How Essential Oils Can Cause You Serious Harm

Essential oils have been around for a very long time, but recently they have been trending on social media feeds. Often bloggers, companies and even family and friends are recommending different brands of essential oils, claiming they are the solution to all that troubles us. Even though essential oils are mostly natural and they do have certain health benefits it does not mean that they do not have unsafe components. Here are a few key points to keep in mind before using essential oils.

Skin Discoloration, Swelling, Burning, And Sores

A few essential oils can cause burning when exposed to ultra-violet (UV) lighting. So, before laying out in the sun at the beach or heading to a tanning salon, it is important to ensure that you wait at least 12 hours once a photosensitizing oil has been applied to the skin. Depending on the oil and length of exposure to the sun, skin reactions from certain oils can range from mild discoloration to severe swelling and blistering burns.

Essential oils that may cause sun sensitivity include, but aren't limited to; grapefruit, lemon & lime, cumin, and bergamot essential oils.

Keep reading to discover how dangerous essential oils can be for pregnant women and babies.

Danger To Babies And Pregnant Women

It is imperative that pregnant woman and mother’s who are breastfeeding use essential oils with caution. When they are used, essential oils should be heavily diluted with either water or a carrier oil, like coconut oil, jojoba oil or avocado oil. However, Rosemary and Lavender should never be used under any circumstance on pregnant women or babies under one year of age, even when diluted. It is best to stay safe and use products that are made specifically for infants and pregnant women instead of taking the risk. Essential oils should be treated like any medicine and kept out of reach of children of all ages. It is recommended that infants and women who are pregnant or breastfeeding avoid the following oils, among many others: Sage, basil, tarragon, wintergreen, and parsley seed.

Keep reading to learn other ways that essential oils can cause you serious harm.