Essential Oils as Alternative Medicine

How to Use Essential Oils Safely
By Cathy Wong, About.com Guide
Updated December 07, 2006

About.com Health's Disease and Condition content is reviewed by our Medical Review Board

Essential oils are very concentrated and potent. Even small amounts can cause harm if used improperly. Here are my tips on how to use essential oils safely.

Do not apply undiluted essential oils directly to your skin, because they are too concentrated and may lead to a burn.

Essential oils are absorbed through the skin, so using too much can result in an overdose.

Make sure you store essential oils out of the reach of children.

Do not get essential oils in your eyes, nose, or ears. Wash your hands thoroughly after using essential oils. If working with pure essential oils, you may want to get disposable latex gloves (or latex-free alternatives) from the drug store.

Do not take essential oils internally. Even small amounts can be toxic and potentially fatal if ingested.

Before going out in the sun or to a tanning booth, avoid essential oils that increase your sensitivity to the sun, such as citrus oils (e.g. bergamot oil, grapefruit oil).

Do a patch test if you have allergies or think you might be sensitive to an essential oil. Test aromatherapy products (such as lotions or creams) by applying a small dab to your arm. For pure essential oils, add one drop in 2.5 mL (or 1/2 teaspoon) of vegetable oil and apply it to your arm. If the area turns red, or if there is burning or itchiness, wash the area and do not use that product.

Overuse of essential oils can trigger a headache or dizziness. Don't exceed recommended amounts. If you're working with essential oils (e.g. making your own lotions, candles, or bath salts) make sure you're working in a well ventilated area or take breaks to go outside.

If you have a medical condition, consult a qualified practitioner before using essential oils. Certain essential oils should not be used by people with certain conditions.

People with liver or kidney disease should only use essential oils under the guidance of a qualified practitioner. Once absorbed in the bloodstream, essential oils are eventually cleared from your body by the liver and kidneys--using essential oils excessively may injure these organs.

Consult a qualified practitioner if you are using any medication, because essential oils may interact with certain medications. For example, relaxing essential oils such as chamomile, lavender, and melissa (lemon balm) may heighten the effect of sleeping pills or sedatives.

MY THOUGHTS

i love this eucalyptus oil my sister sends from australia. it's so good. from muscle pain to insect bites to helping me sleep. it doesn't work for severe migraine but can relieve simple headache. a very good stress reliever, too.