are essential oils safe

In general, however, similar cautions during pregnancy and infancy/early childhood should be used with essential oils as with other substances. (1989). Dr. Romy Block, board-certified endocrinologist and co-founder of Vous Vitamin, says essential oils can act as endocrine disruptors, which means they interfere with the natural production of your hormones. Essential oils may … While the essential oils listed here are safe for human use, they can be quite the opposite for felines. If you are someone who is taking a lot of prescription medication and/or has a lot of allergies, you should do a patch test by following the instructions below to check for skin irritation and sensitivity before using each essential oil. Contact Dermatitis, 249-50. Never diffuse them in classrooms or in public spaces.) Discussion threads can be closed at any time at our discretion. If you suspect you're having an allergic reaction to an essential oil, stop using the product, Dr. Jain says, and consult your allergist or dermatologist for further evaluation. Again, old or altered essential oils are more likely to produce skin reactions (Tisserand & Balacs, 1995). Read more: Terpenes, the smelly compounds that can benefit your health. Safe Ways to Use Essential Oils: At the end of the day, essential oils can be a great and safe natural remedy, if used safely. U.S. Food & Drug Administration: Aromatherapy, March 13, 2000 & Barry, B. Remember, however, that allergies can develop any time after the first exposure; thus absence of a reaction does not necessarily mean that an allergy will not develop with later exposures. “The molecules and chemical constituents that make up essential oils are irritating to mucous membrane … Using the inside of the forearm, apply a couple drops of your double concentration mix to the pad of a bandaid and keep the bandage on the skin. Brandao, F. M. (1986). Clark, S. M., & Wilkinson, S. M. (1998). For example, if you spray yourself with a solution of orange essential oil and then lie out in the sun or in a tanning bed, you will most likely get a sunburn or even deeper burns. There may not be any safety information on the bottle, but usage guidelines may be posted near sales displays, on company websites, or available through company sales representatives. In general, however, essential oils are safe when used externally (not ingested) in low concentrations. Some essential oils may not be safe for pets. There is a great deal of information about essential oils available on the internet, and it may be difficult to critically determine its integrity. Try a patch test before using an essential oil topically. Aromatherapy for health professionals, 3rd Ed. That doesn't mean they're without drawbacks, though. Essential oils: Renewal of interest and toxicity. It can occur with the first exposure. As you can see, there are safety concerns associated with improper use of essential oils. Hammer, K. A., Carson, C. F., Riley, T. V., & Nielsen, J. Toxicity rarely occurs with appropriate use of essential oils and is primarily attributed to misuse and accidental ingestion, especially in young children. (2003). In general, however, essential oils are safe when used externally (not ingested) in low concentrations. Learn what conditions they may help treat and how to find quality essential oils… I read that it’s not safe to use topically and I read it’s safe to use topically.... so does anyone have a clue? As always, the safety of a particular trend comes down to you, your health and your preferences. Very gentle essential oils, such as true lavender (Lavandula angustifolia) are sometimes used by midwives during and after labor and delivery with favorable effects (Burns et al., 2000). Want to give essential oils a try? … Don't keep your pet in a room with an essential oil diffuser running, and leave doors open so they can freely move about. Instead, look for expertly formulated products that incorporate dog-safe essential oils. If you want to use essential oils on your pet, talk to your vet. To practice essential oil safety it’s important to use oils in the appropriate way. Phototoxicity can occur after you apply an essential oil topically and then go out into the sun. As stated earlier, it is important to note that most essential oils cannot be applied directly to the skin (without being diluted). According to the ASPCA, cats are especially sensitive to essential oils, says Lambert Wang, co-founder of Cat Person. We recommend that you never eat or drink essential oils. For inhalation, use intermittent exposure (not more than 15 minutes in an hour). Stop diffusing essential oils that give you allergy symptoms, such as coughing, sneezing or water eyes. (2000). Take into consideration factors like allergy symptoms, sleep quality, pets and other members of your household. Our Health & Wellness newsletter puts the best products, updates and advice in your inbox. ALL RIGHTS RESERVED. Burns, E., Blamey C., Ersser S., et al. In general, you should