Essential oils & aromatherapy safety concerns

​

​

A Few Tips:

• Always choose glass bottles over plastic when creating your own blend and recipes using essential oils. When the glass isn't an option, opt for a PET plastic.

• Using more of essential oil doesn't enhance its benefits. Using too much increases your chance of getting a negative reaction, such as headaches, dizziness, and stomachaches. You can develop a sensitivity to an extent that you’re longer able to use a specific oil. We recommend always taking a break to allow your body to reset, by alternating the oil for a few days or simply pausing your use for a bit. 

• If a small amount of oil remains in a large bottle, transfer to a smaller bottle to reduce the risk of oxidation. 

• Keep essential oils away from open flames.

​

Shelf Life

Shelf life varies for each essential oil; it can take several months or years before an oil oxidizes. Some will evaporate quicker than others, and citrus oils are known to have the shortest lifespan. Below is the approximate shelf life of some essential oils:

• Citrus oils: About 1 year

• Frankincense: About 3 years

• Lavender: About 6 years

• Bergamot: About 4 years

• Patchouli: About 20 years​

• ​

The secret to extending shelf life is proper storage conditions. 

​

The following elements can cause an essential oil to lose its effectiveness:

• Heat: Store your essential oils at room temperature. 

• Light: Light can change the chemical composition of essential oils. To minimize this effect, we recommend keeping your essential oils away from sunlight and store them in tinted bottles. 

• Oxygen: Every time you open a bottle of essential oil, some ingredients in the oil will oxidize when exposed to air. Make sure to always close your bottles tightly. 

• Time: Essential oils mature with time.

All these factors can speed up the oxidation process of an essential oil, which can cause skin irritation and sensitization. Once essential oils have expired, they are no longer suitable for safe use. therefore they can be used to make your own cleaning products. To avoid wasting these natural products, consider purchasing essential oils with the intended use and the shelf life in mind. On the bottles of Tülu' products, we indicate the lot number of each oils, which tells you when they were produced and bottled.

​

Application Methods

Essential oils have a wide range of applications for both emotional and physical wellbeing. They can be used individually or as a blend with one of the following application techniques: Aromatic, Topical, or Internal. Aromatic and Topical applications are the most common and effective ways of using essential oils. Using essential oil internally should be done with extreme caution, after consulting a trained professional first and familiarizing yourself with safe practices. Low and precise dosage should be followed as ingesting essential oils can be damaging to the digestive system and liver. As essential oils affect us all differently, the dosage of an essential oil varies based on a person's age, size, health status, as well as the condition they are looking to improve. To safely and effectively use essential oils, often dilution is required. (Please note this applies for Tülu essential oils. We are not responsible for other companies' products).

​

AROMATIC USE

This includes any application method that helps you experience the aroma of the oil. You can use essential oils aromatically by:

• Diffusing it in an essential oil diffuser. We recommend ultrasonic diffusers as they don't change an oil's chemical structure. 

• Applying a drop to your hands and inhaling or by using a personal inhaler.

• Wearing as a personal fragrance by applying on the pulse points.

• Vaporizing on clothing, furniture, and bed. 

​

The aromatic application of essential oils can help you experience their stimulating, uplifting, calming or soothing nature. Diffusing essential oils can also cleanse and purify the air. Essential oils travel down the windpipe, entering the lungs and then the bloodstream. It takes just a few seconds for a scent to affect our limbic system that holds our stored memories and emotions. Also known as the “emotional brain”, the limbic system controls heart rate, stress levels, hormone balance, breathing and much more. Essential oils can stimulate a positive mindset and emotional wellbeing. 

​

TOPICAL USE

The topical use refers to applying an essential oil to the skin or body. Applying essential oils topically allows you to target specific areas of the body for desired effects and can promote healing, inside and out. Essential oils are easily absorbed by the skin, penetrating its surface and entering the bloodstream. Some examples of topical application are: 

• Through massage.

• Applying to targeted areas and rubbing it in.

• Adding to carrier oils, butters, lotions or moisturizers.

