Cautions and Contra-indications when using essential oils

The following is a brief guide to the essential oils which should be avoided if you have any of the conditions listed below. It is not a definitive guide as opinions vary amongst aromatherapy professionals.

Essential oils are extremely potent and it is advisable to be aware of general safety precautions when using oils and their suitability to the particular application you are planning to undertake.

Pregnancy

It is recommended that basil, cedarwood, chamomile (early months), clary sage, geranium, jasmine, juniper, peppermint, rose, rosemary and thyme be avoided during pregnancy. Many other oils are safe to use in low dosages.

Babies

Caution is to be used when using any essential oils on babies, children and the also elderly. Aromatika’s mother and baby range has been especially formulated with appropriately reduced quantities of lavender, mandarin and chamomile, which are the oils recommended for use during pregnancy and for babies and young children.

Sensitive Skin

For those with sensitive skin, please take care when using essential oils on the skin (i.e. in massage or in creams) as skin irritations may occur. Aromatika’s formulations are very gentle, especially those suggested for sensitive skin, such as chamomile and calendula, but we cannot guarantee their suitability, so it is always best to patch test before buying.

Epilepsy

For those with epilepsy, be aware that several essential oils may trigger an epileptic seizure and these could include lavender, fennel and rosemary.

Photosensitivity

Several oils (particularly citrus oils) can cause a photosensitive skin reaction (darkening of pigmentation) if applied to the skin prior to exposure to sunlight. This includes bergamot and therefore it is not recommended that our bergamot & tea tree range be used before sunbathing.

Blood pressure – low or high

Rosemary should be avoided if you suffer from high or low blood pressure.

Individual allergies

Certain individuals may be aware of specific allergies to, for example, Lavender, fennel, aloe vera and should therefore avoid products containing these.

Nuts

Most of Aromatika’s creams contain certified organic oils derived from nuts – sweet almonds oil, apricot oil, macadamia oil.