As essential oils are highly concentrated it is therefore important to follow the correct dosages that are recommended. In the case of oils, more is not better, in fact the opposite is true as it can have an adverse effect and the difference between one drop and two can actually be quite substantial.
General Cautions
Never take internally
Keep out of reach of children
Avoid using any essential oils near eyes and other sensitive areas
Always read the precautions on the bottle before using
Only use 100% pure essential oils
Keep oils away from any naked flame, therefore be careful if burning candles
Store oils in a sealed cool dark place
Never use neat (unless indicated)
Oils to Avoid During Pregnancy
Pregnancy oils - Avoid the following oils during pregnancy
Basil
Cedar aurantiumwood
Clary sage
Clove bud
Cypress
Jasmine
Juniper
Lemongrass
Marjoram
Peppermint
Rosemary
Thyme
Do not use essential oils on newborn babies.
Contraindications
Sunburn - Some oils can cause photosensitization of the skin which can in turn increase the risk of sunburn. Oils to avoid in this case are Bergamot, Ginger, Lemon, Lemon Verbena, Lime, Mandarin and Orange.
Sensitive skins - Avoid Basil, Fennel, Lemon-grass, Melissa, Orange, Peppermint and Thyme. (as skin test is always recommended on anyone with sensitive skin.
High Blood Pressure/Kidney disease/Epilepsy - Avoid Thyme, Sage, Cypress, Rosemary Oil and Cypress. Fennerl, rosemary or sage should especially be avoided if suffering from epilepsy.
Although the above is just a guide line you should always take care when using essential oils. If you would like to learn more about oils then take a basic aromatherapy course massage course.
We all know that essential oils are beneficial for a number of ailments, but to actually have a trusted and tried recipe for a certain ailment is a great way to make your own aromatherapy prescription. Below are a few ideas that you may find helpful for some typical summer ailments. It maybe a good idea to have one or two of these oils always in stock and you may even want to have a couple in your handbag.
Mixing & Blending Oils
Ylang Ylang oils
All essential oils need to be diluted at a rate of 0.5-3 per cent depending on the intensity of the essential oil. The lowest concentration (0.5-1 per per cent) are best used for facial oils and for those with sensitive skin or children under 12 years of age. On average 2 per cent for adults should be sufficient but in certain cases of muscular tension then 3 per cent will be beneficial. As for all the recipes use a good carrier oil to blend - olive oil, avocado oil, evening primrose oil are just a few that can be used.
Insect Repellent
Use one of the following: Eucalyptus, lavender, rosemary or tea tree
Apply 3 percent dilution of your chosen oil to the exposed parts (eg: arms and legs) - use a 1 or 2 per cent dilution for facial area.
Insect Bites & Stings
Use one of the following: Chamomile, eucalyptus, lavender, lemon or tea tree (tea tree and lavender can be used neat) unless you have an allergy to the these oils. A small patch test maybe useful before applying to the bite or sting if using neat oil. If swollen apply a cold chamomile and/or lavender compress.
Jellyfish Stings
Use one of the following: Eucalyptus, geranium, lavender
If you need to remove the tentacles off, protect your hand with an article of clothing then was with sea water and apply neat essential oil. Do not rub or rinse the affected area with fresh water as this can discharge unactivated stinging cells.
Wasp Stings
Since a wasp sting venom is alkaline, the most effective treatment is vinegar (preferably cider vinegar), this helps to neutralize the poison. Apply as often as required and to prevent infection add 1 drop of lavender oil.
Sunburn
Chamomile, eucalyptus, geranium, lavender, rosemary, tea tree
Take two or 3 cool aromatic baths throughout the day by adding up to 8 tablespoonfuls of cider vinegar and 8 drops of your chosen essential oil.
Article Source: http://EzineArticles.com/?expert=Trish_Kershaw
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