
General Safety
- Oils should not be ingested.
- Keep oils out of the reach of children.
- Children/elderly cut dose by half. Infants use even less.
- Avoid these oils when spending time in the sun, as a component in them increases the chance of sunburn: Bergamot, Lemon, Lime, Angelica, and Orange.
- Avoid these oils for people with epilepsy: Fennel, Hyssop, and Rosemary.
- Avoid most oils in the first trimester of pregnancy except Chamomile, Lavender, Geranium, and Rose.
- During pregnancy, nursing or with high blood pressure some stimulating oils should be avoided.
Safety for Practitioners
- When you use the same oil too much or for too long, it’s possible to build up a sensitivity. Essential oils are released from the body through urine, exhalation and sweat. Follow a few simple steps to be sure your body is being purged of excessive oils.
- Drink plenty of clear water every day.
- Take breaks during the day and breathe lots of fresh air.
- Vary the essential oils you use as much as possible.
- Practice what you preach – take a bath when you get home from work. Perspiration draws the excess oils from your skin.