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Natural doesn't mean harmless.
Essential oils are highly concentrated substances, as we can deduce from the fact that is takes thousands of rose petals to produce a single drop of essential oil. That is why in aromatherapy, usually, only small quantities of essential oil are used in each application. Therefore, it is fundamental to know the toxicity of this highly active substances, to fully benefit from their wonderful properties and minimize the risk of undesired effects, often caused by negligent usages.
Here are some essential precautions to keep in mind:
* Skin Patch Test:
Apply 1 or 2 drops of undiluted essential oil into the inside of elbow or inside of wrist. After 15 minutes evaluate if any reaction occurred.
** Phototoxic essential oils - Increases sunburn reaction of skin. (Avoid sun exposure up to 6h after application):
Angelica root - All absolutes and concretes - Cumin - Lemon Verbena - Ginger - Citrus oils: Bergamot - Grapefruit - Lemon - Lime - Mandarin - Orange.
Essential oils are highly concentrated substances, as we can deduce from the fact that is takes thousands of rose petals to produce a single drop of essential oil. That is why in aromatherapy, usually, only small quantities of essential oil are used in each application. Therefore, it is fundamental to know the toxicity of this highly active substances, to fully benefit from their wonderful properties and minimize the risk of undesired effects, often caused by negligent usages.
Here are some essential precautions to keep in mind:
- Use only high quality essential oils that have been properly stored.
- People prone to allergy, asthma, with epylepsy, high blood pressure and pregnant women, should ask for professional advice, as some essential oils should not be used.
- People prone to allergy and sensitive skin, should do a skin patch test* before using oils for the first time.
- Don´t apply undiluted essential oils into the ears, nose and genital areas. For these sensitive areas, the concentration is 2 to 5%, to a maximum of 10% dilution.
- Never use essential oils in the eyes, even when diluted. If an accident occurs, wash the eyes under running water for 5 minutes, then wash the eye with whole milk. After, wick away from the eye with sweet almond oil or other vegetable oil.
- Don't use phototoxic** essential oils before sun exposure.
- For children under 12 years old, use half of the dose of essential oils than in adult preparations. For babies ask for professional advice.
- Essential oils don't dissolve in water, they float. Use a carrier that will help with dilution when using them on baths, to avoid skin sensitization.
- Keep all essential oils with a safety dropper cap and out of reach from children.
- ...
* Skin Patch Test:
Apply 1 or 2 drops of undiluted essential oil into the inside of elbow or inside of wrist. After 15 minutes evaluate if any reaction occurred.
** Phototoxic essential oils - Increases sunburn reaction of skin. (Avoid sun exposure up to 6h after application):
Angelica root - All absolutes and concretes - Cumin - Lemon Verbena - Ginger - Citrus oils: Bergamot - Grapefruit - Lemon - Lime - Mandarin - Orange.
