Natural Remedy Safety Precautions

It's essential to remember that just because something is natural doesn't mean there aren't precautions to take. Like medicines, most herbs are taken in dosages, and there are limitations on how often and for how long you can use them. Always do your research before trying any new herb.

 

  • Essential oils are never to be taken (swallowed) internally without consulting an expert in essential oils. Some are highly poisonous. Generally speaking, the only essential oils considered acceptable for internal use are GRAS oils derived from plant-based foods used in the diet and for culinary purposes, such as cinnamon, lemon, orange, or rosemary. Still, even these can be toxic in minute amounts. So, as a general rule, never ingest essential oils, not even when diluted.

 

  • Too much heat from very hot water or direct sunlight can change essential oils' chemical structure and cause them to evaporate more quickly, making them less effective. Water in a pot on the stove should be kept warm but not simmering.

 

  • The diffuse method is permitted for children under two only if a diffuser is placed out of reach.

 

  • Certain essential oils, such as eucalyptus and peppermint, should not be diffused near very young or very older adults, as they can cause breathing problems.

 

 

Natural Herbal Remedy Safety Precautions

 

  • ALWAYS research potential herbal side effects and adverse interactions with any medications you're taking (prescription and over-the-counter).

 

  • ALWAYS test for sensitivity to herbs before ingesting them.  

 

  • ALWAYS perform a patch test to check for sensitivity before applying a topical remedy as directed. To do so, place a tiny pea-sized amount on your inner arm or the top of one foot and cover it with a bandage. Over the next 24 hours, check for signs of itching, redness, irritation, or inflammation. If so, don't use it.

 

  • If you are pregnant or nursing, ALWAYS consult your care provider or someone trained in herbal preparation for moms and babies before consuming any new herbal remedy. Some herbs (and their essential oils) are dangerous during pregnancy and breastfeeding. Topical oils are generally safe to use if the baby doesn't come into contact with them. Still, do your homework.

 

  • ALWAYS label your herbal creations with names and dates. You'd be surprised how often I thought I could rely on my memory and failed. You can do this with masking tape and a waterproof Sharpie, buy labels at a craft store, or create labels online.

 

 

Natural Essential Oil Remedy Safety Precautions

 

  • NEVER take essential oils internally before consulting an expert in dietary essential oils. Some are highly poisonous. The only essential oils considered acceptable for internal use are those derived from plant-based foods used in the diet and for culinary purposes, such as cinnamon, lemon, orange, or rosemary. Still, even these can be toxic in minute amounts.

 

  • NEVER use peppermint oil on children less than 30 months old. It can increase the risk of seizures. Also, those with heart conditions should avoid using peppermint essential oil, as it can be too stimulating.

 

  • NEVER place essential oils too close to the eyes, inside the nose or mouth (never swallow), inner ears, or any other bodily orifice. It is safe to apply to cold sores on the outer lips of the mouth when used sparingly 3-4 times each day.

 

  • DO NOT add undiluted oils to bathwater without diluting them in a carrier oil. Oil and water do not mix, and the pure, concentrated essential oil may irritate your skin. A 2%-3% solution should do nicely in the bath. Or create a bath salt recipe. Either choice will make the essential oil safe to use.

 

  • DO NOT use water to remove essential oils from your skin to prevent them from spreading. Instead, use olive oil (or some other food-grade oil), coconut oil, butter, shortening, mineral oil, or Vaseline to wipe off essential oils.

 

  • AVOID SUNBURN. Essential oils, when applied topically, can cause a phototoxic reaction. If you go out into the sunlight or use a tanning bed with essential oils applied to your skin, you may burn more quickly.

 

  • WATCH FOR MELTDOWNS (not the emotional type). Essential oil products containing oils, waxes, and butter contain solidified oils that will melt at higher temperatures. Remember this when it comes to pockets, purses, and glove compartments. Also, be careful when opening warm containers to watch for spills. However, as the temperature cools, the balm will stabilize again.

 

  • NEVER use any essential oil ON CHILDREN UNDER THE AGE OF 2 YEARS OLD. It could cause an allergic reaction. The diffuse method is permitted for children under 2, provided the diffuser is not placed near the child and remains out of reach.

 

  • NEVER USE essential oils on or around your cat. Cats lack the enzymes needed to break down essential oils, unlike humans and dogs. Inhaling or licking essential oils can make your cat ill and even cause death. If an area of the home requires diffusing, such as a sick room, remove your cat from the room, diffuse behind closed doors, and ventilate the room well before allowing the cat access back into the area.

 

  • WARNING: Essential oils, when applied topically, can cause a phototoxic reaction. This applies to anything made with essential oils. If you go out into the sunlight with essential oils applied to your skin, you may burn more quickly. Wearing a hat will help keep the sun out of your face.

 

  • WARNING: Excessive heat from very hot water or direct sunlight can alter the chemical structure of essential oils, causing them to evaporate more quickly and become less effective. When using essential oils in water in a pot on the stove, keep the water warm but not boiling.