These are general rules when it comes to using any essential oils. These sets of rules are what trained aromatherapists and essential oil therapists recommend and follow.
SAFE USE OF ESSENTIAL OILS
- Consider diffusion and inhalation as the most efficient and economical ways to enjoy essential oils and essential oil blends.
- Use only pure essential oils or blends from a reputable source.
- Avoid contact with eyes and mucous membranes.
- Do not use undiluted essential oils on the skin.
- Intended for external and aromatic use only.
- Do not take essential oils orally.
- Keep all essential oils out of the reach of children.
- Consult a qualified professional regarding questions involving children, pets, pregnancy, medical conditions, and medications.
- The use of essential oils should not be viewed as a substitute for professional care. If any health problem arises, seek medical advice.
- Use cold-pressed citrus oils with caution, as photosensitivity may result.
- Test for sensitivities.
- Discontinue use if any adverse reactions occur, such as skin reddening, dry skin, or itchiness.
- Store essential oils and blends safely, in a cool, dark place, bottles upright and securely capped.
- SUGGESTED LEVELS OF USE FOR ESSENTIAL OILS AND ESSENTIAL OIL BLENDS: In a diffuser add 5 to 7 drops; in massage add 2% essential oil to a quality carrier oil.
RECOMMENDED BOOKS
There is much written about the safe use of essential oils, and it can be difficult for the beginner as well as the serious student to discern without a chemistry or research background.
For the serious student, I recommend that you educate yourself about the properties, appropriate uses, cautions, and contraindications of any essential oil you plan to use.
A lot has been written and said about essential oils ranging from the medical and scientific to the metaphysical. These books were recommended to me by very well researched and educated individuals as being the most helpful, most truthful information available. Found new or used, they contain information we consider to be the best currently available.
- Jane Buckle, PhD, RN
CLINICAL AROMATHERAPY – Essential Oils in Healthcare – 3rd Edition - E Joy Bowles, PhD
THE CHEMISTRY OF AROMATHERAPEUTIC OILS – 3rd Edition - E. Joy Bowles, PhD
THE A TO Z OF ESSENTIAL OILS – What They Are, Where They Come From, How They Work - Kathi Keville and Mindy Green
AROMATHERAPY – A Complete Guide to the Healing Art – 2nd Edition - Brian M. Lawrence
THE ANTIMICROBIAL/BIOLOGICAL ACTIVITY OF ESSENTIAL OILS – The Journal of Essential Oil Research - Andrew Pengelly
THE CONSTITUENTS OF MEDICINAL PLANTS – An introduction to the chemistry and therapeutics of herbal medicine – 2nd Edition - Robert Tisserand and Rodney Young
ESSENTIAL OIL SAFETY – 2nd Edition - Mark A. Webb
BUSH SENSE – Australian Essential Oils & Aromatic Compounds - Robbi Zeck ND
THE BLOSSOMING HEART – Aromatherapy for Healing and Transformation
