Essential oils have been used for centuries to enhance health and beauty. They can be applied to the skin or inhaled. However, they should not be taken orally because they can cause adverse reactions. It is important to follow the recommended dosages.
For example, Niaouli (Melaleuca viridiflora) smells like Eucalyptus and helps cleanse minor cuts, scrapes, burns, insect bites, and rashes. It also supports respiratory health by opening the airways and easing breathing.
They have antioxidant properties
Essential oils are volatile, odoriferous liquids extracted from different parts of plants. They have many uses and are used in perfumes, incense, and cleaning products. They also have antioxidant properties, which can help fight oxidative stress in the body.
The antioxidant properties of essential oils have been studied in a number of studies. For example, one study examined the effect of five essential oils and their major components on scavenging DPPH free radical activity and inhibiting polyunsaturated fatty acid oxidation in fish oil emulsion (FOE) and red blood cell (RBC) oxidative stress.
Other research shows that essential oils have antimicrobial properties, reduce bacterial growth in the intestinal tract and act as natural food preservatives. However, more research is needed to determine whether these properties are effective for specific health conditions. For instance, inhaled essential oils can irritate the respiratory tract and cause problems for individuals with chronic inflammatory diseases like asthma and COPD. Therefore, it is important to consult a healthcare professional before using essential oils.
They are safe to use
Essential oils are a natural way to reduce toxicity and improve detoxification. They may also help with a variety of health issues, including stress and sleep problems. They are also thought to have antidepressant, stimulating, and antibacterial properties.
When purchasing essential oils, it is important to choose a high-quality product. They are not regulated by the FDA, so make sure that they come from a reputable producer. Also, avoid oils containing synthetic ingredients. You should also ask a professional aromatherapist for advice on the best ways to use them.
When applying essential oils to the skin, you should always dilute them with a carrier oil, such as coconut or jojoba. They are strong, so you should never apply them undiluted to sensitive areas. Children have a much more sensitive system and should be kept away from any oils that are not mixed with a carrier oil or in a ready-made lotion or soap. If you have young children, it is a good idea to keep all essential oils locked up out of their reach.
They are not regulated by the Food and Drug Administration
While essential oils have been used for thousands of years, their popularity has exploded recently with many multi-level marketing companies promoting them as natural remedies. This has raised concerns about the lack of scientific evidence and the dangers of ingesting them. In addition, the inhalation of undiluted oils can trigger respiratory symptoms and cause skin irritation.
In the United States, the Food and Drug Administration (FDA) regulates essential oil products based on their intended use. If a product is advertised to treat or cure an illness, it must be labeled as a drug and undergo a rigorous FDA approval process.
While ingesting essential oils may seem appealing, it is highly dangerous and can be poisonous. Ingesting these compounds can interfere with the normal functioning of your brain, gastrointestinal tract, and liver. Furthermore, ingesting too much can cause an allergic reaction. To prevent these risks, always dilute your essential oils and use them with a diffuser.
They can cause adverse reactions
Essential oils are highly concentrated and can cause adverse reactions if used incorrectly. The wrong dose can lead to a variety of health problems, including respiratory distress. If you are unsure about how to use them, speak to your doctor. It’s also important to note that essential oils are flammable and should be kept away from candles, gas stoves, and lit cigarettes.
The chemical composition of essential oils varies, depending on the botanical origin, genetics, and extraction methods. They can also contain a wide range of contaminants and impurities.
Although some research supports the use of essential oils for certain conditions, there is still little evidence to support most claims about their effectiveness. People with a history of allergic reactions should avoid using these oils, especially those who are sensitive to a specific ingredient or irritant trigger. For example, many studies have shown that essential oil can help reduce coughing, wheezing and congestion, but this only applies to individuals without underlying respiratory chronic diseases such as asthma or COPD.
