safety
Using Essential Oils Safely & Responsibly
Essential oils are the the concentrated extracts of plants. And while they do hold a multitude of potential benefits, there are some potential risks to using essential oils in your beauty, wellness and cleaning regimens.
Diffusion/Aromatherapy
Using essential oils with a diffuser via aromatherapy is a great way to obtain the potential benefits of essential oils. Some oils can cause irritation after extended use, so it's recommended to always diffuse oils intermittently (30-60 min on/off) in a well-ventilated area, following the instructions provided on the diffuser.
Topical Use
When using essential oils topically, it's important to always dilute them before use. A general rule of thumb is to maintain the dilution of your essential oils less than 4% essential oil to carrier oil. There are some oils that you may be able to use topically without dilution, however we do not recommend it.
Children and the elderly are especially susceptible to essential oils and should not use stronger than a 0.5% dilution, topically.
Dilution
A 0.5% dilution can be obtained by adding 3 drops of essential oil to 1 ounce (30ml) of carrier oil.
A 1% dilution can be obtained by adding 6 drops of essential oil to 1 ounce (30ml) of carrier oil.
A 2% dilution can be obtained by adding 12 drops of essential oil to 1 ounce (30ml) of carrier oil
A 4% dilution can be obtained by adding 24 drops of essential oil to 1 ounce (30ml) of carrier oil.
Patch Testing
Using a small amount of diluted oils on a small patch of skin on your forearm is a good way to gauge if you may have an allergy or adverse reaction to the oil.
Internal Use
You should never use essential oils internally unless under the guidance of a trained professional. We do not condone ingesting or the internal use of essential oils.
Essential Oils and Pets
Some pets are susceptible to certain essential oils, and should not be used on or around them. Examples of these are bay, cinnamon, clove, lemongrass, peppermint and thyme. Always do your research.
General Safety Guidelines
Essential oils can cause skin sensitivity, rash and adverse reaction. You should never use pure essential oils undiluted on the skin. Keep essential oils out of reach of children. Consult a doctor if pregnant or under care of a physician before use. Avoid contact with the ears and sensitive areas. Do not ingest.
Resources:
https://www.healthline.com/health/are-essential-oils-safe
https://info.achs.edu/blog/aromatherapy-essential-oil-dangers-and-safety
https://www.hopkinsallchildrens.org/ACH-News/General-News/Are-Essential-Oils-Safe-for-Children
https://tisserandinstitute.org/safety-guidelines/
https://www.webmd.com/beauty/news/20180813/essential-oils-promise-help-but-beware-the-risks
https://www.takingcharge.csh.umn.edu/explore-healing-practices/aromatherapy/are-essential-oils-safe