Essential Oils to Avoid

Essential oils affect the body in two ways. When applied to the skin, they penetrate through the follicles and sweat glands and are then absorbed into the body's fluids. Once inside the body, they have many beneficial effects including:

• Stimulating the immune system and strengthening against attack
• Speeding up the elimination of toxins
• Promoting new cell growth
• Stimulating digestion
• Stimulating blood circulation
• Promoting the body's natural healing processes.

Essential oils also enter the body through inhalation. The microscopic molecules are absorbed into the blood stream as the lungs oxygenate the blood. This makes them excellent for use in baths, vaporizers and even on candles. Aromatherapy also works on an emotional level, helping to calm and sooth the nerves and to promote a healthy sense of balance between the mind and body.

Essential Oils to Avoid

Certain essential oils should only be used by a qualified practitioner, and even then there are some that still should be avoided. Here is a list of essential oils to steer clear of and when to avoid them:

Diabetes - diabetics should avoid angelica

Epilepsy - because certain essential oils may over stimulate the nervous system, people with epilepsy should avoid fennel, rosemary and sage.

Hypertension - people suffering from high blood pressure should avoid hyssop, rosemary, all types of sage and thyme.

Pregnancy - due to the possible effects of essential oils on the growing child and also the uterine muscles, always consult and experienced aromatherapist before using essential oils during pregnancy. Nevertheless there are some oils that should be completely avoided. These include: Basil, laurel, angelica, thyme, cumin, aniseed, citronella and juniper.

Sensitive skin - people with very sensitive skin should avoid basil, laurel, coriander, tea tree, Neroli, geranium, mint, yarrow, Roman and German chamomile, lemon balm, citronella, ginger, hops, jasmine, lemon, lemongrass, (unless greatly diluted with a carrier oil), , turmeric and valerian. Conduct a skin patch test on a very small area on the inside of your wrist if you are uncertain of allergic reaction. If you notice any irritation, discontinue using the oil.

Toxicity - because of their strength and the chance of problems through regular prolonged use, several essential oils should not be used for linger than two weeks at a time. These include cinnamon, turmeric, valerian, laurel, juniper, aniseed, laurel, coriander, eucalyptus and juniper.

Dangerous oils - oils you avoid at all costs include bitter almond, red thyme, common sage, rue, wormwood, tansy, savory, wintergreen and sassafras. These oils can cause poisoning.