March 8, 2011

Aromatherapy Safety Guidelines

The primary components used in aromatherapy are essential oils. They are derived from the plants and are very much concentrated and potent that using them requires proper procedures, tools and knowledge most importantly. Proper use will guarantee not only good benefits to the body but also safety for the users.

In general, essential oils are used in a diluted state. Yet there are emergency instances when undiluted oils may be used like treating burns and cuts. Ideally, a drop of essential oil in water is enough. For example, a drop of chamomile, tea tree or lavender plant derivative is adequate to induce a soothing effect to the body and enhances protection against infection. Too much or repeated application may cause the body to become sensitized to them. The undiluted oil should also be kept away from children and pets. They must not be placed on polished areas and should not be applied near the eye. Very young children aged 3 and below must not be exposed to essential oils because their internal organs are still underdeveloped and may not handle the plant derivatives very well.

Pregnant women should first consult with their doctors, midwives or therapists if they are suitable to use essential oils. Upon approval of the doctor, they should only use them when the first trimester of pregnancy has been completed. Pregnant women also need to use only 1% concentration. The aromatherapy essentials to use are those which would not have contraindication for the pregnancy. Essential plant derivatives which are of high risk to pregnant women are sage oil, savin oil, rosemary and camphor oil.

They should never be taken internally without the advice and guidance of a professional aromatherapist, even if you have thoroughly read books about it. This person is trained on the proper administration of internal use of plant derivatives. However, not all aromatherapists may be trained on this aspect so it would be smart to first verify if he or she is indeed trained for that ministration.

In using them, it is always best to learn and understand more about the properties and traits of the oil you are using. Some oils may be sensitive to electromagnetic radiation. If you plan to sun bathe or lie on a sun bed after applying essential oils, make sure that you know if the oil you are using is photosensitive or not. Oils that are sensitive to light are tagette, expressed lime, cold pressed lemon, cumin, bergamot and angelica root oils.

Irritation of the skin may result when plant derivatives in high concentration are used continuously. Some of the oils that may cause irritation are red and white thyme, tagette, origanum, may chang, clove, cinnamon bark and bay leaf oils. When using citrus in bathing, use only up to 4 drops to prevent irritation on sensitive skin.

Not all essential oils are used in aromatherapy due to toxicity risk, possible irritation/sensitivity and other similar health risks. Some of these oils are wormwood, tansy, pennyroyal and parsley herb oils. They may also be flammable and therefore must be kept far from sources of fire, flame or ignition.

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