How do I Safely Use Essential Oils?
Please know that Essential Oils are extremely potent; they contain very concentrated properties from each plant. For example, you would have to drink 28 cups of peppermint tea to receive the same benefits as just 1 drop of peppermint oil! EOs are very powerful and should be treated with respect upon use.
Please be sure to read all labels on your oils. Caution should especially be taken when using oils topically or internally. Only SOME oils are approved safe for internal use and all of these should be diluted (put into your food or drinks) or taken in a veggie cap, they should not be taken alone.
Click here to visit the FDA website listing the oils that are listed under GRAS - (Generally Recognized As Safe) for internal consumption. Please know that not all oil companies are equal and therefore not all oils are created equally. If an oil is listed on the GRAS website and the label on the oil of a different brand does not say that it is safe for consumption that means that you should NOT take that oil internally. That also means that the oil itself is likely not pure, and contains additives. To learn about why doTerra oils have reached the top of the market click here.
In regards to topical use, most oils should be diluted as well. Only certain oils are safe for neat application (directly on skin without dilution). Diluting oils in fractionated coconut oil or other carrier oils does not limit the benefits or the amount your body absorbs the oil, in fact it often increases the amount of absorption because it slows down the rate the oil evaporates.
It is also important to note that citrus oils such as, Lemon, Orange, Bergamot, Lime and Grapefruit, cause photosensitivity which means that your skin is more susceptible to being burnt in the sun after use. It is best to avoid direct sunlight after using citrus oils topically.
Dilution Guidelines
Please practice oils safely!!
Essential Oils can be used in three ways, Aromatically, Topically and in some cases Internally. Traditionally, internal use of Essential Oils was not recommended, however as the research surrounding essential oils continues to develop, a greater understanding of application methods is now understood and internal use has been approved by the FDA for SOME oils, (such as Oil of Oregano or Basil, which can be used safely in small amounts while cooking). I will say it again, please be sure to read the labels of your oils!
Please read below the direct quote from doTerra's website about the usage of Essential Oils:
Aromatic
The sense of smell is a tool that can elicit powerful physiologic, mental, and emotional responses. Essential oils are quickly absorbed by the smell receptors, which have a direct link to the limbic system by way of the olfactory nerve. The limbic system is part of the brain that supports a variety of functions including smell, emotions, behaviour and memory. For this reason, essential oils have an especially powerful effect via aromatic application.
Some essential oils induce uplifting or invigorating effects, while others are more calming. Diffusion is one of the simplest methods for using essential oils aromatically. Diffusers that use cold air or water are ideal. However, using essential oils aromatically does not require any special diffusing devices.
You can achieve the same health benefits by simply placing a few drops of essential oil in the palm of your hand that is then cupped around the nose as you breathe deeply.
Additional aromatic uses For Essential Oils Include:
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Apply oil to a cotton ball and place in the air vents of your vehicle
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Mix oils in a spray bottle with water and mist over furniture, carpet, or linens
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Add oil to a batch of laundry or to dryer sheets
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Use in household surface cleaners
Topical
Topical application is a very effective method for applying essential oils. Because essential oils have low molecular weights and are lipid soluble, they easily penetrate the skin. Once absorbed, they stay in the applied area for a localized benefit. Although essential oils are readily absorbed, there are many ways to increase absorption. Using a light massage will increase the blood
flow to the area of application, in turn improving distribution throughout the body. Use of a carrier oil can also increase absorption, especially in skin that is dry or flaky as it helps moisturize the skin and slow evaporation of the oil. To decrease the likelihood of developing a skin sensitivity, especially on young or sensitive skin, it is advisable to use a carrier oil (such as Fractionated Coconut Oil) to dilute more potent oils and when trying an oil for the first time. The recommend dilution ratio is typically one drop of essential oil to three drops of carrier oil.
It’s always advisable to use several small doses throughout the day rather than a single large dose. Start with the lowest possible dose (1–2 drops). A topical dose can be repeated every 4–6 hours as needed. Because every individual is unique, the dose will vary for each individual based on size, age, and overall health status.
Beneficial Areas You Can Apply Essential Oils
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Neck
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Forehead and temples
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Chest and abdomen
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Arms, legs, bottom of feet
Other Effective Methods of Topical Application
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Add a few drops of oil to a warm bath
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Make a hot or cold compress by soaking a towel or cloth in water, adding essential oils, and then applying to the desired area
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Add oil to a lotion or moisturizer and then apply to skin
Sensitive Areas to be Avoided:
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Some facial areas, such as the skin around the eyes
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Eyes and inner ears
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Broken, damaged, or otherwise injured skin
Internal
Certain essential oils have a rich culinary history and can be used as dietary supplements supporting a variety of health conditions. When you sprinkle cinnamon on your oatmeal, sip a mug of peppermint tea, or add fresh basil leaves to your spaghetti, you are actually consuming some volatile aromatic essential oil compounds.
Essential oils contribute many health benefits as well as flavouring and aroma properties to foods. When in their concentrated form, essential oils can be used as dietary supplements for more targeted and potent health benefits.
When ingested, essential oils directly enter the blood stream via the gastrointestinal tract, where they are transported throughout the rest of the body. Essential oils are lipid soluble so they are readily transported to all organs of the body, including the brain. Then, like all things we consume, essential oils are metabolized by the liver and other organs and are then excreted.
The composition of essential oils is highly complex. Each constituent possesses a unique set of biochemical properties that react with cells and organs in different ways. Although these mechanisms of action are not completely understood, the positive end results have been demonstrated. However, the body is only equipped to handle appropriate doses of essential oils.
Proper dosing according to labeling recommendations and other professional guidelines should be strictly followed to avoid toxicity.
Effective Methods of Internal Application
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Use oils in recipes for cooking or baking to replace fresh or dried herbs and spices
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Remember that essential oils are much more potent than dried or fresh herbs and spices, so start with a very small amount
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For more potent oils, it may be better to administer them by toothpicks (dip the end of a clean toothpick into the oil and then add to the food) rather than drops
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Add essential oils to water, smoothies, milk, tea, or other drinks
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Take essential oils internally in a veggie capsule or add to a small amount of applesauce or yogurt"
Reference
doTerra, 2016 <http://doterra.com/US/en/using-essential-oils>