Contraindications

Essential oils have many beneficial properties and can successfully help to aleviate most common nuisance and illness symptoms. However essential oils are drastic substances and as such they should be handled with caution. As far as blends are concerned suggested dosage must be followed and directions of safe use should always be taken under consideration.

Most essential oils, when used properly, are completely safe. But some essential oils have increased toxicity and some others should not be used when a person is suffering certain diseases. The following contraindication list is not exhaustive or final since research in the area of essential oils is continuing.

Toxic (use only in small quantities, maximum 2 drops / 30 ml, and preferably do not mix in the same blend): sage, aniseed, curcuma, nutmeg, rue.

Skin irritants in high quantities: basil, lemon, lemongrass, peppermint, thyme, melissa, bay laurel, cedarwood, cinnamon, citral (Cymbopogon citratus), curcuma, fennel, garlic, oregano, black pepper.

Fhototoxic (should be avoided in sunlight): angelica root, bergamot, cumin, lemon, orange, vervena, citronella, lime, lemongrass, clementine, fennel, ginger, grapefruit, rue, all citrus oils.

Asthma: camphor.

Epilepsy: galbanum, fennel, hyssop, sage, absinth, camphor, rosemary.

Diabetes: angelica root.

Hypertension: hyssop, rosemary, sage, thyme, cedarwood.

Hypotension: melissa, lemon, garlic.

Glaucoma: citral (Cymbopogon citratus),

Prostatic hyperplasia: citral (Cymbopogon citratus),


Pregnancy and breastfeeding: consult your doctor prior to using any essential oils and/or aromatherapy products and follow the directions of a trained aromatherapist.

Heart problems: consult your doctor prior to using any essential oils and/or aromatherapy products and follow the directions of a trained aromatherapist.