Aromatherapy/aromatherapy dangers

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Expert: - 8/2/2006


Question
I read that there are essential oils that should never be used in aromatherapy for example: almond bitter,mustard,sage,pine(dwarf) My question is why can't they be used and what can be the side effects

Answer
Hi Jose

Many esential oils contain certain elements that when used in excess can have nasty side effects. For instance, Peppermint oil is fantastic for it's cooling effects when used in very small quantities, and warming when used in slightly higher quantities, but used in large quanties it will burn the skin.

Most essential oils are capable of taking the surface off  polished wood ! They are after all, highly concentrated, and have to be diluted before using them in aromatherapy.

However there are some oils that are more dangerous than others and it has been generally decided that they are best avoided. There are so many good alternatives to these, it is not necessary to risk using them.
The first two you mention are highly toxic:

Almond bitter contains Prussic acid which is a poison.

Mustard essential oil contains allyl isothiocyanate and is one of the most toxic of essential oils, as it is toxic internally as well as when applied to the skin. It is also a mucous membrane irritant.

The second two oils you mention are not quite so harsh and some therapists use them very effectively.

Dwarf Pine - can be a skin irritant, and Sage contains a substance called thujone, which is toxic if taken internally.However you would need to use quite large quantities to do harm.
Again if someone is likey to react to these oils, there are many good, safe alternatives.

I think the best way to use these 'harsh' oils as follows :

1 Always find out if the person to be treated has any allergies or conditions that a harsh oil might trigger.If in doubt, don't take the risk.
Some examples would be - early pregnancy, epilepsy,heart condition.

2  Only ever use small quantities - 1 or two drops per application.Less is definitely more with aromatherapy. You don't need much for good effect.

3  Use in conjunction with oils that will counteract the harsh effects. ( Lavender, with the Pine would counteract the possible skin irritation)

4 Get a good sensible aromatherapy book that gives lists of oils and their uses.

I hope this answers your question.  

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Judy Frayne

Expertise

I specialise in the mixing of oils. Every problem has a different solution depending on the underlying causes.A simple headache could be caused for a number of different reasons. Tracking down the origins of a problem is the first step. I can then advise on the correct oils to use,how to buy them and the methods with which they can be applied. I can also recommend other complimentary techniques for self help with many physical and emotional problems. Feel free to ask about: Skin disorders - eczema, psoriasis,atheletes foot Muscular aches and pains - arthritis, neck and shoulder tension. Painkilling - headaches, chronic pain, backache. Digestive disorders - IBS, constipation. Stress - depression, anxiety, grief, anger, concentration. Medicine cupboard - bites, stings, cuts, bruises,burns. Babies and childrens - tummy aches, colds, sleep problems. And many more !

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I have been a qualified aromatherapist for twelve years, working in my own premises as well as mobile visiting. My clients have been varied - ranging from babies to the elderly and sadly,the terminally ill. Whilst many clients simply wish to use aromatherapy to promote a feeling of well being and keep themselves relaxed and healthy - I have had much experience of clients with specific needs. These are just as wide ranging - from skin disorders to back problems on the physical side - to the emotional and spiritual side of things and problems such as coping with grief and bereavement or helping combat anger and stress. I use a mixture of techniques including reflexology. I believe that aromatherapy is a very simple and natural method of self help that can compliment conventional techniques. I am passionate about passing on safe and sensible advice so that more people feel confident to try aromatherapy for themselves. Aromatherapy is not always a cure - but it's potency should never be underestimated. It can help, it can be life changing - and it's certainly worth trying

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