Possible side effects of essential oils
Remember that all essential oils, with the exception of Lavender, MUST be diluted before coming into contact with your skin.
Epilepsy
The following oils must not be used if you suffer from epilepsy, as they can trigger an attack.
Sweet fennel, Hyssop, Sage.
Pregnancy
The following oils should not be used during pregnancy.
Arnica, Basil, Birch, Cedarwood, Clary Sage, Cypress, Fennel, Jasmine, Juniper, Marjoram, Myrrh, Peppermint, Rosemary, Thyme.
High Blood pressure
The following oils should not be used by anybody suffering fron high blood pressure
Hyssop, Rosemary, sage, Thyme.
Skin Irritants
These oils should not be used by anybody with sensitive skin. they may also cause irritation for anybody when used in baths. Dilute 2-3 drops in a carrier oil before adding to the bath water.
Basil, Lemon, Lemongrass, Lemon Verbena, Melissa, Peppermint, Thyme, Tea Tree.
The following oils may irritate the skin in both massage and baths. Use dilution for baths as above and no more than 2% for massage. do not use if you have sensitive skin.
Cinnamon Leaf, Sweet Fennel, Siberian Fir Needle, Parsley Seed, Pimenta Leaf, Thyme.
Photosensitisation
the following oils can make the skin more sensitive o ultra violet light and should not be used before exposure to strong sunshine, sunbeds or other sources of ultra violet light.
Angelica, Bergamot, Cumin, Lemon, Lime, Orange, Verbena.
From 'Aromatherapy an A-Z' by Patricia Davis
