How Do I Use Essential Oils Safely?
Traditionally, certain essential oil application methods have been preferred or used exclusively. However, as the research surrounding essential oils continues to develop, a greater understanding of application methods is now understood. Essential oils are usually administered by one of three methods: aromatically, applied topically to the skin, or taken internally as a food additive. They can be used a single oil at a time or in complex blends in one of three methods:
Topical
Topical application is a very effective method for applying essential oils. Because essential oils have low molecular weights and are lipid soluble, they can stay on your skin.
To decrease the likelihood of developing a skin sensitivity, especially for sensitive skin, it is advisable to use a carrier oil (such as Fractionated Coconut Oil) to dilute oils and when trying an oil for the first time. The recommend dilution ratio is typically one drop of essential oil to three drops of carrier oil.
It’s always advisable to use several small doses throughout the day rather than a single large dose. Start with the lowest possible dose (1–2 drops). A topical dose can be repeated a couple of times a day. Because every individual is unique, the dose can vary between individuals based on size, age, and overall health status.
Beneficial Areas You Can Apply Essential Oils
- Neck
- Forehead and temples
- Chest and abdomen
- Arms, legs, bottom of feet
Other Effective Methods of Topical Application
- Add a few drops of oil to a warm bath
- Make a hot or cold compress by soaking a towel or cloth in water, adding essential oils, and then applying to the desired area
- Add oil to a lotion or moisturiser and then apply to skin
Sensitive Areas to be Avoided:
- Some facial areas, such as the skin around the eyes
- Eyes and inner ears
- Broken, damaged, or otherwise injured skin
Internal
Certain flavours have a rich culinary history and some essential oils can be used as food flavours. When you sip a mug of peppermint tea, or add fresh herbs to your pasta, you are actually consuming some aromatic essential oil compounds. These uses are safe when oils are used in appropriate quantities, in accordance with product labels.
Essential oils contribute many flavouring and aromatic properties to foods. However when used for food flavourings, essential oils should be added in very limited amounts due to their concentration and potency.
Essential oils are highly concentrated, so a little goes a long way. It is recommended that 1-2 drops is ideal to flavour food.
doTERRA essential oils for food flavouring meet the requirements of the India Food Standards Code for food additives.
Effective Ways to Flavour Food
- Use oils in recipes for cooking or baking to replace fresh or dried herbs and spices
- Remember that essential oils are much more potent than dried or fresh herbs and spices, so start with a very small amount
- For more potent oils, it may be better to add these by toothpicks (dip the end of a clean toothpick into the oil and then add to the food) rather than drops
- Add essential oils to water, smoothies, milk, tea, or other drinks
- Add a small amount of food flavour to yoghurt
*Oils for food flavouring meet the needs of the India food standards code for food additives.
Always look at the product label or Product Information Page (PIP) on the website for how each essential oil can be used.