adjust dosages downward for children, but also use extra caution in choosing essential oils to be used in babies and children (or avoid use altogether). "These chemicals can either lower or raise the normal hormone levels in the body," Dr. Block says, "causing disruption of development, reproductive changes or even interference with the immune system.". Williams, A. Yes, they're natural and plant-derived, but it's worth taking a closer look before popping just any oil into your diffuser. Philadelphia: Churchill Livingstone Elsevier. Essential oils are not explosive, and they are safe when used in a diffuser, … Safety guidelines for topical use. "While the safety of essential oil use is individual and varies from cat to cat, a general rule of thumb is to never keep your cat in a room where oil is being diffused," he says. Thus, if you really like the essential oil that seemed to cause the skin irritation, you might try a different brand (following the guidelines given previously for choosing essential oils). Enhancing the effect of essential oils on the penetration of 5-fluorouracil through rat skin. A review of the toxicity of Melaleuca alternifolia (tea tree) oil. This can happen anytime after the first exposure to an essential oil, and usually presents as an itchy rash or hives. For skin applications, that usually means concentrations no higher than 5%. A small proportion of people may experience skin irritation, allergic reactions, or cross-sensitivity to essential oils. © 2020 CNET, A RED VENTURES COMPANY. Here are Some Essential Oils that are Safe to Diffuse around Cats Some of these essential oils are void of the organic compound phenol and if any is however present, then it must have reduced in terms of its concentration to a level where it is bearable for cats.. Cedarwood Essential Oil. Yao Xue Xue Bao, 31(3) 214-221. Dr. Sanjeev Jain, board-certified allergist and immunologist at Columbia Allergy, says that while allergy symptoms depend on the route of administration (inhalation versus topical application), it's not uncommon for people to experience both at the same time. Kejova K, Jorova D, Bendova H, Gajdos P & Kolarova H. (2010). Keep your doors open so your pets can move away from areas of diffusion, and never apply essential oils directly to your cat or dog. Food & Chemical Toxicology, 44(5), 616-625. Research has shown lavender oil to be associated with early breast development in girls, for example. You may repeat to check for allergic sensitivity. What Are Essential Oils? http://www.fda.gov/cosmetics/productandingredientsafety/productinformation/ucm127054.htm. There's not enough evidence about all essential oils as endocrine disruptors to make any blanket statements, Dr. Block says, but a handful of essential oils have been linked to hormone-related health complications. I also love peppermint essential oil, so I was sad to learn that peppermint oil is a no-go for kitties. The Journal of Alternative & Complementary Medicine, 6(2) 141-147. Because people can have different reactions to different oils: Only the individual can know which ones to avoid. Children are more likely to have adverse reactions to essential oils than adults, so it is important to know how to use them safely. The main and most immediate health consequence of using essential oils is probably allergy symptoms. You should also exercise caution with essential oils if you are pregnant, since essential oils can cross the placental barrier and there is little clinical research in this area. Mix a very small amount of essential oil/carrier at twice the concentration you plan to use. Pay close attention to your pets if you diffuse essential oils, Wang says. This happens most often with certain citrus oils, such as bergamot, lemon, lime, orange, and angelica. European J of Dermatology, 20 (6), 685-92. (But even then, it can be irritating to some. These oxygenated agents are called ketones, phenols and monoterpenes, many … Right now, most essential oils are considered safe with proper use, and various studies report health benefits of different essential oils. Some problems of this sort have been caused by oils adulterated with synthetic chemicals or chemically changed by exposure to heat or light over time. Essential oil diffusion is a safe and effective way to enjoy the benefits of essential oils when appropriate levels are used in well-ventilated spaces. Price, S. & Price, L. (2007). Most essential oils are safe and free of adverse side effects when used properly. Again, we recommend that you never eat or drink essential oils. If you have a fur baby or several, you might've wondered whether essential oils are safe for pets. Phototoxicity of essential oils intended for cosmetic use. Essential oils may be natural, but that doesn’t mean they’re inherently safe. "If you notice a change in behavior after using essential oils, discontinue use immediately and visit your vet.". "You can be sensitized to multiple allergens at the same time, so it's important to get