There are a lot of benefits for anyone who is ready to Essential Oil as a natural solution. However, it’s important to have an understanding of how to use them safely before getting started. Whether you have been using dōTERRA® products for years, or are just getting started, here are some safety guidelines.
The image shows four types of essential oil that you may come across for dōTERRA®.
Aromatic: Refers to breathing in, typically as done with a diffuser. (We have suggestions here.)
Internal: Refers to swallowing or ingesting.
Oral: Refers to placing oils within the mouth for cleansing or refreshing.
Dermal: Refers to topical use on the skin.
DOSAGE
Essential oils are fairly potent and powerful. Due to this only a small amount is necessary to achieve any desired effect. The chart listed within this blog refers to daily recommended dosage. It is not advised to exceed these as it is important to protect your body from being overwhelmed with improper amounts of oil.
APPLICATION
When applying essential oils, there are basic methods mentioned above. However, before you start using essential oils, make sure that you have a firm understanding of the best ways to apply them, appropriate dosages, and which areas to avoid. For example, you would not want to apply oils to any broken skin, or near one’s eyes.
DILUTION
This one is especially important for guidelines under the “dermal” category. Sometimes the essential oil to begin with have strong chemistry and it’s necessary to dilute it down so as not to agitate the skin or disrupt your digestive system. One method that has seen success in the past is to mix it with a “carrier oil”. Carrier oil’s are typically a pure vegetable oil that with ‘carry’ the oil to the skin. Carrier oils do not reduce the benefits of essential oils, often they help absorption last longer.
CHILDREN
As seen in the image, some dilution guidelines depend on the age of the recipient. Likewise when administering any other medicinal dosage to a child, essential oils typically need less as well. Like caution to not overpower the dosage by dilution, so it is for our little ones too. Children have more delicate and sensitive skin than adults. So you should always dilute oils before applying them to your kids.
STORAGE
Make sure to store your oils out of reach of small children. Bottles should always have the lid twisted back into place. In addition to a secure storage area it should also be kept out of direct sunlight, and away from heat. Light and heat can lessen the oils efficacy.
LAST NOTES
If you have any prior allergies or conditional concerns, it’s always good to consult your personal healthcare physician before use. Same for your kids. With this foundational knowledge, you can explore a variety of essential oils to know how to best utilize them for their health effect.