Aromatherapy Safety: Risks, Precautions & Potential Hazards

Essential oils are used in aromatherapy relaxation, baths, rituals and massage because of their mood-altering affects. Although they are natural products, essential oils are very concentrated and intense, and certain precautions should be followed when using them.

Allergies

• You may have an allergic reaction to aromatherapy oils, and these oils can trigger an asthma attack. Allergic reactions are more likely if the oils come close to the mouth, eyes, nose or mucous membranes.

Skin Irritation

• Essential oils can cause skin irritation. You should do a patch test on your skin with the oil before proceeding with a massage or bath.

Nausea

• Certain aromatherapy oils may cause nausea and vomiting if you are undergoing chemotherapy or otherwise feel ill, particularly if you have a negative association with that particular scent.

Overdoing It

• It's possible to overdo aromatherapy and not feel well afterward. If the instructions call for two drops, it is not advisable to use, for example, six drops for a more potent therapy.

Caution

• Store aromatherapy oils where children and pets cannot reach them; some smell sweet and delicious, enticing small children and animals to drink them.