​

Depending on your condition and the region of application,  you need to determine whether to dilute the oil or blend. See our dilution guide in the image below for more information. Since essential oils are potent and volatile, diluting them with a carrier oils enhances the absorption into the bloodstream, and prevents sensitivity. Carrier oils are derived from seeds, kernels or nuts, such as Fractionated Coconut Oil, Jojoba Oil and Sweet Almond Oil. Other carriers include butters, clays, creams, gels, soaps, salts and waxes.  Natural carrier oils and butters have healing properties on our body and actually extend the benefits of essential oils. To avoid complications, we always recommend diluting essential oils, especially for oils that are potentially irritant or spicy (like cardamom, oregano, ginger). Remember that less is more. Essential oils are a resource-intensive product, diluting them helps preserve nature, and by lowering our consumption, we can protect endangered plant species. 

 

Always conduct a sensitivity test by applying the essential oil (diluted with a carrier oil following proper ratios) on a specific area of the skin first. Check for irritation or sensitivity for the next couple of hours. Note that dosages differ for adults and children and that dropper insert hole sizes vary from one company to another.  Essential oils are more effective when taken in small doses more often, rather than in large doses, less frequently. We always recommend starting with a low dose and increasing later if needed. Its application should be repeated as needed, in 2-4 hour intervals. If you've been using the same essential oil topically for an extended period of time, to avoid sensitivity, we recommend to pause taking it for 2-5 days or alternate it with a different essential oil that will provide you with the same benefits.  Keep in mind that some oils have higher irritation levels and on rare occasions, can cause allergic reactions. Some essential oils can affect your liver, which will depend on the essential oil and medication you are taking. Children or those with sensitive skin, must be extra cautious and start by first applying only a very small amount of diluted oil. It is advised that people with specific medical conditions should refrain from using certain essential oils. This can apply to people suffering from epilepsy, high blood pressure, or other severe conditions. Consult with your doctor if you are taking supplements or medication. 

​

The topical dilution for:

Cosmetic products (Face) : 0.2-1%

Body Massage: 1.5-3%

Bath and Bath Products: 1-3%

ChronicProblems: 1.5%-2%

Local Problem Area: 4-10% (Short term use)

First Aid: 1-20%(Very short term use)

​

INTERNAL USE

Ingesting essential oils is a very controversial mode of application and not something we encourage. First of all, not all brands' essential oils are safe to take internally and we encourage you to seek advice first. Internal application should only be for medicinal purposes and under the guidance of a professional for medicinal purposes. Taking essential oils internally has been found to be the least effective means of absorption. This application method is not suitable for children under 10 years. If you are already consuming essential oils internally, essential oils must be in low, precise and properly diluted dosages. When advised to take essential oils internally, we suggest adding 1 drop to 8 oz of full-fat milk, 1 tsp of olive oil, 1 tsp of honey or vegetable capsule filled with a carrier oil and to not exceed two drops a day. Never consume essential oils with water, as they are not water-soluble and will enter your body at full potency, potentially causing gastric irritation or liver damage. Avoid consuming any oil, if you are unsure of its safety. Note that essential oils are extremely potent; choosing to apply them topically or using them aromatically instead will be safer and more effective. The ingestion of essential oils may affect the liver, cause allergic reactions, stomach irritation, and burning, harm the gut flora and the mucosal lining of the digestive tract. Some are considered toxic, and taking them internally can be fatal. If you are advised to take essential oils internally by a professional, your use should not exceed more than 3 weeks. Long term application can lead to liver damage, impact the gut microbiomes and the mucosal lining of the digestive tract.  This should only again be done for medicinal purposes under the direction of a healthcare provider.

​

Remember:

- Essential oils are very potent.

- Essential oils and water don’t mix, causing the oils to remain separate. When drunk, they enter the system at full strength.

- Ingestion can cause stomach irritation, burning, affect the liver and allergic reactions.

- Inhalation or topical application may just be as effective and in some cases safer to do with greater benefits.

