What should I pay attention to when using essential oils?

By understanding the taboos of essential oils, you can better utilize the strengths of essential oils and avoid troubles caused by misuse.


Skin sensitivity test to essential oils

Before using a new essential oil, it is best to do a skin test to avoid allergies. Simple skin test method: add 1 drop of essential oil (1% dilution) to 10ml of base oil, apply it behind the ear, elbow bend or inner wrist, and leave it on the skin for 24 hours, do not wash, if there is no redness, swelling, An irritating response indicates acceptance of the essential oil.


You can experiment with up to 6 essential oils at a time, but you must keep track of which oils are applied to where to determine which is safe.


Because the molecules of essential oils are extremely small, they can easily penetrate into the body through the skin, so massage with essential oils can achieve good results. Pregnant women can use sweet almond oil first, and then add essential oils after the fourth month (note: the type of essential oil needs to be matched with a professional aromatherapist).

Pure essential oils usually cannot be applied directly to the skin, but must be diluted with a base oil before they can be used directly on the skin.

At present, only lavender essential oil and tea tree essential oil can be used in direct contact with the skin in small amounts.


In addition to not directly contacting the skin or touching the eyes, if the above conditions occur, immediately flush the eyes with plenty of water and seek medical attention in time. And it is best not to use the same essential oil every day, and use different types of essential oils alternately, preferably every two weeks.


Precautions for the use of essential oils for special groups

Pregnant women: Women in the early stages of pregnancy cannot use hormonal or menstrual essential oils, because the use of these essential oils will lead to menstruation, that is, menstrual cramps. As for whether it will cause miscarriage, there is no evidence yet.


Babies from 0 to 6 months can use a limited variety of essential oils. You can add 1d lavender or 1d Roman chamomile or orange essential oil to 10ml of sweet almond oil, massage your stomach, or use indoor aromatherapy.


Essential oil knowledge

Citrus essential oils (such as bergamot, lemon, sweet orange, etc.) are usually photosensitizing, and it is best not to use them during the day, especially bergamot will last for several days, so do not directly add water to bath.