by Joan Haynes, NMD
Last week, another patient with essential oil burns on her body came in to the clinic. Since she had no idea that the oils were the cause, she was continually using more and different oils, encouraged by a well-meaning, essential oil distributor – thus causing the rash to blister and weep. Sadly, this scenario is common. Many people think that “natural” means “safe”. But essential oils are highly concentrated substances that can have useful but also toxic effects on the body. One drop of the oil can be the equivalent to 10-50 cups of the herbal tea. Since essential oils have become so popular, it is important we understand their risks, especially if we are using them with children, pets, and during pregnancy.
For a good overview, here is an article by Katie Wells aka Wellness Mama, a very reliable website for you to get useful information about essen
tial oils and many other natural health topics.
This popular Dr. Axe’s article talks about diffusing essential oils and lists safety aspects for specific oils, including which ones can cause sun sen
sitivity and which ones are to not be used in pregnancy.
If you use essential oil with your children, please read this article written by a naturopathic physician in Montana, who has put together very good information for there safe use.
There have been recent articles warning cat owners about the dangers of essential oils. There is some evidence that their livers cannot metabolize compounds in essential oils. Here is an article that talks about essential oils and both dogs and cats.
This article is by a veterinarian who says that essential oils, when used properly, are likely safe for our cats.
Essential oils can be great medicine when used properly. Please inform yourself and be careful. There is a lot of misinformation out there!