What You Need to Know About Essential Oils
Everything you need to know about essential oils and aromatherapy. (Photo: Henry Leutwyler)
While we all could use more time to stop and smell the roses, their thorns remind us to take caution — even of beauty in nature. Whether they’re in your garden or being used in aromatherapy, plants are highly beneficial when used safely, yet can cause allergies and skin irritation if the following precautions aren’t taken. Purchasing good quality, plant extracted essential oils is key. Make sure to check the label. if the words perfume or fragrance oil is on the container, then the oils contained in the bottle are not pure or real essential oils. The manufacture should always list the following information: common name and Latin binomial, growing method, country of origin, and method of production. If you’re diving into the world of essential oils and aromatherapy, take note of the tips and recommendations below.
The Basics: Storage
Keep essential oils stored away from sunlight and moisture to keep their potency.
Essential oils are extremely concentrated and can remove nail polish and even melt plastic.
Oils and carrier oils (olive, coconut, jojoba oil) can stain clothing, towels and furniture
Stick to glass or ceramic containers to mix oils.
Aromatherapy products do have expiration dates. Check the bottle.
If the aromatherapy oil is in a plastic bottle or clear bottle, you should not purchase it.
The Basics: Application
Never apply oils directly to your skin; If you’re new to using essential oils the National Associate for Holistic Aromatherapy recommends a 2.5% dilution, which equates to 15 drops of essential oil per ounce of carrier oil.
Unless you’re including the oil as part of a facial treatment, the best places to apply them are on your pulse points, temples, feet, or chest.
You can also use oils to make a pillow or body spray by combining 1 ounce of witch hazel or vodka with 15 drops of essential oil and 3 ounces of water.
Citrus oils can increase sun sensitivity; avoid the sun for 12 hours after applying.
Never take oils by mouth unless prescribed by a trained professional.
Pregnant women, people with severe asthma, infants, and people with a history of allergies should only use essential oils under the guidance of a trained professional and with the full knowledge of your physician
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