Safety and Precautions
Essential oils are highly concentrated, and they can be harmful if not used carefully. Before enjoying the benefits of a natural product please refer to the following safety guidelines.
- Do not take oil internally.
- Do not use for children under 6 years old.
- Stick with a 1% dilution when putting oils on children’s skin. That’s just 5 to 6 drops of essential oil in one ounce (30ml) of a carrier product.
- Be aware that some oils, while safe to use with kids at a 1% dilution, cause sun sensitivity and increase the risk of burns. These oils include:
- Bergamot
- Grapefruit
- Lemon
- Lime (if it’s been cold-pressed)
- Do not apply undiluted essential oil.
- Do not dilute oil in petroleum based baby oil.
- Do not massage over wound, broken bones, immediately after surgery.
- Do not put essential oils in eyes, ears, nose, or other areas with sensitive skin.
- Seek medical advice for those with chronic degenerative diseases before the use of essential oil.
Keep an eye out for reactions. If you develop a skin reaction where the oils have been applied, wash the area for 15-20 minutes with soap and water, then use a soothing moisturiser like coconut oil after the bath. If reactions are more serious than skin irritation, get immediate medical help.
Storage
Make sure to store essential oils out of reach of children.
Keep at cool place, all oil bottles tightly closed and away from direct sunlight.
Patch test
Patch tests allow you to see how your skin reacts to a particular oil before you perform a full application.
Here are the steps for conducting a patch test:
1. Wash your forearm with unscented soap.
2. Pat dry.
3. Rub a few drops of diluted essential oil into a small
patch of your forearm.
4. Wait 24 hours.
5. Remove the gauze.
If the skin patch is red, itchy, blistering, or swollen, you have had an adverse reaction to the oil and should discontinue use.
If you experience discomfort before the 24-hour period ends, immediately wash the area with soap and warm water.
