About that essential oil you just bought…
Can you rub it on your skin?
Today let’s discuss essential oil safety.
In last weeks blog on dilution, you can see the percentages suggested for various ages, issues, and other concerns. There are guides to make a 30 ml. stock blend that can be used to make smaller roller bottles.
Start with the weakest dilution, such as 1%. If that dilution is not working after 2 weeks, then make a blend that is a 2% product. A 3% dilution is for a specific injury, such as a sprain or strain. It is important to use this dilution for a short duration (10-14 days), then go back to a 2% dilution for daily use. Remember, always start with the lowest percentage of essential oils in a blend. A little goes a long way to help modulate any concerns.
Discontinue use if the product causes redness, rash, or burning. If discomfort or irritation occurs, stop using the essential oil blend. Apply a carrier oil to the affected area. Never use water to flush the oil off the skin, as this may increase discomfort.
There are a few oils that can be used neat, that means straight out of the bottle. Those oils are tea tree (Melaleuca alternifolia), lavender (Lavandula angustifolia), and helichrysum (Helichrysum italicum).
Tea tree is an antifungal, antiviral, antibacterial, and antimicrobial oil. The scent is sharp and medicinal. Lavender blends well and tones down some of the sharp properties of tea tree.
A dab of tea tree oil can be used to clear up acne.
Lavender can be used neat applied to the temples for headache relief. Try adding a drop to a tissue, inhale to relieve anxiety. Lavender can also be used on the skin for blemishes.
Helichrysum has skin healing properties that are excellent for wound application, apply a drop on a cut.
Next week, I’ll discuss safety in the bath with essential oils.
As always, sign up for my email list for a FREE INTRODUCTION TO AROMATHERAPY PDF.
Happy Blending,
Crystal
He fills my life with good things.
Psalm 103:5
