Essential Oil Safety

ESSENTIAL OIL SAFETY.

A Beginner Series for New Members

Essential oils are great to be used for children and pets, but one must learn how to use the oils safely. Find out how to use essential oils safely for different people and age groups.

GENERAL SAFETY

FIRST TIME USERS

If you are new to essential oils, always start with 1 drop or less; or dilute the essential oil with carrier oil. You can also perform a patch test by applying 1–2 drops of essential oils to a patch of skin such as the forearm. Observe that area of skin over the course of 1–2 hours for any noticeable reaction; however, reactions occur usually within 5–10 minutes. If you experience a hot or burning sensation or develop a rash, add V-6 or another carrier oil to the affected area as often as needed. When in doubt, applying an oil at the soles of the feet is the safest and most effective location.

SENSITIVE AREAS

Avoid contacting sensitive areas such as eyes, ears, genitals, and mucous membranes with essential oils. If you choose to use the oil in any sensitive area, dilute 1 drop of the essential oil with 5–10 drops of V-6 or another carrier oil.

HOT OILS

Hot oils are oils that can cause a hot or warming sensation when applied to the skin. Examples of hot oils and blends include Cinnamon, Clove, Lemongrass, Oregano, Thyme, Exodus II,, and Thieves. For some people, even Peppermint’s cooling sensation can be too intense. Always use a patch test procedure prior to first use.

OILS AND WATER DON’T MIX

When an oil irritates the skin or the eyes, NEVER wash with water. Water will drive the oil further INTO the skin. Use V6 or an organic vegetable oil base to slow down the absorption and ease the irritation.

PHOTOSENSITIVE OILS

Citrus oils and any blends containing them are photo-sensitive. This means that the oil will cause the darkening of skin when exposed to sunlight after application. Such oils should either be applied to areas well-covered or avoided for at least 24 – 48 hours before sun exposure. The commonly used ones are Lemon, Orange, Tangerine, Grapefruit, Bergamot, Lime, Citrus Fresh and Joy.

MEDICAL CONDITIONS

Epileptics and those with high blood pressure may want to consult their health care professional before using essential oils – and – avoid using Hyssop, Fennel and Idaho Tansy oils.

NEVER USE PLASTIC

When adding the oils to beverages, always use glass or ceramic containers. The oils will break down plastic toxic materials.

PREGNANT WOMAN & YOUNG CHILDREN

PREGNANT WOMEN

As with any medical condition, we strongly recommended that prior to using essential oils, you seek the advice and recommendation of a competent, trained health care advisor who is experienced in essential oil usage. Some people choose to avoid over and excessive use of Clary Sage, Sage, Idaho Tansy, Hyssop, Fennel and Wintergreen, as well as the blends and supplements that contain these oils. For your own peace of mind, you should only use the oils only if you are comfortable with it and seek professional medical advice before hand.

YOUNG CHILDREN

Many essential oils are appropriate for use on children but should be diluted with a carrier oil prior to use. Some Young Living products come pre-diluted with carrier oil, as indicated on product labels, and are intended for direct application on children. However, as a general rule, you can follow the following dilution methods for your child.

🍼 BELOW THE AGE OF 2: Drop 1 drop of oil into your own palm, rub the palms together gently for 10 counts before applying to the child – this would be considered the easiest way to get less than one drop of essential oil on the child. Alternatively, you can also choose to dilute 1 drop of essential oil to 20 – 30 drops of carrier oil and roll it onto the base of the child’s feet.

🎈 FROM THE AGE OF 2–5: For toddlers, you can apply 1 drop of essential oil. Alternatively, dilute 1 drop of essential oil to 10 – 20 drops of carrier oil.

⚽️ ABOVE 5 YEARS OF AGE: You can apply 1-2 drops. If a child of any age is new to the essential oils, you may always consider going more conservative and use the dilution ratios above.

VIDEO - OILING GUIDELINES

Find out more about oiling your child and your pet here in the videos below. However, do note that these are simply examples, and that users must exercise their own caution when oiling.