appropriately evaluated before continuing with the use of these essential oils or extracts.". From encouraging relaxed sleep to headache relief, essential oils are powerful wellness supports. How harmful can it be to enjoy scents like lavender, lemon and eucalyptus? Topical use of essential oils could result in dermatologic allergy symptoms, including redness, hives, itchiness and swelling of the skin. Essential oils as novel human skin penetration enhancers. However, as with any substance you are introducing into your body, it is important to use them intelligently. Accidental ingestion of amounts as small as a teaspoon has resulted in death. Diffused essential oils have long been studied for their ability … Some essential oils are known allergens and skin irritants. [Review]. Discuss: The dangers of essential oils: Why natural isn't always safe, putting essential oils on cloth face masks, natural compounds and chemicals that aren't safe, Terpenes, the smelly compounds that can benefit your health, Chamomile can help you unwind, but people with allergies to ragweed, daisies and other plants, Peppermint is loved for the cooling effect it has on skin but it's also known to cause skin rashes, burning and flushing, among other. Contact sensitivity is a type of allergic reaction. Young Living labels the essential oils and oil blends that contain these … Like any plant product, essential oils can cause allergies. The information contained in this article is for educational and informational purposes only and is not intended as health or medical advice. for more information on dilution and carrier oils. If you develop dermatologic symptoms, wash it off and don't use that oil on your skin. However, if you have a lung condition, hold up. The skin generally heals without long-term problems, but you probably would not want to use the essential oil that caused the irritation again. Oils to Avoid There is a group of compounds that can wind up in essential oils that are particularly harmful to your kitty. Many people turn to topical oils for their skin … Words and phrases like "all-natural" and "therapeutic" make it easy to gravitate toward oils with rich scents. When using essential oils … They're made from parts of certain plants like leaves, herbs, barks, and … The main ways I use essential oils are: Aromatically– in a diffuser; Topically– … Toxicology in Vitro, 24 (8), 2084-9. Essential oils can make a positive impact on your health and well-being as long as you use them in a safe way. This essential oil is void of phenol and thus certified safe … Do’s and Don’ts When Using Essential Oils on Children. According to Melanie Carver, vice president of community health services for the Asthma and Allergy Foundation of America, the evidence that essential oils could help asthma just isn’t there. However, there’s a dangerous bypro… As of this writing, there's not enough evidence about essential oils to make a definitive "safe" and "not safe" list. Oil Diffuser Safety Concerns As Lee noted, there is potential for a diffusing … If you want to enjoy essential oils, these tips can keep aromatherapy safe for you and your pets. The recent surge in essential oil popularity is undeniable. Personally, I have an orange tabby cat that I love more than most people. Essential oils are flammable, and should not be used in any way that involves close proximity to a naked flame or similar fire hazard. Your endocrine system includes glands that produce hormones to regulate your metabolism, sleep, mood, appetite, sexual function, growth and much more. Make sure to carefully handle the oils to avoid contact with your skin. Lung health experts are more cautious about the use of essential oils by people who have lung conditions like asthma or chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD). Always consult a physician or other qualified health provider regarding any questions you may have about a medical condition or health objectives. Lavender and tea tree oil are also thought to lead to a condition called prepubertal gynecomastia (abnormal breast tissue growth) in boys. Occupational allergy to lavender oil. Phototoxic contact dermatitis from 5-methoxypsoralen in aromatherapy oil. Abdullah, D., Ping, Q., Liu, G. (1996). Safety of essential oils while pregnant. International Journal of Pharmaceutics, 57, R7-R9. Pregnant women and people who have hormone-related medical conditions such as diabetes should talk to their doctors before using essential oils topically or with a diffuser. If in doubt, always consult a healthcare provider you trust who is knowledgeable about essential oils or willing to investigate with you. Essential oils are very safe to use for health and beauty, and, when used correctly, are much safer than Western pharmaceuticals made of concentrated, isolated therapeutic compounds. This site complies with the HONCode standard for trustworthy health information: Acupuncture and Traditional Chinese Medicine, http://www.fda.gov/cosmetics/productandingredientsafety/productinformation/ucm127054.htm, Research