is so much overlap with different oils offering similar benefits, so it is a good idea to avoid applying these oils to young babies and using milder, gentler options. These oils can still be used confidently on ourselves, as long as we dilute them with a carrier oil of our choice. Test them on a small area your skin for your initial use. When you join our team, you get access to our private Facebook Community that is a wealth of knowledge to find the oils for the concerns you have.
Are Essential Oils Safe During Pregnancy and Breastfeeding? ____________________________
It is important to find a healthcare provider who is knowledgeable and will support you in the use of complementary and alternative medicine. As with any product, your midwife or physician should be aware of and approve your use of specific essential oils. The skin is much more sensitive and permeable during pregnancy, so be mindful of always diluting your oils well before application. Some oils that are good to avoid during pregnancy, even diluted, are clary sage, myrrh, and any blends containing these oils. These oils can promote uterine contractions and are best saved for use during actual labor, when delivery is intended. The safe use of oils during this beautiful time can be a natural and effective way to balance mood and reduce anxiety.Should I Avoid the Sun After Applying Essential Oils? __________________________________
Yes and No. Certain oils can react with sunlight when applied to the skin and then exposed to direct UV rays. Make sure to always dilute these oils well, apply them to an area that is not exposed to the sun, or wait 24 hours before spending any amount of time soaking up its warmth! Oils that are considered phototoxic are: lemon, grapefruit, bergamot, lime, cumin, and any blends containing these.
Can I Use Essential Oils in the Bath? _________________________________________________
Absolutely! A bath is a great way to use your essential oils. But just like some of our other cautions, never add an oil that is 'hot', or caustic to skin in your bath water. Always apply your oils to some kind of carrier before adding to your running water. I love epsom salt but vegetable glycerin or any shower gel/bubble bath that you already use and love, preferably unscented, can be used as well. A good amount to use as you learn your sensitivity levels would be 2-3 drops!
Can Essential Oils Counteract Prescription Medicine? __________________________________
Just like you should speak to your Dr. or Midwife about essential oil usage during pregnancy or breastfeeding; you should definitely consult your physician regarding any reactions that could occur, especially if the medication to which you are referring is vital to your livelihood. There are a couple that truly stand out, such as wintergreen oil being avoided by those taking blood thinners, and being mindful that tetracyclines can make the skin more sensitive to citrus oil + sunlight reaction. Most western medicine physicians will have limited knowledge when it comes to essential oils, so seeking out the opinion of a holistic doctor or registered aromatherapist is always encouraged. It never hurts to do a little research of your own as well.
All Set? Feeling confident to begin using essential oils? I hope so. Remember that one of the best benefits of joining our team is being connected to a huge community with so much knowledge and the resources to be successful in your natural wellness journey. Click HERE if you are ready to take the plunge into essential oils. And please leave me a comment if you have any specific questions.
Read the other installments of the Essential Oil Series.
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