Common Sense for Using Essential Oils Safely
A substantial amount of scientific study already exists which indicates the rationale for the safe benefits of plant-derived oils. There is an even larger quantity of empirical evidence collected by aromatherapists of this century. And of course there is a long 5000-year history of traditional use and anecdotal lore. However, not all essential oils are beneficial to health as you might expect, just like not all herbs are good for you. Any substance can provoke an adverse reaction when used in very large quantities. In fact, high concentration of essential oil can cause restlessness, agitation, and insomnia if too much is used.

We all must learn to respect these oils for what they are: highly concentrated plant constituents possessing potent medicinal and cosmetic qualities; some relax and sedate, others balance, rejuvenate and invigorate and some even enhance memory.

Always keep your essential oils out of the reach of pets and children. Internal consumption of essential oils can cause serious damage or be fatal.

Allergies
People with allergies should use essential oils with caution. Anyone can suffer from an allergic reaction, and some allergic reactions can be fatal. We recommend you test any oils you intend to use by first applying a couple of drops to the inside of your forearm and cover with a Band-Aid. Check in an hour or so for any signs of redness, itching, irritation or swelling of lips or eyes. If you notice any of these signs, discontinue use of those particular oils.

Photo Toxicity
We do not offer any citrus oils, ginger or cumin, due to the fact that they are photo-sensitive, meaning they can cause increased sunburn reaction from the sun or tanning salon and are not recommended for individuals with a history of skin cancer, large moles or extensive dark freckles.

Pregnancy
It is best to avoid essential oils on the skin during pregnancy because they can possibly pass from the skin into the bloodstream and cross the placental barrier. Some essential oils can be used with caution, but always consult your physician or certified aromatherapist before using.

In the Bath
Some essential oils can be used in the bath by non-pregnant people. It is best to avoid the more potent oils in the bath like eucalyptus, peppermint, dragon's blood, tea tree, and rosemary. These can cause irritations in the genital areas. Also not recommended for people with epilepsy, rapid heartbeat, insomnia or high blood pressure due to their stimulating properties. If you do use your essential oils in the bath, be careful not to get them in your eyes. It is a common misconception that the oils are water-soluble, in fact they are not. In the event that you accidentally get essential oil in your eye, do not try to wash it out with water. This will only push it in farther into your eye. Use a very small amount of natural vegetable oil and very carefully put into the eye. Your eye will immediately push the essential oil out with tears.

On the Face
Be careful not to use essential oils too close to your eyes, the fumes can bother your eyes and eyelids. Also be careful not to use on your lips as this can seriously dry them out or accidentally ingest them. If you find your oils seem too strong, feel free to dilute them with additional golden jojoba, sweet almond or olive oil to the desired concentration.

In the Hair
Some essential oils and infused oils can be used on the scalp or hair. For itchy scalp or dandruff, rosemary or eucalyptus are usually used diluted more with jojoba oil. Use 1 dram bottle per 4 oz. of jojoba, gently warmed before applying. Rub into scalp and let sit half-an-hour before washing out. Be careful the oil doesn't run down into your eyes. Alaska Cottonwood and Alaska Willow oils are also excellent for dandruff, psoriasis and just a nourishing hair tonic. Also leave in half-an-hour before washing out. For split ends, use Alaska Cottonwood regularly on tips of hair. Use approximately a capful on your hands and rub into hair ends, this is ample for treatment. Leave in for hair to soak up.

Caution to Smokers
If you smoke cigarettes, be careful not to accidentally or purposely get any essential oil on your cigarette and smoke it. This can cause serious health damage.