Nature's Table-essential oils Precautions!!!! by Annalies Schmaltz

[Dept of PMM Artists & things]

Precautions for using essential oil:

There is a lot of advantages to using essential oils BUT there are certain
circumstances that one needs to be aware of and take precautions.

If you are receiving medical treatment for conditions such as heart disease,
high blood pressure or cancer, do ask the physician for permission.
Many health practitioners now recommend gentle massage or aromatic
baths to reduce the anxiety that can accompany chronic illness.

When you have obtained permission from the doctor to combine the use
of aromatherapy with the conventional treatment, keep to low-strength use
of the essential oils. Use 3-4 drops in a bath, or 1-2 drops in 5ml carrier oil
when using for massage.

During Pregnancy:
There are no specific evidence that it can harm the unborn child but it is
however, important to remember that the skin becomes more
permeable and sensitive during pregnancy, so here also keep to the low-
strength of the essential oils. However avoid using essential oils
during the first three months. Then thereafter avoid oils such as:
black pepper, cedarwood, clary sage, eucalyptus, fennel, juniper berry,
marjoram, peppermint, pine and rosemary.
   
Heart disease and high blood pressure:
There is no evidence that the essential oil will worsen any existing circulatory
problem but it is safe to stay clear of: Rosemary and pine oils .

Cancer:
Intense massaging must be avoided as it may cause cancer cells to migrate
to other areas of the body via the lymphatic system. In many cases,
however, gentle stroking of unaffected areas, such as hands, face or
feet, is benenfical. Before massaging anyone who has had chemo or
radiation therapy in the past 12 months, please get the doctors approval.

Epilepsy:
Sage, Rosemary, Fennel and Hyssop may provoke seizures in epileptics.
Avoid epileptics inhaling undiluted essential oils, Here again keep to a low-
strength use of essential oils.