Safety Advice

In order to use our essential oils safely, please take the time to read the following guidance:

  • Essential oils are potent, highly concentrated substances and must therefore be handled and used with great care as misuse may cause toxicity. 
  • Do not apply essential oils to the skin undiluted (including when adding an essential oil to a bath).
  • When diluting your essential oil, it is most appropriate to use a 2% or less dilution of the essential oil.
  • Please note that essential oils are flammable liquids and should therefore be stored and use as you would any other flammable substance. 
  • Please keep essential oils out of reach of children. 
  • If you have a medical condition, are taking any medication or are undertaking any type of medical treatment, please seek advice from you doctor regarding the use of your chosen essential oil as there are some essential oils which cannot be used alongside certain medical conditions.
  • There are a number of essential oils which should not be taken during pregnancy and therefore, please always check to see if your essential oil is safe to use.  Do not use any essential oils during the first trimester of pregnancy and, after that, only work with a 1% dilution of the essential oil and only with the approval of your doctor or midwife.
  • If you wish to use essential oils for children or infants, please consult with a qualified, insured Aromatherapist first and if they have a medical condition, please seek a doctor’s advice.
  • Do not ingest essential oils and avoid contact with the eyes and mouth to prevent the irritation of these delicate areas.
  • Always perform a patch test before using a new essential oil on your skin. Individuals with sensitive skin in particular may find that certain essential oils (notably the spices and other warming oils) may irritate their skin, even when diluted. To perform a patch test, dilute the essential oil in a carrier oil at a 2% dilution and apply a couple of drops of this on your wrist, inner forearm or back. If any irritation occurs, rinse the area with plenty of water.  If no irritation occurs within 48 hours you can proceed with that essential oil but cease use immediately should any irritation occur in the future.
  • There is a phototoxicity risk associated with several essential oils (notably the citrus oils and especially bergamot) which means the use of these oils can make the skin more sensitive with the effects of UV light.  You should therefore cover the skin to protect it from strong sunlight and avoid the use of UV light sunbeds for 12 hours after such oils have been applied.

Now that you understand how to use essential oils safely, enjoy finding out how you can use our essential oils and what they can offer you therapeutically.