Don’t be fooled by the fact that essential oils are all-natural and have been used for centuries. Just because these oils are from nature doesn’t mean they aren’t harmful when misused. Misuse leads to some extreme instances from time to time.
The dangers range from skin burns to internal bleeding. It’s important to be aware of the common essential oil mistakes people tend to make so you can avoid them.
Essential oils are concentrated oils extracted from various parts of plants. This can be the flower, leaves, bark, roots, or any other part of the plant. The oil contains the plant’s scent as well as its therapeutic properties. Some popular essential oils are lavender, peppermint, and sandalwood.
Let’s look at the common mistakes people make with essential oils.
1. Overusing or Misusing Essential Oils
Essential oils are very concentrated and powerful, so it is important to use them sparingly. You’ll just need a drop or two to gain the essential oil benefits. Be sure to research each oil before using it. This is critical if you plan on applying it right onto your skin or ingesting it in any way.
2. Applying Undiluted Essential Oils to the Skin
This is one of the most common mistakes people make with essential oils. Because they are so potent, they need dilution before applying them to the skin.
You can do this by adding a few drops of essential oil to a carrier oil like jojoba oil or coconut oil. This helps to spread the oil over a larger surface area and prevents it from being too concentrated in one spot.
When you dilute essential oils in this way, they are known as aromatherapy oils. You can learn more about the differences at aromatechscent.com
3. Not Reading the Label or Researching an Oil Before Use
Each essential oil is different and has its own unique properties. Some oils are photosensitive, which means they react in a negative way to sunlight and can cause rashes or burns. Others should not be used if you’re pregnant or nursing. Be sure to read the label carefully and do your research on your essential oil provider before using any new oil.
4. Storing Essential Oils Incorrectly
Store essential oils in a cool, dark place. This helps to preserve their potency and prevent them from going bad. Avoid storing them in direct sunlight or near any heat source.
Many people also make the mistake of not sealing their essential oils well after each use. This lets air in and causes the oil to oxidize and lose its potency. Be sure to store your oils in a dark glass bottle with a tight-fitting lid.
5. Ingesting Essential Oils
This is a big no-no and can be dangerous. Some essential oils can cause internal bleeding or other serious health problems if ingested. Stick to using them topically or diffusing them into the air to avoid any risks.
Avoid These Common Essential Oil Mistakes
We hope you found this guide on the common essential oil mistakes helpful. Now you can avoid them and use these potent oils without concern. Be sure to do your research, use carrier oil, and store them well to get the most out of your essential oils.
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