Essential oil safety guide - Part 2
There have been instances where individuals have expressed concern for essential oil sensitivity and allergies. Let's dive into those topics!
Avoiding Essential Oil Sensitivity
Safe use of essential oils varies from individual to individual. This is why it’s important to consider your own personal needs when it comes to safety. For example, some people have sensitive skin, which simply means that they will need to dilute more potent essential oils. In certain cases, you may need to refrain from using a particular essential oil if it causes sensitivity when you use it. However, you can often use a smaller amount of oil, or alter your application method to avoid sensitivity.
Is It Possible to Have an Allergic Reaction to Essential Oils?
Some people ask, “Can you have an allergic reaction to essential oils?” An allergic reaction occurs when the body experiences an abnormal immune reaction after exposure to a protein molecule that is typically harmless. CPTG Certified Pure Tested Grade™ essential oils are completely made up of aromatic compounds found in nature; they don’t contain any protein molecules, so they don’t cause allergic reactions in the same way that, for example, peanuts or eggs might.
However, with some people, essential oils can bind to proteins in the skin and create a type of molecule that the body may recognize as an allergen, creating an allergic response. This process depends on many things, such as the type and amount of oil being used, the person’s individual protein levels, and even genetics.
Sensitivity to an essential oil can cause responses in the skin, digestive system, respiratory system, and other areas of the body.
Signs of an essential oil sensitivity or allergic reaction include:
Pain, swelling, or tenderness in the skin
Skin irritation (such as itching, rash, or hives)
Difficulty breathing
Stomach upset
What to Do If you Experience a Reaction to Essential Oils
If you experience any of the symptoms listed above, it’s important to stop using that essential oil immediately so that you don’t make the reaction worse. It’s advisable to take a break from the application method that caused the reaction (for example, if you have a skin reaction, avoid topical use for a while) and choose other ways to enjoy the benefits of the oil.
For severe reactions, seek medical treatment if needed. doTERRA has a system that allows you to report any adverse reactions you might have. To report any adverse reactions, simply contact doTERRA Member Services.
Are Essential Oils Toxic?
Essential oils are safe to use, as long as the appropriate dosage and application methods are observed. In the most extreme cases, exceeding dosage recommendations for oils can lead to toxicity. Toxicity is when a substance reaches a point that it becomes harmful or damaging to the body. Any substance can become toxic if used in an inappropriate dose. Even natural, seemingly harmless substances like water, minerals, or vitamins, can become toxic when used or consumed in excess.
How to handle an oil sensitivity
If you develop a sensitivity to an essential oil, you can make a few adjustments to avoid further sensitivity or discomfort. Since sensitivity to an essential oil isn’t the same as an allergic reaction, you may still be able to use that essential oil with a different form of application.
For example, if you experience sensitivity after using an essential oil internally, you may still be able to use it aromatically or topically. Essential oil sensitivity can also be caused by dosage. If you’ve experienced sensitivity with a particular essential oil in the past, you might try diluting the oil, or simply taking a smaller dose to see if the sensitivity was caused by a higher dosage.
In part 3 of the next blog we'll talk about safety methods for topical, aromatic and internal usage.