There is a lot of confusion regarding essential oils and their effects. Typically, today’s consumers turn to the internet to explore the possible benefits of using essential oil. However, much of the information found online is rooted in baseless myths.
In this guide, we are going to shed light on some of the most popular myths surrounding essential oils.
Myth#1: Therapeutic Grade Essential Oils Are The Best
No certifying body certifies essential oils to evaluate their efficacy. Marketers have created specific terms and catchy phrases to lure buyers into buying some products. The term therapeutic grade is nothing but a marketing gimmick.
In reality, all essential oils have some healing ability. Its chemistry can only judge the usefulness of any specific oil.
Myth#2: Essential Oil Do Not Freeze
It is another popular myth according to which if an essential oil freezes, it is not pure. The truth is all liquids are capable of freezing at some temperature, and the same is the case with essential oils.
So, the next time when any of your essential oils freezes, don't dispose of it but allow it to return to its room temperature before using it. However, never heat up any essential oil.
Myth#3: A Rash Or Redness Indicates Skin Detoxification
Don't fall victim to an essential oils scam that misleads you into believing that a skin rash is a good sign. This reason is why all manufacturers recommend doing a patch test or diluting the oil if you have sensitive skin. If you develop a rash, stop using the oil immediately or seek help from a dermatologist.
Myth#4: When Using A Blend Of Essential Oils, Follow The Exact Order
In reality, the blending order does not affect the final aroma or chemical profile of the mixture. If you need to mix two oils, don’t create a concentrated solution.
Myth#5: It Is Safe To Ingest Any Essential Oil
Again, most fake essential oil manufacturers claim that all their essential oils are safe to ingest. However, certain oils can disrupt your digestion or cause other adverse effects.
Some people assume that just because an essential oil has the same name as a popular herb, it is safe to consume it orally.
Never assume that just because an essential oil has the same name as a common herb, it is safe to consume it orally. Essential oils and herbs do not have the same effects. For instance, it is safe to sprinkle basil on your pasta, but you can never ingest basil essential oil as it can be dangerous.
Myth#6: Pure Essential Oils Last Forever
According to another ridiculous claim, pure essential oils can never lose their efficacy. The truth is that eventually, any oil will lose its natural effect because of oxidation. Citrus oils have a significant amount of limonene which is a substance that oxidizes reasonably quickly. Thus, it destroys the fresh citrus odor of such essential oils.
Other oils such as blue tansy, German chamomile, and yarrow become less effective with time. You should store all blue oils in the refrigerator and leave just a little airspace in the container to slow down the breakdown.
Myth#7: You Can Use Any Essential Oil On Children, In Its Diluted Form
Most of us don’t know that certain essential oils are labeled ‘unsafe' for children under five. It is vital to consult a professional dermatologist or your child physician to see if you can use specific oils on children.
Myth#8: Essential Oils Work Best When You Put Them In A Hot Bath
Never! It is a dangerous practice that many of us have tried doing at least once. It is imperative that you emulsify an essential oil before you pouring a few drops in your bathtub. If you don’t do it, the oil keeps floating and won’t disperse.
The effect is dangerous because when oil combines with water and the heat, it causes derma-toxicity. The best ingredients to use are milk and sesame oil to emulsify an essential oil.
Things To Know
Final Thoughts
Shelf life also varies for different types of oils. We do not advise to store essential oils for more than three years. However, there can be a few exceptions to this rule. For instance, sandalwood and patchouli oil improve with age. Oxidation leads to the formation of potent allergens; so, using oxidized or spoiled essential oils lead to unfavorable reactions.
Essential oils are complex mixtures and can undergo oxidation with time. Since oxidation needs oxygen, it is necessary to store your essential oils with a tightly closed lid and away from light sources. Oxidation occurs at a rapid rate upon exposure to light and higher temperatures. So, it's best to keep all oils in a cold and dark place.