Before You Start Using Essential Oils

A Few Important Information Before You Start 

1) Always skin test an essential oil before using it:
Each person's body is different, so apply in a small area first. Apply one oil or blend at a time. When layering oils that are new to you, allow enough time (3-5 minutes) for the body to respond before applying a second oil.

2) Use a small amount:
When applying essential oils to skin that may carry residue from cosmetics, personal care products containing synthetic chemicals. Some of them especially petroleum based chemicals can penetrate and remain in the skin and fatty tissues for days or weeks after use. Use small amount to begin.

3) Watch:
Essential oils may work against such chemicals and toxins built up in the body from chemicals in food, water and work environment. If you have this kind of an experience using essential oils, it may be wise to reduce or stop for a few days, and start an internal cleansing program.

4) Flush:
Double your water intake and keep flushing those toxins out of your body.


Alternatives to a detoxification program to determine the cause of the problem:

• Dilute 1-3 drops of essential oil in 1/2 tsp. of vegetable oil (almond or olive oils).
• Reduce the number of oils used at any time
• Use single oils or oil blends, one at a time
• Reduce the amount of oil used
• Reduce the frequency of application
• Drink more purified or distilled water
• Consult professionals to monitor detoxification
• Test the diluted essential oil on a small patch of skin for 30 seconds. If any redness or irritation results, dilute the are immediately with pure vegetable oil. Then cleanse with soap and water
• If skin irritation or other uncomfortable side effects persist, discontinue using the oil on that location and apply the oils on the bottom of the feet

You might want to avoid using products that contain the following ingredients to eliminate potential problems:

• Cosmetics, deodorants, and skin-care products containing aluminium, petrochemicals or other synthetic ingredients
• Perms, hair colours or dyes, hair sprays, or gels containing synthetic chemicals: avoid shampoos, toothpaste, mouthwash, and soaps containing synthetic chemicals such as sodium laurel sulcate, propylene glycol, or lead acetate
• Garden spray, paints, detergents, and cleansers containing toxic chemicals and solvents
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A Few Other Tips:

You can use many essential oils anywhere on the body except on the eyes and in the ears.

Keep "hot" oils such as oregano, cinnamon, thyme, eucalyptus, mountain savoury, lemon and orange. Blends such as Thieves, PanAway, Relieve It and Exodus II. Keep them out of reach of children.

These types of oils should always be diluted for both children and adults.

If a child or infant swallows an essential oils, do the following:

• Seek immediate emergency medical attention, if necessary.
• Give the child milk, cream, yogurt, or another safe, oil-soluble liquid to drink.