Essential Oil Cautions

Essential oils are highly concentrated liquids that can be helpful if used carefully. The following are basic guidelines and it is best to consult a trained aromatherapy practitioner if you are in doubt regarding the proper use of essential oils. 

• Read and follow label instructions and warnings. 
• Do not ingest essential oils without consulting a qualified aromatherapy practitioner. 
• Avoid contact with eyes and mucus membranes. Flush with olive oil in case of contact. DO NOT flush with water.
• Do not apply undiluted essential oils directly to the skin. There are exceptions to this precaution, such as Tea Tree or Lavender, but the decision to apply undiluted oils should be made by experienced aromatherapy users and practitioners.
• Bathwater forces oils deeper into the tissues. For best results, dilute the Essential Oil in unscented body gel or shampoo and then add to the bathwater.
• If you have ANY medical condition or are pregnant or nursing, use oils only under the proper guidance of a qualified aromatherapy practitioner.
• Fennel, hyssop, rosemary and all types of sage oils should not be used by people with high blood pressure.
• A skin patch test should be conducted on a small skin area to determine skin sensitivity prior to using an oil for the first time. 
  • To do this, place a small amount of the diluted essential oil (never use essential oils undiluted on the skin) on the inside of your elbow and apply a band-aid. Wait 24 hours to see if there is any form of reaction. Even if a particular essential oil is not known to cause irritation, this step should be taken.
• Avoid strong sunlight or sun beds after topically applying essential oils, particularly citrus oils, which can be photosensitive.
• It is safest to consult a qualified aromatherapy practitioner before using oils for children.
• If you experience redness, itching, swelling burning or irritation while using essential oils, discontinue use.
• Take a periodic break from using essential oils. Use oils for six days and then rest for a day, or use oils for three weeks and then rest a week.
• Avoid applying essential oils immediately after perspiring or using a sauna.
• Store essential oils away from extreme cold, heat, light and dampness.
• Be sure your essential oils are tightly closed.
• Keep essential oils away from children.

• Essential Oils are flammable. Do not drop essential oils on top of burning candles or place them near open flames.