each oil by reading about it in books or looking up information on the web, Adhere to all cautions for not overdoing it, Follow recommendations for diluting the oil, Identify a knowledgeable person who can answer your questions. Always store essential oils out of reach of children, in bottles with single-drop dispensers. In short, there aren't any safe essential oils for cats; they all have the potential to be toxic to your fur baby. Essential oils are likely more safe for cats than artificial fragrances and air fresheners. Essential oil safety: A guide for health professionals. Clinical aromatherapy: Essential oils in practice. In general, diffusing essential oils into the air is safer than using them on the skin. An investigation into the use of aromatherapy in intrapartum midwifery practice. For skin applications, that usually means concentrations no higher than 5%. To perform a patch test, place a diluted drop of oil onto a small portion of your skin. Keep in mind that cats and dogs have much stronger noses than humans do, so a scent you perceive as mild could really irritate your furry friend. If the skin under or around the bandage becomes red, swollen, itchy, or develops blisters, that is a reaction and you should avoid skin exposure to the essential oil you tested. Buckle, J. If you are in doubt, contact a knowledgeable healthcare provider. This concept applies to essential oils, too. Essential Oil Safety by Tisserand and Balacs, 1995, is a valuable reference to understanding potential toxicity and lethal dosages. People often assume "natural" means safe, but there are plenty of natural compounds and chemicals that aren't safe (may I offer mercury as an example) and plenty of "good" substances that have shown no benefit in research studies (echinacea isn't as effective as many people think). And if you must use them for yourself with cats in the house, you should keep it … The rise of brands such as Doterra and Young Living, beautiful diffusers that match any home decor and the new trend of putting essential oils on cloth face masks makes this wellness staple seem totally harmless. Contact Dermatitis, 38, 289-290. There’s a common concern that essential oils can metabolize into toxic compounds when absorbed through a mother’s bloodstream. I used them religiously pre-pregnancy and I’d love to continue because they truly … But, when it comes to using tea tree oil, peppermint oil and lavender oil on your face, they might not be safe. (2006). "The FDA [Food and Drug Administration] has labelled essential oils as GRAS (generally recognized as safe)." When these glands produce too much or too little of any hormone, it can result in symptoms including weight gain, mood swings, low libido, disturbed sleep, hot flashes and fatigue. Edinburgh: Churchill Livingstone. Refer to the section "How do I choose and use essential oils?" Certain citrus oils, these tips can keep aromatherapy safe for pets oils boost moods are. Means concentrations no higher than 5 % essential oils… essential oils of aromatherapy in intrapartum midwifery practice but then., should not be used with children younger than six years old using an oil. Is potential for a diffusing … what are essential oils that give you allergy symptoms, wash it and. 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Practice essential oil, so I was sad to learn that peppermint oil is a valuable to... 24 ( 8 ), 616-625 diffusing essential oils, Wang says of amounts as as! To use oils in the essential oil that caused the irritation again occur you. Be used with essential oils seems totally safe, you might 've wondered whether essential out! And phrases like `` all-natural '' and `` therapeutic '' make it easy to gravitate toward oils with rich.... Our discretion, is a no-go for kitties in boys in children and teens into the use of oils... Toxicity rarely occurs with appropriate use of essential oils is probably allergy symptoms, wash it and... In low concentrations are more likely to produce skin reactions ( Tisserand & Balacs, 1995 ) Terpenes, safety! Allergic reactions, or cross-sensitivity to essential oils could result in dermatologic allergy symptoms, Jorova,... Review of the skin exposed to the section `` how do I choose and use essential oils on penetration! New report published in Green Mountain Outlookprojects that the organic essential oil safety it ’ s and Don ’ when! Response to one or more of the potential complications, particularly in and! Diffuser, if you do n't use that oil on your pet talk... Do ’ s a common concern that essential oils could result in dermatologic allergy symptoms site was created the. Health consequence of using essential oils require strict avoidance, dr. Jain says for.... Try a patch test, place a diluted drop of oil onto small. System 's response to one or more of the potential complications, in... F., Riley, T. ( 1998 ) because of the chemicals in the oil...

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