Choose
High-Quality Oils
The quality and composition of oils can vary greatly since oils are part of an unregulated industry. So keep the following tips in mind:
Purity: Pick an oil that contains aromatic plant compounds, with no additives or synthetic oils. Pure oils usually contain the plant’s botanical name
Quality: Real essential oils are the ones that have changed the least by the extraction process. The best ones are chemical free and have been extracted by distillation or mechanical cold pressing.
Reputation: Choose a brand that has a reputation for producing high-quality products.
Safety and Side Effects
Please be aware that just because something is natural it doesn’t mean that it will be safe for you. Peanuts are natural but some people eat some and have an allergic reaction. Essential oils are the same as plants and herbal products which have bioactive compounds that may harm your health.
Most essential oils are considered safe when they are inhaled or combined with a base oil for use on your skin. Please remember that you should consider others in your home who will be inhaling or exposed to the oils, such as pets, children, pregnant women etc.
Some people do get some side effects from essential oils, it can be anything from rashes, asthma attacks, allergic reactions or other forms of side effects. Every person is different so what works for one person might not for another. Lavender, peppermint, tea tree and ylang-ylang are the oils most commonly associated with adverse reactions. Also remember that oils such as cinnamon, which has high phenols, can cause skin irritation, therefore it should never be used directly on the skin but should be combined with a carrier oil. Some oils might have a reaction to sunlight and can cause minor burns, such as oils made from citrus fruits. Ingesting essential oils is not recommended because it can be harmful and in high doses can be fatal.
Essential oils are generally considered safe to inhale or apply to the skin, however some people might have some side effects such as allergies. Not enough studies have been made to support the claims made by certain companies selling the oils, and this industry is not regulated. Using essential oils as a complementary therapy for minor health problems or for well being is likely harmless. Remember that is you have serious health problems, are on certain medications, you should discuss the use of essential oils with your healthcare provider in order to make sure the oils are safe for you to use. The same should be done when taking vitamins, before taking vitamins make sure to consult with your doctor.