A common misconception is that everything natural is good for health.
A thought that could well cost us dearly, especially when it comes to essential oils. Here are some tips for using them safely.
Essential oils or plant essences enjoy a good reputation. It's true that these little vials contain concentrates of effective aromatic compounds.
Like all powerful products for medical or paramedical use, essential oils have contraindications and certain precautions for use must be observed if you do not want to be the victim of side effects.
Essential oils have three main uses
1. By broadcast
In perfume diffusers, for example, to take advantage of the effects of HE diffused into the ambient air, or simply to perfume your interior.
2. Per app
Mixed or diluted, as in my homemade soap recipe.
3. By ingestion
By incorporating a few drops in a dish to improve its aroma or/and in treatment. There is generally one drop per 25 kg in adults and a maximum of 3 drops per day maximum in children under 6 years old, always diluted.
You also have to keep in mind that essential oils are not soluble in water, so you mix them with oil, alcohol or liquid honey.
To discover: 5 Good Reasons to Use Essential Oils EVERY Day.
They must be stored upright, in a dry place, protected from light without variation in temperature and out of reach of children.
When you use essential oils without respecting the precautions for use, you run the risk of photosensitization or convulsions. They can be irritating to the skin, allergenic, neurotoxic, toxic to the kidneys, the liver...
Some of these complications can lead to serious cases of poisoning. They mainly concern fragile people, in particular babies and children, the elderly and pregnant or breastfeeding women.
We therefore redouble our vigilance when using them and above all we seek advice from an aromatherapist or a doctor.
- It is strictly forbidden to use essential oils during the first 3 months of pregnancy. In general, during pregnancy, use must be under medical supervision. Because with the exception of a few essential oils, most of them are not compatible with pregnancy.
- We also advise against ingestion of essential oil for pregnant and nursing women, young children and the elderly. And some oils should not be ingested at all.
- In direct application, we pay great attention to the mucous membranes, to the eyes. Essential oils can cause allergic reactions in sensitive people. After use, wash your hands thoroughly. Some oils are dermocaustic.
- Never overheat an essential oil. Undesirable or dangerous effects are noted. In addition, essential oils lose their properties when they are overheated.
- They are not recommended for animals, especially cats.
To discover: Essential Oils:16 Things You Absolutely Need to Know Before Using Them.
Here is a non-exhaustive list of the most common essential oils to use with care.
• Eucalyptus :do not use on young children. Always diluted in case of external application. High risk of seizures.
• Mint, thyme, cinnamon and the clove: always diluted. Risk of skin irritation.
• Citrus essences, the bergamot and angelica: are photosensitizing. Do not apply before sun exposure.
• Lemon balm, Ceylon cinnamon and mint: can cause allergic reactions. Always perform a wrist test by mixing one drop in a tablespoon of sunflower oil.
This list is not complete. If you have any doubts, ask your doctor or aromatherapist who will be able to advise you.
Aromatherapists are professionals in the use of essential oils. I cannot advise you enough to consult them for an initiation and learning in the rules.
After all this, some of you may say to yourself:"essential oils, never again!" And that would be a shame.
They also have multiple virtues and benefits , if used correctly.
To discover: 33 Amazing Uses of Peppermint Essential Oil.
For the home, they are perfect as a deodorizer or air freshener. In cosmetics, they are used to perfume or to provide specific properties.
For example, tea tree essence is really perfect for blemished skin.
They are also effective in taking care of the little everyday hassles. Lavandin is a recognized anti-lice treatment and the essential oil of thyme helps treat a cold.
To discover: Thyme Essential Oil:Its Benefits and Uses to Know.
In the kitchen, they enhance dishes and desserts in an original and delicious way...
