Safety with Oils

When used properly essential oils and aromatherapy products are safe and effective for the entire family. Like all therapeutic treatments, you need to apply common sense and follow a few simple precautions to ensure your safety and to get the desired effect.

Dilution

Essential oils are highly concentrated liquids and in most cases should not be applied directly to the skin. The exceptions are lavender, tea tree, NZ manuka, and chamomile and even then only use a small amount and not on a continual basis. Other oils may be used undiluted under the guidance of a healthcare professional only. As a general rule dilute essential oils in a carrier oil in a ratio of 5 drops of essential oil per 10mls of carrier oil. Alternatively use one of our Massage Oils (e.g. Lavender and Chamomile) or Luxury Massage Oils (e.g. Pain Relief or Relaxation) which provide you with the essential oils already blended in a carrier oil at a safe ratio. You can see more information on dilution and application of essential oils by clicking here.

Babies and Young Children

Never use essential oils topically on babies under 3 months old (except under the guidance of a qualified therapist). Always use in a more diluted form than the recommended adult dilution. As a general rule dilute the essential oils 2 drops per 10mls carrier oil. Alternatively use our Luxury Baby Massage Oil which combines a blend of safe essential and carrier oils, which are effective in treating most childhood ailments, in the correct dilution. Avoid continual repetitive use. Not more than 4-5 days in any week, unless in severe circumstances or under the guidance of a healthcare professional.

Pregnancy

There are numerous oils and Dolphin Clinic products that help with the many and varied stages and ailments that can occur during pregnancy. 

Avoid the following essential oils for the entire pregnancy:

Aniseed, Basil, Bay Laurel, Cedarwood, Cinnamon, Citronella, Clary Sage, Clove Bud, Coriander, Cypress, Fennel, Geranium, Jasmine, Juniper, Marjoram, Myrrh, Nutmeg, Peppermint, Rosemary, Sage and Thyme.

Avoid the following essential oils during the first trimester:

Chamomile, Eucalyptus, Frankincense, Lavender, Lemongrass, Pepper – Black, Pine and Rose.

Enjoy the other Dolphin Clinic essential oils and massage oils throughout the entire pregnancy with caution.

You can use any carrier or healing oil safely throughout the entire pregnancy.

Epilepsy and High Blood Pressure

Avoid the following essential oils:

Fennel, Rosemary, Sage and Thyme

Internal Use

 We do not recommend any of our essential oils are taken internally. It is much more effective for the essential oils to enter your bloodstream through the skin than via your internal digestion which can sometimes destroy the therapeutic constituent(s) of the oil.

Photosensitivity

Some essential oils are mildly photosensitising and should be avoided prior to sunbathing, using sunbeds or high exposure to sunlight.

Bergamot, Orange, Lemon and Lime.

Do not use 24/7

We recommend essential oils are only used topically 5 days a week. Use in a vaporiser/diffuser is OK 7 days a week.

Animals

  • Never use more than the recommended dose. Animals have a better sense of smell than humans. More is not better. Essential oils are very potent in their pure form.
  • Take into account the size of the animal—generally smaller animals need less essential oils.
  • Cats are highly sensitive to essential oils as their liver has a very limited ability to metabolise them. We do not recommend essential oil products are used on cats unless in a very diluted form under professional guidance. Always use in an area where the cat can move away from the smell. Don’t use essential oils directly on their skin without professional advise.
  • Do not use essential oils repeatedly for more than 10 days.
  • Always consult a professional if you are in any doubt of the severity of the condition.