Aromatherapy Guidelines for Proper Use

In some ways, aromatherapy oils must be treated as medicines. Because they are so pungent, they should be handled with care. This article will inform you of some basic safety precautions that should always be taken. Do bear in mind, however, that these are just some of the most basic guidelines. ask a qualified aromatherapist if you have any questions.

Never apply an undiluted essential oil directly to the skin. Because essential oils are so concentrated, application to bare skin will inevitably result in irritation, if not worse. If you wish to rub an essential oil on your skin, you need to first dilute it with a carrier oil (carrier oils are the more fatty, vegetable based oils. Since essential oils are soluble in carrier oils, they make a great aromatherapeutic team).

Different people react differently to essential oils. Before using an essential oil preparation as a rub, try it out on a small test patch of skin. If it produces no irritability there, it is probably safe to use. Even then, avoid using the preparation on sensitive body parts.

Keep all essential oils out of the reach of children, unless a qualified adult is there to supervise them. If children are left alone with essential oils, they can do great damage to themselves. Ingesting many essential oils can prove fatal, and children will be particularly tempted to drink oils like citrus, since these can smell like familiar beverages.

Be moderate in your dosages. In aromatherapy, less really is more. Always remember that essential oils are very strong, and only the tiniest amount is often sufficient. Never use two drops if one will do; much damage can be done by essential oil overdoses. Remember, like all good things, aromatherapy should be used in moderation. You don't want to overdo it.

Check and see if the oil is suitable for home usage. Many essential oils can be dangerous, even lethal, if used improperly. If you're ever in doubt, make sure to verify the usability of an oil with an expert aromatherapist. Some oils are so strong that even many qualified aromatherapy practitioners refrain from using them. If you're pregnant or have high blood pressure, you'll need to be especially careful in the oils you use.

Like all oils, essential oils are flammable, so you probably won't want to store them in any place where there's a possibility of fire. Make sure you keep them away from candles or any other type of open flame.