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Phototoxicity and Essential Oils.

4/8/2015

This can occur when certain essential oil constituents, particularly furanocoumarins, (natural chemicals found in particular essential oils) react when exposed to Ultraviolet UVA light.
Inflammation, blistering and reddening/burning of the skin are most common to occur.
Citrus oils, as a group, are generally considered to be phototoxic. However, not all citrus essential oils are phototoxic, and the method of extraction as you see in the picture below.

You should not use these essential oils in creams or lotions or lip balms that stay on your skin while you are in the sun.

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Hydrosols- What are they and what do I use them for?

3/15/2015

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A hydrosol is the aromatic water that remains after steam-distilling or hydro-distilling botanical material such as lavender. The plant matter used in the distillation process imparts the hydrosol with the water-soluble aromatic and therapeutic properties of the plant.
Unlike essential oils that should be diluted prior to application to the skin, hydrosols are much gentler than their essential oil counterparts, it is prudent to treat hydrosols with respect and follow sensible safety precautions. Though hydrosols are generally considered safe for topical use, everyone is different. It is sensible to conduct a skin patch test when trying a hydrosol for the first time. As with essential oils, the rule of thumb is that less is more. Immediately prior to use, consider diluting your hydrosol further so that you use the least amount of hydrosol needed to achieve your desired result and keep from using up your hydrosols as quickly. Hydrosols contain only 0.002 – 0.005% essential oil molecules in 99.9% of the watery cellular water
distillate.
They are milder and often very effective. They can be used as a room spray and often can be taken in drinks. Just remember 1) use moderation, 2) do not spray directly into the face of a child or pet,
3) use herbs and hydrosols in the bath – about ¼ cup/bath for children and 4).. They can be uses diluted as a diaper rash helper in babies, non diluted as a spray for sleep issues, itchy skin and so much more. The best place to store them in your refrigerator. Take a class with someone who knows and has real education and can teach you like I can all about using them.

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Why is it important to use a carrier oil with an Essential Oil?

3/11/2015

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Undiluted Use of Essential Oils On the Skin Can Be Harmful and Potentially Cause Severe Irritation or Sensitization.
Treat essential oils with the same care that you treat medicines. If The symptoms of sensitization can vary from individual to individual, but think of it like a skin allergy that results in a severe and/or itchy rash. More severe cases of sensitization can potentially lead to respiratory issues or apparently even anaphylactic shock. Once you develop sensitization to an essential oil, you are likely to remain permanently sensitized to that essential oil, even if you begin to adequately dilute it. You may also develop a reaction to other essential oils as well and will also experience reactions to products that contain these oils.
Always do a patch test prior to using essential oils, just to make sure you are not allergic or sensitive to the oil. Essential Oils are wonderful but you need to know how to use them properly. The best way is with education and finding a good Trained Aromatherapist.

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Phototoxicity and Essential Oils.

Hydrosols- What are they and what do I use them for?

Why is it important to use a carrier oil with an Essential Oil?

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