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:
- How to perform a skin patch test for sensitisation:
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.
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.