Part 4: Models of Use

The French Model promotes taking essential oils internally and was advocated by several prominent aromatherapists, including Jean Valnet, Paul Belaiche, and Henri Viaud. Essential oils can have great effect when used internally. The French Model is highly successful in the area of health maintenance. When used with caution, internal use can safely address specific areas of need.

The confusion surrounding the internal use of essential oils is largely based on a lack of knowledge. Even though ample literature supporting the internal use of essential oils exists, most aromatherapy training programs do not teach this mode. Many aromatherapy programs adhere to the belief that ingestion of all essential oils is toxic, which is simply not true, as supported by the US Food and Drug Administration’s GRAS (Generally Recognized As Safe) list. Toxic reactions are the result of taking contaminated oils or taking excessive doses.