HOW TO USE ESSENTIAL OILS SAFELY

Essential oils are powerful and should be used with care! It’s really important to do your research when choosing what essential oils to use and how to use them. The idea that “if a little is good, a lot is better” is not true with essential oils. We recommend starting low and going slow. In most cases, 1–2 drops is enough. Because oil quality can vary across brands, please note that these recommendations are only for Young Living essential oils.

CARRIER OILS
A carrier oil is an oil that can be used to dilute essential oils. Carrier oils include Young Living’s V-6 Vegetable Oil Complex, coconut oil, jojoba oil, olive oil, hempseed, and grapeseed oil. Carrier oils ensure that essential oils applied topically are comfortable and safe. Dilution with a carrier oil does not lessen the effect of the essential oil; it actually acts as a buffer to the essential oil and allows it to absorb into the skin and bloodstream more slowly, which is important for your body if you are new to using oils. Carrier oils can help prevent waste due to excessive application and evaporation. They can be mixed with essential oils in a roller bottle, in the palm of your hand, or in a glass bowl. You can always apply additional carrier oil on top of essential oils if the effect of the essential oil on your skin is too strong.

BE AWARE
Excessive use of essential oils (especially undiluted) may increase the risk for adverse reactions. A rash may be a sign of petrochemicals leaving the body. Drink plenty of water and consider an internal cleansing program to encourage the release and removal of toxins in a safe and comfortable way. Toxins present in conventional soaps and skin care products, detergents and perfumes can trigger negative reactions. We strongly recommend considering discontinuing use of these agents upon beginning use of essential oils. Essential oils can help support the body’s natural detoxification processes and if chemicals are constantly being reintroduced onto your skin and into your body, essential oils will continue to enhance your body’s attempt to get rid of them—sometimes this can create a skin reaction that many people mistake for a “negative reaction” to the oils.

BABIES & CHILDREN
When using essential oils on babies and children, it is always best to overdilute. For babies, start with a ratio of 1-2 drops of essential oil to 1 tablespoon of carrier oil. For children, start with 1 drop of essential oil with 10 drops of a carrier oil. If the oils are used in a bath, always use Epsom salts or a bath gel base as a dispersing agent for the oils. Oils that are dangerous to ingest have childproof caps, but always keep essential oils out of children’s reach. If an oil is ever ingested by a baby or child, give them an oil-soluble liquid such as milk and then seek medical attention.

PREGNANCY & BREASTFEEDING
As with any medical condition, it is strongly recommended that prior to use of essential oils, you seek the advice and recommendation of a health care professional who is experienced in essential oil usage.

EAR ISSUES
Always apply oils around the ear and
down the lymph nodes instead of directly in the ear. Some diluted oils can be applied to a cotton ball and placed gently inside the ear opening.

HOT OILS
“Hot oils” are oils that can cause a hot or burning sensation when applied topically. Examples include Cinnamon, Clove, Lemongrass, Peppermint, Oregano, and Thieves. Always dilute these oils when using on the skin.

DISCOMFORT
If discomfort or irritation occurs, stop using the essential oil, and apply a carrier oil to the affected area. Never use water in an attempt to flush the oil off the skin or eyes, as it will drive the oil deeper and intensify the reaction. If an essential oil gets in your eye, flush with a carrier oil to alleviate any discomfort. If eye discomfort does not subside within 5 minutes, please seek medical attention.

PRESCRIPTION MEDICATION
If you have a disease or medical condition, or if you are using a prescription medication, it is recommended that you consult with a health professional who has experience with essential oils prior to use. Seek the advice of the prescribing physician and a pharmacist about potential interactions between the medication(s) and the essential oil(s).

SUN SENSITIVITY
When used topically, some oils can react with UV light and can cause photosensitivity. Avoid sun exposure on any area on which you have applied the following oils for 8-10 hours after application, or use a good quality sunblock to protect your skin: Angelica, Bergamot, Citrus Fresh, Clarity, Dill, Gentle Baby, GeneYus, Grapefruit, Hinoki, Inner Child, Joy, JuvaCleanse, Lemon, Lime, Orange, Peace & Calming, SleepyIze, Slique Essence, Stress Away, Tangerine, Transformation, Trauma Life, TummyGize, White Angelica. This is not an exhaustive list so check ingredients for citrus oils before applying and going into the sun.

PETS & OILS
Dilute oils before applying to pets, especially cats. Be sure your pet can leave a room while diffusing. Dogs and cats absorb oils through their fur, so even diffusing may result in topical administration. When it comes to oils and pets, less is more. Just like in humans, consult an animal healthcare provider with knowledge of essential oils before starting any routine.