Safety of Using Essential Oils

Aromatherapy is a complex field that requires sound knowledge and a responsible approach. The safety of essential oils and best practices for their use are based on scientific research and years of clinical experience with aromatherapy. These principles allow you to fully utilize the therapeutic properties of oils while minimizing the risk of adverse reactions.

Key Safety Aspects in Aromatherapy

1. Consultation with an Expert – The Key to Conscious Use

Before using essential oils, it's a good idea to consult a professional aromatherapist or doctor. Each oil has a unique chemical composition that can affect the body in different ways.

Robert Pappas's research emphasizes the precise determination of essential oil quality through analysis of its chemical composition. His research indicates that the purity and quality of an oil are crucial to its effectiveness and safety.

2. Dilution – Precise Proportions for Safety

Improperly diluted oils can cause allergic reactions and irritation. Recommended concentrations are listed below:

Face : 0.5–1% (1–2 drops per 10 ml of carrier oil)

Body : 1–3% (5–15 drops per 30 ml of carrier oil)

Therapeutic massage : 2–5% (10–25 drops per 30 ml of carrier oil)

What is the ratio of essential oil to carrier oil?

Calculator: https://aromalab.pl/kalkulator-stezen-i-objetosci-olejkow-eterycznych/ or https://calculator.dev/beauty/oil-dilution/

3. Skin Test – A Must for Every New Oil

Before using a new oil, it's recommended to perform a patch test. Mix 1 drop of oil with 1 teaspoon of carrier oil and apply it to the inside of your wrist to observe your skin's reaction for 24 hours.

4. Phototoxicity – The Invisible UV Threat

Some oils, especially citrus oils, contain furanocoumarins, which increase skin sensitivity to the sun. Pappas emphasizes that sun exposure after using these oils can lead to burns and skin discoloration.

5. Oils and Ailments – A Conscious Approach

Some oils may worsen symptoms of illnesses. Research indicates their potential interactions with medications and their effects on the body:

Epilepsy : Avoid oils containing thujone (e.g. sage, mugwort)

Hypertension : Limit the use of stimulating oils (e.g. rosemary, thyme)

Pregnancy : Lavender and mandarin oils are safe, but jasmine and myrrh should be avoided.

6. Bath Oils – Proper Emulsification Is Key

Never add oils directly to water. This poses a risk of chemical burns. Recommended dilution methods:

Epsom salt (mix the oil with the salt first)

Honey or milk

Vegetable oil

7. Aromatherapy and Animals – The Invisible Danger

Cats cannot metabolize the phenols and ketones found in oils like eucalyptus, peppermint, or tea tree. Dogs are more tolerant, but caution is still necessary.

8. Diffusion – How to Avoid Overexposure

Diffusing oils throughout the day is not recommended. 30-60-minute cycles are recommended, preferably in well-ventilated areas. Overexposure may cause headaches and irritation of the mucous membranes.

9. Oral Use – Only under supervision

While some oils, such as lemon and peppermint, are used in food, their high concentrations mean that inappropriate dosages can cause toxicity. You should never consume oils without consulting a healthcare professional.

10. Storage – Protection against Oxidation

To preserve the properties of oils:

Store them in dark glass bottles.

Keep away from heat and light

Avoid storing in plastic containers that may react with the oils.

Knowledge is the Key to Safe Aromatherapy

Safety in aromatherapy depends on knowledge and an informed approach. It's important to consult trusted sources, such as Robert Pappas's research and Robert Tisserand's Essential Oil Safety , and use oils according to scientific recommendations. This allows you to fully benefit from their therapeutic properties while minimizing the risk of adverse reactions.

Each drop of oil is the concentrated essence of the plant – it should be treated with due respect and care.