One of the frequent questions I am asked is "where is the best place to buy essential oils from". This is your guide to buying and storing essential oils, and a brief outline on using essential oils safely.
Buying Essential Oils:
With so many different companies selling essential oils it can be difficult to know where to go to buy good quality essential oils which are authentic, natural and therefore retain their therapeutic properties. Below is a list that will provide you with some guidance to help you get started:
The plants common name and botanical name (its Latin name) should always be listed (eg lavender (Lavandula angustifolia).
Check the list of ingredients - for a single essential oil there should be one ingredient listed. The common plant name and botanical name for each ingredient should be listed (for example, under the list of ingredients for lavender essential oil, you should only see "Lavender (Lavandula angustifolia")).
The country of provenance - where was the plant grown (as you would expect to see on a bottle of wine).
What part of the plant was used to produce the essential oil (eg the leaves / flowers / twigs or bark / roots etc).
The method of extraction should be given (for most essential oils this would be steam distilled or expressed).
Expiry date - most people don't realise that essential oils expire - over time they can oxidise which could cause irritation/sensitisation.
Buy organic essential oils where you can in order to ensure top quality.
It could be a red flag if the cost of the essential oil is low - it could be that the oil has been blended with a cheaper oil or diluted (this is particularly relevant for the expensive range of oils, eg rose, jasmine, neroli, sandalwood).
Check the oil is authentic - it should not be adulterated in any way.
Safety data should always be available - this is important as essential oils are highly concentrated and should be used with extreme care. Always consult a trained Aromatherapist if in doubt.
You should be able to request the GS (Gas Chromatography) of the essential oil. Click here for more details on what this means.
For more details on how to shop for essential oils please visit the world-renowned Robert Tisserand's blog on "Eight green and red flags when looking for your ideal essential oil supplier".
Storing Essential Oils:
As with food, consideration needs to be taken when storing your essential oils in order to keep them in good condition and ensure the best shelf life:
Keep away from extreme temperatures.
Store in a cool, dark place.
They should come in dark glass bottles to keep them away from ultraviolet light damage.
Bottles should be tightly sealed to prevent oxidation of the essential oils.
Keep away from children and pets.
Take note of the use by date - generally citrus oils deteriorate faster, whereas woody oils have a longer shelf life and can mature and mellow with age.
Essential Oil Safety:
Always read the essential oil safety guidance.
Never ingest.
Always dilute before use on the skin (seek advice from a trained Aromatherapist for recommended quantities).
Avoid contact with the eyes/mucous membranes.
Perform a patch test with the essential oil (dilute first - one drop in 5ml essential oil) before use if you have sensitive skin. Avoid the following essential oils if you have sensitive skin: basil, black pepper, clove, ginger, lemon, lemongrass, melissa, orange, peppermint, thyme, and tea tree.
Take great care not to expose your skin to the sun/sunbeds after the use of essential oils, particularly if using a blend containing any of the citrus oils (photosensitisation).
Do not use if pregnant without seeking advice.
Use lower dilutions for children/babies/elderly.
Take care if using around pets - keep a door open so that they can leave the room if they wish.
If you have any medical conditions seek advice.
Stop use immediately if you experience a reaction - inform your therapist and/or seek medical advice.
For a comprehensive guide and further information please visit the world-renowned Robert Tisserand's page on "How to Use Essential Oils Safely".
Get in touch if you'd like to purchase essential oils or bespoke products, smell any of the oils in my collection, buy a CAM Aromatherapy product, get help with creating your own blend, or have a massage treatment.
Contact:
camaromatherapy@gmail.com
Follow me: