Safety Information

Diffusing essential oils is one of the most effective ways to influence the atmosphere of a space, but proper ventilation and exposure limits are key.

Limit diffusion to 30-60 minutes at a time, then take a break. Overexposure can cause sensory fatigue and reduce effectiveness.

Ensure fresh air circulation—diffusing in a completely closed room can lead to air saturation and respiratory irritation.

Avoid prolonged direct inhalation (such as steam inhalation) for more than 5-10 minutes, as this may overwhelm the respiratory system.

Consider who shares the space—children, pets, and individuals with asthma or allergies may react differently to airborne essential oils.

In the bathroom, where rooms are usually small and humid, open a window or run the extractor fan when diffusing. Keep electric diffusers well away from sinks and bathwater.

Essential oils must always be diluted before applying to the skin to prevent irritation, burns, or long-term sensitization.

Dilution Guidelines for Safe Use:

• Face & sensitive areas: 0.5% (1 drop per 10mL carrier oil)
• General body application: 1-3% (1-3 drops per 10mL carrier oil)
• Targeted therapeutic use: Up to 5% (for short-term application, under professional guidance)

Patch Test Before Use: Apply a diluted drop to a small area of skin and wait 24 hours for any signs of irritation or reaction.

Wash hands after handling essential oils to prevent accidental contact with eyes, mucous membranes, or sensitive skin.

Essential Oils in the Bath

Oils don't dissolve in water. Dropped neat into a bath they float on the surface as concentrated drops that can come into intense contact with skin, and they make the tub slippery. A carrier is needed.

• Mix the oil with a carrier first: full-fat milk, Epsom salts, or a tablespoon of carrier oil (sweet almond, jojoba) all disperse essential oils so they don't pool on the water's surface.
• Keep the total dose modest: no more than 4–6 drops in a full bath, even when carried. Bath water magnifies skin exposure.
• Wipe the tub after use to prevent slippery residue, especially in baths used by children or older adults.
• Avoid neat oils in hot water, heat increases skin penetration and the risk of irritation.
• Citrus oils ask for extra care here: applied to skin (which a bath effectively does), then followed by sun exposure, they can cause burns or pigmentation. 

Phototoxic Oils & Sun Exposure

Certain citrus oils contain compounds that increase skin sensitivity to UV rays, leading to burns or pigmentation.

Avoid sun exposure for 12-24 hours after applying phototoxic oils, including:

• Bergamot (unless labeled "FCF" or furocoumarin-free)
• Cold-pressed lemon, lime, and grapefruit

For topical use in daylight, choose non-phototoxic alternatives or apply diluted oils to areas covered by clothing.

Essential oils should never be applied undiluted to children's skin—their skin is more permeable and sensitive.

Dilution Recommendations for Children:

• Under 3 months: Avoid essential oils.
• 3 months – 2 years: 0.25% (1 drop per 4 teaspoons of carrier oil).
• 2–6 years: 1% (1 drop per teaspoon of carrier oil).
• 6–12 years: 1.5–2% (approximately 3–4 drops per 10mL carrier oil)
  
  

Pregnant individuals should consult a professional before using essential oils. Some, like clary sage, basil, and cinnamon, may have hormonal effects.

Those who are breastfeeding should also exercise caution. Some compounds in essential oils can pass into breast milk, which may affect a nursing infant. As with pregnancy, consult a qualified aromatherapist before use, particularly with oils such as peppermint, which in large amounts may reduce milk supply.

For guests or shared spaces, consider scent sensitivities—some individuals may experience headaches or allergic reactions to strong essential oils.

Essential oils should NOT be ingested unless directed by a certified clinical aromatherapist.

Some essential oils (like tea tree, eucalyptus, and wintergreen) can be toxic even in small amounts if swallowed.

Essential oils should never be added directly to water for drinking, as they do not dissolve and can irritate the digestive system.

Some essential oils should not be used in aromatherapy at all due to the danger of toxicity, severe irritation, sensitisation or other serious health risk. Most responsible aromatherapy suppliers do not offer such oils, but those listed below do find their way onto the market and should only ever be used by those have have undergone the necessary specialist training.

• Bitter Almond oil (Prunus dulcis var. amara)

• Boldo Leaf oil (Peumus boldus)

• Calamus oil (Acorus calamus)

• Horseradish oil (Armoracia rusticana)

• Mustard oil (Brassica nigra)

• Parsley Herb oil (Petroselenium crispum)

• Pennyroyal oil (Mentha pulegium)

• Sassafras oil (Sassafras albidum)

• Savin oil (Juniperus sabina)

• Tansy oil (Tanacetum vulgare)

• Wintergreen oil (Gaultheria procumbens)

• Wormwood oil (Artemisia absinthium)

Store in dark glass bottles, away from heat and sunlight to maintain potency.

Keep essential oils out of reach of children and pets. Even a small accidental ingestion can be harmful.

Watch for oxidation. Some oils, especially citrus, degrade quickly—expired oils can cause skin irritation.

Always replace lids tightly after use to prevent evaporation and accidental spills.

1. Tisserand Institute: https://tisserandinstitute.org/safety-guidelines/

2. Tisserand, R., Young, R. (2014). Essential Oil Safety

3. UK Aromatherapy Council: https://www.a-t-c.org.uk/safety-matters/essential-oil-safety/

4. National Association for Holistic Aromatherapy (NAHA): https://naha.org/explore-aromatherapy/safety