Dangers of Essential Oils

Essential oils have some amazing medicinal and therapeutic properties if used properly, but they can also be dangerous if not used properly.

Because essential oils are made from plant extracts, the likelihood of allergic reaction is high, especially for those who are known to have hay fever or other plant based, pollen, or grass type allergies.

There is also the possibility of toxicity when overused or not used properly. It's important to note that essential oils, while having therapeutic properties, are not classified as medications and therefore are not regulated like over the counter drugs would be. Therefore, there is not a requirement to list contraindications on the labels and warnings are also not required.

If you plan to use essential oils for any purpose, including simply using them as a fragrance source, it is important to be aware of the potential dangers.

When using essential oils, whether for aromatherapy or for treating certain conditions, it is important to keep the following in mind:

Do not use essential oils directly on your skin if you are pregnant. While there are some that your doctor may discuss with you to use, unless your doctor or medical professional clearly tells you to use them, stay away from essential oils while pregnant or nursing - period.

Do not use essential oils for aromatherapy on anyone under the age of five and then use caution for essential oil aromatherapy on all children, and it is recommended that essential oils not be used directly on the skin of anyone under the age of twelve.

If using essential oils directly on the skin, a skin patch test should be performed to test for allergic reaction prior to any treatment. This can be accomplished by touching a very small amount of essential oil to the inside of the wrist and waiting 24 hours to see if there is a reaction of any kind. If the skin reacts in any way, such as turning red, blotchy, burning, itchy, swollen, etc, then do not use that particular essential oil for any reason, including aromatherapy.

Never use essential oils near sensitive skin, around the eyes, broken skin, or near mucous membranes.