Too much of a Good Thing?

More and more research is showing that our bodies are struggling w toxic overload with all the artificial fragrances on the market, but are we struggling w toxicity if we over use essential oils, or use them improperly? You bet it is possible! I recently did a workshop on Essential oils and the Immune System, and we had some wonderful questions from our participants, that led to toxicity concerns. So here I am to clarify a couple concerns. 

Marianne here, and I've been a Clinical Certified Aromatherapist since 2004, so far so good as far as my health is concerned and I've been using them on the regular, but that's because I have been properly educated in the proper use of essential oils. 

Following are some helpful tips, and if you have any questions please do not hesitate to send me an email at hello@apothe-ka.com and address it to Marianne.  I will answer your questions as soon as I can and I will  create your personal blend according to your specific needs. We can do a consult and I will formulate your blend based on your individual needs and desired outcomes. Our website also has a personalized quiz if you want to try it that way. 

Certain essential oils, when used excessively, can build up in the body and cause toxicity, particularly in the liver or kidneys. Please never ingest Essential Oils, even my Liability Insurance will not insure me if I suggest internal use of oils, and there's a good reason for this! So please never drink your oils. If you want to drink Lemon, get it from squeezing half a lemon in warm water, the amount in half a lemon is all you need and all your liver can handle. Your liver doesn't need 20 Lemons a day, and that's the equivalent of one drop. Yes, one drop is equal to 20 lemons.

Hypertension

Some essential oils may have stimulating properties that could raise blood pressure or heart rate if used in excess, posing risks for those with hypertension or heart conditions. It is important to note that sage oil — as opposed to clary sage oil — contains a compound called thujone, which may increase high blood pressure. 

Hormonal Imbalances

This is a complex one, but one thing I can say is prolonged exposure to high doses of certain oils can potentially interfere with the endocrine system, affecting hormone levels. This can be on an individual basis, so please consult with me first and we can figure out the 'best choice' for you and how rotating blends are ideal! It's a science, so let's do it correctly and safely. 

Respiratory

Over-inhalation of strong essential oils can irritate the lungs or trigger headaches, especially in people with asthma or allergies. Proper diffusing is the key.

You can also contact any Trained Clinical aromatherapists that understand the chemical composition of essential oils and their potential effects on the body. They can provide guidance on proper dilution, usage, and potential contraindications based on individual health conditions, such as allergies, pregnancy, or high blood pressure.

Avoiding Harm is our goal along with whatever your health concerns are: we can identify which oils may be unsafe for certain people or conditions, helping to prevent adverse reactions, such as toxicity or skin sensitization.

 

We consider the whole person—physical, emotional, and mental health—when making recommendations.

Avoiding Misuse: Sellers without training or weekend training, will not fully understand or communicate the risks of overuse, improper dilution, or interactions with medications.

Ethical Practices

Transparency: Aromatherapists are likely to provide full transparency about the oils they sell, including sourcing, testing, and therapeutic grade claims.

Focus on Wellness, Not Sales: Unlike untrained sellers who may prioritize profit over safety, Aromatherapists aim to support the person's well-being.

If you are looking for a Professional Aromatherapist who is Certified and in your specific area you can contact The Canadian Federation of Aromatherapists and they can find someone close to you. 

Happy smelling and Fragrant blessings,

Marianne Toupalik