More than 60% of adults in the United States have been searching for holistic remedies and treatments.
Often, people discover the benefits of essential oils and put their faith in them. Although essential oils are a natural health and cleaning solution, they can get misused and cause damage.
If you’re new to using oils, there are a few mistakes you’ll want to avoid. Keep reading to learn about the most common essential oil mistakes for beginners.
1. Storing Them in the Sun
One of the worst mistakes you can make with essential oils is storing them in a sunny location.
When the sunlight has access to your oils, even within a box, the UV rays cause a chemical reaction. If you notice burning, discoloration, or bruising after using the oils on your skin, you may need to replace them. Once UV light interacts with natural oil compounds, it can become a harmful substance.
Find a cool, dry, and dark place to store your oils. Most people put them in cabinets or closets to prevent UV exposure.
2. Putting Children & Pets in Danger
Many people use cleaning essential oil diffusers, but they don’t know about the harm they can cause.
Although there are many benefits of essential oils, certain types are toxic. Not only can they make dogs sick, but they can also cause headaches. Tea tree, cinnamon, and peppermint oils should be kept away from dogs and children.
If you’re taking medications, you should consult with your doctor about essential oils. Some oils may have adverse effects in combination with prescriptions. Lavender is one of the safest oils and it often has calming effects on animals and humans.
3. Never Turn off Diffusers
Essential oil diffusers are a great way to purify your home and create a pleasant aroma.
Leaving your essential oil atomizing diffuser on all day, however, isn’t recommended. Too much vapor could irritate sinuses and become overwhelming. If you want to avoid having a runny nose or headache, put on a timer and limit use to one hour.
If you struggle to turn your diffuser on and off, you can also try using a timer setting on the machine.
4. Forgetting to Dilute Oils
There are various essential oil applications, and depending on which one you use, you may need to dilute the solution.
Diluting oils will improve the aroma, prevent burning, and cause less irritation when applied. Jojoba, rosehip, and almond oil are some of the most common types that people blend with essential oils.
5. Going with the Cheapest Options
When it comes to buying essential oils, try not to focus on getting the best deal.
Cheaper oils are often made with additives that can impact their effectiveness. They may burn faster or cause pollution instead of purifying the air.
Although you don’t want to go over budget, you don’t want to buy off the clearance rack. Try to look for middle-of-the-road products with reliable reviews.
Unforgettable Essential Oil Mistakes for Beginners
There’s nothing worse than buying a product, only to be disappointed by the results.
Learning about essential oil mistakes for beginners can prevent you from making careless choices. Instead of buying the cheapest choices, you’ll end up with the most beneficial products. Take the time to read online reviews and avoid toxic aromas if you have pets.
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