A question we receive quite often is around the safety of essential oils, which is totally understandable, in fact, we had the same questions when we first received our enrolment order.

Using essential oils in your homes is something that MUST be taken seriously – doTERRA oils are potent, they are the purest in the world, they are strong and effective and yes, if misused, they can be dangerous – just like all products out there.

So here are some hints and tips to ensure you are not putting yourself or your precious family in harm’s way.

Safe for the Whole Family

Without question, essential oils are safe for the entire family, including our four-legged friends, as long as they are used with common sense and according to the safety guidelines provided by the company.

Adult Supervision

The most important rule for using essential oils with our kids is to only do so with the help and supervision of an adult. Essential oils are potent and should be kept out of reach of children, just like cleaning products, medicines and alcohol (to name a few).

How much do I use?

Essential oils are concentrated plant extracts. If too much oil is used, they can cause your body to react negatively. So how do you make sure that you are using the right amount of oil? The answer is both simpler and more complicated than you may think.

There are many things to consider when choosing the dosage of an essential oil. For instance, correct dosage depends on your age, weight, overall health, activity level, application method, and so many other factors. This makes it hard to find the correct dose for everyone because it changes so much from person to person. To be sure that you’re using the right amount, start with one drop of an essential oil diluted correctly (details below). From there, you can decide if the oil had the effect you wanted or if you need a second drop. Remember, when it comes to using essential oils, less is often more. Using small amounts multiple times a day is better than using a huge amount once a day.

Application Methods

Before using an essential oil and determining the right dosage, you need to decide how you want to apply it. There are three different ways you can apply an essential oil: aromatically, internally, and topically. Choosing the right application method is important so that you can get the benefit you want from the oil.

Aromatic application is probably the safest and easiest way to use essential oils. All you have to do is breathe and you can enjoy the benefits of an essential oil. Some ways to use an essential oil aromatically includes diffusing an essential oil with a diffuser necklace or an electronic diffuser, opening an essential oil bottle and smelling the aroma, or combining an essential oil with water in a glass squirt bottle and spraying it around the room as an air freshener. Using an essential oil aromatically allows you to enjoy the smell of an essential oil while also influencing your emotions and promoting well-being.

Topical application is when you want the oil to impact a specific area. For instance, if your skin is feeling irritated, you may want to apply a soothing essential oil, like Lavender, directly to that spot. When using an oil topically, never, ever apply oils to sensitive areas, such as your eyes, ears or up your nose. You also want to wash your hands after applying oils so that you don’t accidentally get oils in one of these sensitive areas.

Topical use of essential oils may induce a sensitivity response, especially on young or sensitive skin. To decrease the likelihood of developing a sensitivity, it is advisable to use a carrier oil to dilute the more potent oils and when trying an oil for the first time. The recommend dilution ratio is typically 1 drop of essential oil to three drops of carrier oil. A diluted mixture can be prepared in advance by mixing the oils in an empty glass bottle or for a single dose by mixing the oils directly in the hands. Topical use of essential oils may induce a sensitivity response, especially on young or sensitive skin. To decrease the likelihood of developing a sensitivity, it is advisable to use a carrier oil to dilute the more potent oils and when trying an oil for the first time. The recommend dilution ratio is typically 1 drop of essential oil to three drops of carrier oil. A diluted mixture can be prepared in advance by mixing the oils in an empty glass bottle or for a single dose by mixing the oils directly in the hands.

Internal application is when you swallow essential oils. You can do this by cooking with essential oils, or adding essential oils to water or a smoothie. Taking an oil internally allows the oil to enter directly into the bloodstream. Internal use is probably the most potent way to use essential oils and, while safe when used appropriately, caution should be taken with young children, you may want to start with aromatic or topical application instead.

Dilution – Because essential oils are so concentrated, mixing an essential oil with a carrier oil, like Fractionated Coconut Oil, decreases the concentration. This is called dilution. Dilution helps protect your skin by reducing the risk for skin irritation while also helping your skin absorb the oil better

Picking the Correct Essential Oils

One more thing to remember before using essential oils is that it’s important to pick the correct oils to use. Some oils are mild, while others are strong. A child’s skin tends to be more sensitive than an adult’s skin, so using milder oils, such as Lavender, Tea Tree, or Frankincense, is a good idea.  Also, make sure to read the oil label before applying it. Some oils can cause your skin to be extra sensitive to sunlight when applied topically, so make sure you know if there are any cautions on the oil label that you need to be aware of.

Key Points to Remember

When it comes to using essential oils, the entire family can benefit. However, you need to ensure that you’re using proper usage guidelines to keep yourself safe and healthy. Whenever using essential oils, remember that basic common sense, adult supervision and respecting the guidelines of that company is the key to safety.  Also, be careful to use the right dose and the right application method. For topical use, this includes diluting the oil. If you’re not sure how much oil to use or how to apply it then do some research and/or seek professional advice.

Remember, essential oils can be amazing tools for supporting your well-being, but you have to be certain that you’re using them safely and correctly in order to benefit from their properties.