How To Make Good Use Of Essential Oils - NutriExpert Oils

What are essential oils?

They are made from parts of certain plants such as leaves, herbs, bark and peel. Manufacturers use different methods to concentrate them into oils. You can add them to vegetable oils, creams or bath gels. Or you can smell them, rub them on your skin or put them in your bath. Some research shows that they can be helpful, if you know how to use them properly. Always check the label and ask your doctor if you are not sure if you can use them.

Try it if you are anxious

Simple scents such as lavender, chamomile and rosewater can help you stay calm. You can breathe in or rub diluted versions of these oils on your skin. Scientists believe they work by sending chemical messages to parts of the brain that affect mood and emotion. While these scents alone won't relieve your stress, the aroma can help you relax.

Don't rub them anywhere

Oils that are suitable for your arms and legs may not be safe to put in your mouth, nose, eyes or private parts. Lemongrass, peppermint and cinnamon bark are a few examples.

Check for quality

Look for a trusted producer who makes pure oils with nothing added. You are more likely to have an allergic reaction to oils with other ingredients. Not all extras are bad. Some added vegetable oil may be normal for some more expensive essential oils.

DON'T trust buzzwords

Just because it comes from a plant does not mean it is safe to rub on the skin, breathe or eat, even if it is "pure." Natural substances can be irritating, toxic or cause allergic reactions. Like anything you put on your skin, it's best to test a little on a small area and see how your skin reacts.

Throw out older oils

In general, don't keep them longer than 3 years. Older oils are more likely to deteriorate due to exposure to oxygen. They may not work as well and can irritate your skin or cause an allergic reaction. If you see a big change in the look, feel, or smell of an oil, you should throw it away, as it has probably spoiled.

DO NOT put edible oils on your skin

Cumin oil, which is safe to use in your food, can cause blisters if you put it on your skin. Citrus oils that are safe to use in your food can be harmful to your skin, especially if you are exposed to the sun. And the opposite is true, too. Eucalyptus or sage oil can soothe you if you rub them on your skin or breathe them in. But swallowing them can lead to a serious complication, like seizures.

Dilute them

Undiluted oils are too strong to use directly. You'll need to dilute them, usually with vegetable oils or creams or bath gels, to a solution that contains only a small amount - 1% to 5% - of essential oil. Exactly how much can vary. The higher the percentage, the more likely you are to have a reaction, so it is important to mix them properly.

DO NOT use on damaged skin

Injured or inflamed skin will absorb more oil and can cause adverse skin reactions. Undiluted oils, which you should not use at all, can be downright dangerous on damaged skin.

Consider age

Young children and the elderly may be more sensitive to essential oils. You may need to dilute them further. And you should avoid certain oils altogether, like birch and wintergreen. Even in small amounts, these can cause serious problems in children 6 years old or younger because they contain a chemical called methyl salicylate. Do not use essential oils on a baby unless your pediatrician says it is okay.

Stop using if your skin reacts

Your skin might like essential oils. But if it doesn't - and you notice a rash, small bumps, boils or just itchy skin - take a break. More of the same oil can make things worse. Whether you mix it yourself or it's an ingredient in a ready-made cream, oil or aromatherapy product, wash it off gently with water.

Choose your therapist carefully

If you are looking for a professional aromatherapist, do your homework.

By law, they don't need training or a license.

But you can check to see if yours went to a school certified by professional organizations like the National Association for Holistic Aromatherapy.

Be careful if you are pregnant

Some essential massage oils can enter the placenta, an organ in your uterus that grows with your baby and helps nourish it.

It's not known if this is a problem unless you take toxic amounts, but to be safe, it's best to avoid certain oils if you're pregnant.

These include wormwood, rue, oakmoss, Lavandula stoechas, camphor, parsley seed, sage and hyssop.

Ask your doctor if you are unsure.