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The therapeutic benefits of aromatherapy can be safely and effectively enjoyed at home. However, as with many other therapies and remedies, there are some very important points to consider and always be mindful of. Please follow the following precautions prior to the use of any essential oils. Also, do not assume that an essential oil is safe if it is not listed below - we recommend always doing your own research to ensure use is suitable for you.

WARNING: Essential oils that should never be used

Almond (bitter)
Aniseed
Arnica
Birch
Boldo Leaf
Broom (Spanish) 
Calamus
Camphor
Deer tongue
Garlic
Horseradish
Jaborandi Leaf Mellitus
Mugwort
Mustard
Onion
Pennyroyal
​Rue
Sassafras
​Savin
Southernwood
Thuja
Wintergreen
Wormseed
​Wormwood

always consult with a medical professional before use:

Individuals with the following conditions should always consult with your GP, medical practitioner, or qualified professional aromatherapy prior to using any essential oils: 
  • during pregnancy and while breastfeeding
  • suffering from serious or chronic health conditions
  • receiving medical or psychiatric treatment
  • taking homeopathic remedies
  • any use for babies or young children 
  • any use for pets and other animals

essential oils may cause skin irritation or sensitisation

The following list of essential oils may be more likely to cause skin irritation or skin sensitisation. These oils should always be avoided by anyone with sensitive skin if using topically in massage, bath or body oils, creams or balms etc. Anyone using an essential oil topically for the first time, or who has sensitive skin, should perform a skin patch test prior to use. 
  • Essential oils more likely to cause skin irritation 
Allspice
Bay Laurel
Benzoin
​Cassia
Cinnamon
Clove
Fennel
Fir Needle
Oregano
Parsley
Sage
Spruce
Tagetes
​Thyme
  • Essential oils more likely to cause skin sensitisation
Allspice
Bay Laurel
Benzoin
Cassia
​Catnip
Cinnamon
Citronella
Clove
Fennel
Lemongrass
May Chang
Melissa (Lemon Balm)
​Oak moss
Peru Balsam
Pine
Star Anise
​Tagetes
  • ​How to perform a skin patch test for skin irritation: 
 Mix 1 drop of the essential oil into 5 ml of carrier oil and mix well. Apply a small amount of the essential oil/carrier oil blend onto a small area in the crook of your arm and leave for 12 hours then check for any reaction. Alternatively, cover the skin to which the oil has been applied with a plaster and leave unwashed for 24 hours then check for any reaction.

  • How to perform a skin patch test for sensitisation: 
If there are no signs of irritation following the first test, repeat a second time, and repeat the test daily for 7 days. Rest for 7-14 days, apply the same blend of essential oil and carrier to the skin. At this stage, any sensitivity to the essential oil will become apparent. ​

Additional cautions:

  • Essential oils should not be used undiluted on the skin, unless otherwise indicated
  • Essential oils should not be used on or around the eyes
  • Essential oils should not be taken orally, or used internally
  • If used regularly, essential oils should be changed every 2-3 weeks to avoid toxicity build up
  • Diuretic oils such as cypress, juniper berry and rosemary may overstimulate the kidneys
  • Overuse of essential oils may cause headaches, nausea, or rashes
  • Stimulating oils may disturb sleep so should be avoided in the evening
Important considerations & cautions:
The content on this site shares our own personal use of botanical ingredients and essential oils, is for information only, and should not be taken as medical advice. Although many essential oils are considered safe for most people in small amounts, inappropriate use of some oils could be dangerous. Prior to using any essential oils, you should always do your own research, and consult with a medical professional, your GP, qualified herbalist or professional aromatherapist.