Safe Use of Essential Oils
Essential oils have been used for centuries aromatically, topically and internally to support healthy bodily function and emotional state and as a form of healing and medicinal application in many different cultures. There is continued development and research in the industry to support the safe use and application of essential oils in modern life as an alternative to synthetic and pharmaceutical medicines in many cases in a safe and manageable way.
Internal
Many essential oils have been used as dietary supplements supporting a variety of healthy conditions and as tasty additives to cooking for many centuries. Consumption of these volatile aromatic essential oil compounds can help to support bodily health and emotional and physical requirements and they taste great!
The composition of essential oils is highly complex with each constituent possessing 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 labelling recommendations and other professional guidelines should be strictly followed to avoid toxicity.
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 metabolised by the liver and other organs and are then excreted. The parts of the oils which are absorbed help the body systems to work at a cellular level.
Always double check your labels before taking internally, as some are not suitable.
The composition of essential oils is highly complex with each constituent possessing 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 labelling recommendations and other professional guidelines should be strictly followed to avoid toxicity.
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 metabolised by the liver and other organs and are then excreted. The parts of the oils which are absorbed help the body systems to work at a cellular level.
- Use oils in recipes for cooking or baking to replace fresh or dried herbs and spices
- Add essential oils to water, smoothies, milk, tea, or other drinks (please be careful when using hot oils this way)
- Take essential oils internally in a veggie capsule or add to a small amount of applesauce or yoghurt
Always double check your labels before taking internally, as some are not suitable.
Topical
Topical application is a very effective method for applying essential oils.
Although essential oils are readily absorbed, there are many ways to increase absorption. Using a light massage like the aromatouch method 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 moisturise the skin and slow evaporation of the oil.
Using a carrier oil (such as Fractionated Coconut Oil) to dilute more potent oils and when trying an oil for the first time, can help to protect sensitive skin against reactions to the potent oils. The recommended dilution ratio is typically one drop of essential oil to three drops of carrier oil for an adult, but you can learn more here
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 everyone based on size, age, and overall health status.
For tension apply to the tense area, for example: shoulders, neck, across the forehead and on the temples (keeping away from the eyes), lower abdomen or lower back.
For mood & sleep support try applying on the bottom of the feet, the big toe, on the back of the neck & ears, along the spine & on pulse points. You can also take a small amount in your hands & breathe the aroma in deeply.
Apply
Although essential oils are readily absorbed, there are many ways to increase absorption. Using a light massage like the aromatouch method 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 moisturise the skin and slow evaporation of the oil.
Using a carrier oil (such as Fractionated Coconut Oil) to dilute more potent oils and when trying an oil for the first time, can help to protect sensitive skin against reactions to the potent oils. The recommended dilution ratio is typically one drop of essential oil to three drops of carrier oil for an adult, but you can learn more here
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 everyone based on size, age, and overall health status.
For tension apply to the tense area, for example: shoulders, neck, across the forehead and on the temples (keeping away from the eyes), lower abdomen or lower back.
For mood & sleep support try applying on the bottom of the feet, the big toe, on the back of the neck & ears, along the spine & on pulse points. You can also take a small amount in your hands & breathe the aroma in deeply.
Apply
- Add a few drops of oil to a warm bath
- Make a hot or cold compress by soaking a towel or cloth in water, adding essential oils, and then applying to the desired area
- Some facial areas, such as the skin around the eyes
- Eyes and inner ears
- Broken, damaged, or otherwise injured skin
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. 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.
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.
- Add oils to your washing load or dryer for amazing smelling laundry!
- Use as a base for household spray cleaners and deodorisers