- Not all essential oil brand are safe for this purpose and we encourage you to seek advice

​

Essential Oils for Culinary Purposes 

Only pure essential oils should be used for culinary purposes. Remember that essential oils are very potent and only a small amount is needed. But make sure to seek guidance and consult with a professional before doing so. As essential oils are highly potent, only use them in very small dosages for food and high-fat beverages. For safe use, we recommend adding them to high-fat substances. Citrus oils can be a wonderful addition to desserts, yogurts, smoothies, vinaigrettes, marinades, sauce and dressings. When cooking with spicy oils, always use the toothpick method, using a toothpick to swirl around in your cooling dish as a good way to control the amount of essential oil used. Never reuse the same toothpick to dip in your bottles. Remember that less is more. (Please note this applies for Love and Lemons essential oils. We are not responsible for other companies' products).

​

Face Care

When applying essential oils to the skin, always use hydrosols, butters or carrier oils. We recommend a dilution ratio below 1%. Choose gentle oils such as Rose, Frankincense, Lavender and make sure to avoid the eyes and skin around it. 

​

Baths

As essential oils are not soluble in water, always use a dispersing agent for baths such as salt or carrier oil. We recommend a dilution ratio of approximately 3% to avoid irritation

​

Phototoxicity

Some essential oils are photosensitive and photo-toxic. Phototoxicity is an adverse reaction, which means that when applied to the skin and exposed to the UV light (sun and tanning beds), the essential oil will burn the skin, causing brown patches or blisters. It is best practice to avoid the use of certain essentials oils, to apply them to the unexposed part of your body or simply avoid contact with direct sunlight after application for at least 18 hours. Oils to avoid during or prior sunlight exposition are Bergamot,  Bitter Orange, Cassia, Cedarwood, Cinnamon, Clove, Cumin, Ginger, Grapefruit, cold-pressed Lime and Lemon, Lemongrass, Melissa and Patchouli. Citrus oils such as Mandarin, Tangerine, Sweet Orange, Yuzu, distilled Lime and Lemon are considered non-phototoxic. 

​

Skin Irritation

Applying an essential oil or blend to the skin can cause burning, redness, itching or marks on the skin. When this occurs, simply wash it off. Next time, use this oil with extra caution and dilute with a carrier oil. If you develop an allergic reaction, we suggest you stop using this oil and consult with your doctor. 

​

Children

Essential oils can be a wonderful way to support your child's overall health. But extra caution is required since babies and kids have very sensitive skin, are more susceptible to respiratory issues and their metabolism is not fully developed. Always use a low concentration of essential oils with babies and children and dilute them for babies. We recommended staying under a dilution ratio of 1%. Never let kids ingest essential oils and watch carefully for skin irritation. Kid-friendly essential oils include Bergamot, Chamomile, Cypress, Douglas Fir, Frankincense, Helichrysum, Lavender, Lemon, Lime, Mandarine,  Tangerine, Tea Tree, Sweet Orange, Yang Ylang and various pine oils. 

 

Some oils to avoid for children under 10 years old are Birch, Cinnamon, Clove Bud, Eucalyptus, Niaouli, Ravintsara, Rosemary, Saro and Wintergreen. Do not use Peppermint essential on kids under the age of 5 as it can affect their breathing. Essential oils high in 1,8 cineole or menthol should be avoided as it can cause issues to the respiratory system and to the nervous system. Hydrosols can be a safe alternative to essential oils, especially for children under 5. Please keep essential oils out of reach of children at all times.  Do not apply essential oils on a children's hands as they will likely transfer it to their eyes or mouth. In the case that essential oils have been swallowed, give the children milk to drink and contact your poison center. Medical attention is advised. 

​

Pets

Applying essential oils on pets is known to have health benefits. However, it is vital to do it safely and follow the proper guidelines: 

• Before using essential oil for your pet, collect as much information as possible and talk to an aromatherapist or veterinarian. 

• Animals have a much lower tolerance to essential oils than humans, and hydrosols can be a safe alternative. If using essential oils, apply only one at a time with the proper dilution ratio and never apply an undiluted oil on your pet. Essential oils should never be given internally to pets. 

