Pure essential oils are complex plant hormones, which are very concentrated and have a very powerful effect on the mind and body.

They can contain dozens of complex natural chemical constituents that can work in synergy to sedate, energise, relieve, beautify, relax, detoxify etc stimulate circulation, ease rheumatic pain, menopausal problems, cellulite, coughs and colds. It is vitally important that you consult a Qualified Aromatherapist before using essential oils and adhere strictly to warnings given .

Please contact Anne Welby on 0843 289 6917 with any queries.

• Essential oils are very concentrated and potent.
• Even small amounts can cause harm if used improperly.

Here are my tips on how to use essential oils safely.

Do not apply undiluted essential oils directly to your skin, because they are too concentrated and may lead to a burn.
Essential oils are absorbed through the skin, so using too much can result in an overdose.

Make sure you store essential oils out of the reach of children.

Do not get essential oils in your eyes, nose, or ears. Wash your hands thoroughly after using essential oils. If working with pure essential oils, you may want to get disposable latex gloves (or latex-free alternatives) from the drug store.

Do not take essential oils internally. Even small amounts can be toxic and potentially fatal if ingested.

Before going out in the sun or to a tanning booth, avoid essential oils that increase your sensitivity to the sun, such as citrus oils (e.g. bergamot oil, grapefruit oil).

Do a patch test if you have allergies or think you might be sensitive to an essential oil. Test aromatherapy products (such as lotions or creams) by applying a small dab to your arm. For pure essential oils, add one drop in 2.5 mL (or 1/2 teaspoon) of vegetable oil and apply it to your arm. If the area turns red, or if there is burning or itchiness, wash the area and do not use that product.

Overuse of essential oils can trigger a headache or dizziness. Don't exceed recommended amounts. If you're working with essential oils (e.g. making your own lotions, candles, or bath salts) make sure you're working in a well ventilated area or take breaks to go outside.

If you have a medical condition, consult a qualified practitioner before using essential oils. Certain essential oils should not be used by people with certain conditions.

People with liver or kidney disease should only use essential oils under the guidance of a qualified practitioner. Once absorbed in the bloodstream, essential oils are eventually cleared from your body by the liver and kidneys--using essential oils excessively may injure these organs.

Consult a qualified practitioner if you are using any medication, because essential oils may interact with certain medications. For example, relaxing essential oils such as chamomile, lavender, and melissa (lemon balm) may heighten the effect of sleeping pills or sedatives

Safety Guidlines for Using Essential Oils

• Always read label cautions and warnings.
• Never ingest essential oils.
• Do not use oils directly on the skin. (Dilute with vegetable oils).
• Keep essential oils away from the eyes and mucous membranes.
• Please keep all essential oils out of reach of children and pets.
• During pregnancy Please consult an experienced aromatherapist. Most advise using NO essential oils during the first trimester (3 months ).
• Essential Oils should be stored away from harsh lighting or sun, in a cool dark area away from heat.
• Do not leave uncapped, as they are highly volatile and evaporate easily.
• May be refrigerated to extend shelf life.

Disclaimer

Essential Oils are not intended for use in treatment for specific medical conditions. For treatment of health ailments, please seek diagnosis and recommendations from a licensed practitioner. Some Essential Oils are contraindicated during pregnancy. Please seek advice from your health care provider.

Safety Precautions:

Do not take essential oils internally. Avoid contact with eyes.
Safety Data: Always check with specific safety data before using a new oil, especially with regard to toxicity levels, phototoxicity, dermal irritation and sensitization.
Contra indications: Take note of any contra-indications when using oils.
Pregnancy: Take note of those oils that are contra-indicated in pregnancy.
Babies & Children: Use with care, in accordance with age Babies (0-12 months): Use 1 drop of lavender, rose, chamomile diluted in 10ml base oil for massage or bathing
Infants: (1-5 years) Use 2-3 drops of safe essential oils (non-toxic and non-irritant to the skin, diluted in 10ml base oil for massage or bathing.
Children: (6-12) Use as for adults, but in half the stated amounts.

The following oils should NOT be used in Aromatherapy:

Mugwort, Rue, Sassafras, Tansy, Thuja, Wormwood

How Aromatherapy Works

Aromatherapy is the inhalation and bodily application by massage of essential oils from aromatic plants. The oils are renowned for their proven therapeutic properties. These pure essential oils are extracted from many parts of the plant including the flowers, leaves, resin, bark, roots and twigs. Only pure unadulterated oils have the unique therapeutic potential required and care should be taken in selection, storage and blending.

The molecular structure of the oils allows them to be absorbed into the blood stream through the skin or through inhalation into the olfactory system, which is closely aligned to the limbic system where our memories are stored. Once in the bloodstream the unique properties of the oils will be realised.

A skilled therapist will consult with a client to determine their mental physical and emotional state and then tailor a customised treatment plan with a massage regime and blends of carefully chosen oils. The objective is to treat the ailment or condition where possible, relax or stimulate the client where necessary and to restore balance within the mind, body and spirit.