Essential Oil Precautions
WHAT PRECAUTIONS SHOULD I TAKE WHEN USING ESSENTIAL OILS?
- Never use any essential oils of the citrus variety before sunbathing. They are considered to be photosensitive oils, especially Bergamot.
- Do not use essential oils before the 18th week of pregnancy and then the essential oils should only be blends which have been formulated by a professional health care provider and always in low dilution.
- Keep aromatherapy products away from children.
- For cancer patients - avoid Fennel, and Aniseed essential oils. In mild dilution, cancer patients may use Lavender, Roman Chamomile, Frankincense, Bergamot and Ginger.
- Never take essential oils internally unless advised by a health care practitioner.
- All essential oils should be diluted with the exception of Tea Tree and Lavender which in most cases can be used directly on the skin (neat).
- Avoid using essential oils when taking homeopathic remedies.
- Reduce or avoid alcohol after aromatherapy massage.
- With high blood pressure, avoid Rosemary, Peppermint, Black Pepper, Clove, Eucalyptus, Thyme, Hyssop and Sage.
- For low blood pressure avoid excessive use of Lavender oil.
- For epilepsy, avoid Fennel, Hyssop and Rosemary.