• Avoid any irritant, toxic or carcinogenic essential oils.

• Store your essential oils away from pets and do not use or diffuse them in a confined space where your pet can't leave the room. An unwanted essential can be toxic to a cat or dog, so it is important to evaluate their response to an aroma and to not force it on them. Make sure you get your pet's approval first before using essential oils on them. 

• As carnivores, dogs respond well to inhalation and topical application. Cats, on the other hand, are very sensitive to essential oils and lack the enzyme that metabolizes certain compounds in essential oils. Essential oils that contain alcohols and phenols should be avoided for cats.  Therefore, all essential oils should be avoided to be used on your cat.

​

Pregnancy

During pregnancy, the body goes through dramatic hormonal changes. Unless advised otherwise by your doctor, we recommend using essential oils in very low doses with a dilution ratio of 1%. Some advice to avoid essential oils completely during the first trimester. After the first trimester, only apply gentle oils. These include Geranium, Yang Yang, Neroli, Petit Grain, Tangerine, Wild Orange, Lemon, Bergamot, Ginger, Patchouli, Cypress, Rose, Mandarin, Lavender, Roman Chamomile, Spearmint, Frankincense, Tea Tree and Marjoram. The essential oils to avoid during pregnancy, labor or breastfeeding are aniseed, basil, birch, camphor, hyssop, parsley, sage, tansy, tarragon, thuja, wintergreen and wormwood.

​

Medical Conditions

If you're on medication or have a medical condition and are in doubt about consuming essential oils,  please consult with your physician, pharmacist, or naturopath for advice and guidance. According to Tisserand and Young 2nd edition Essential Oil Safety, there is a possibility of drugs reacting to certain essential oils. Studies show that Grapefruit should be avoided when on medication or antibiotics as it can damage the liver function. If you are on Warfarin, make sure to avoid Wintergreen or Birch essential oils. Extra caution must be taken for anticoagulant drugs such as Aspirin, Heparin, and Warfarin. 

​

Asthma

Asthma patients should avoid steam inhalation, as it may trigger an asthma attack. People with breathing difficulties may react differently to certain essential oils, and oils that may trigger asthma attacks include Marjoram, Rosemary, Oregano and Yarrow. Oils that are considered safe to use are Lavender, Wild Orange, Mandarin, Roman Chamomile, Petit Grain, Eucalyptus, Niaouli, Clary Sage and Peppermint. We always recommend starting out with a low concentration and increasing the dose if no adverse reactions take place. Always smell an oil before using it and if you feel your chest opening and relax, this is considered a good sign. 

​

Chronic Kidney Disease

Due to their irritant properties, oils such as Black Pepper, Juniper Berry and Eucalyptus should be avoided.

 

Diabetes

The constituents of certain essential oils influence blood sugar levels, and may cause hyperglycemia or hypoglycemia if taken orally. These include Rosemary and Eucalyptus.

 

Diuretics

Anise oil may interact with diuretic medication (bendrofluazide, furosemide, spironolactone). 

 

Liver damage

Only the excessive use of an essential oil leads to liver damage. When over-consumed during internal application, Star Anise, Fennel, Cassia, Cinnamon Bark, Basil, Ravinsara, Cinnamon Leaf, Clove Bud and Clove Leaf essential oils can cause liver damage. 

​

Epilepsy

Some essential oils can have a convulsive effect. Epileptics who are not on medication are vulnerable, as well as undiagnosed epileptics and children. Essential oils that people suffering from epilepsy should completely avoid include Fennel, Juniper Berry, Rosemary and Sage. Oils that should be used with extra caution include Clary Sage, Peppermint, Yarrow, Lavender, Rosemary and Wintergreen.

 

High Blood Pressure

We recommend avoiding essential oils that are stimulating, such as Cypress, Clove, Rosemary, Cinnamon, Pine, Sage and Thyme. 

​

Low Blood Pressure

We recommend avoiding the use of Marjoram and Ylang Ylang

​