# Essential Oil Safety

- Link: https://stayathomemum.com.au/wellbeing/body/essential-oil-safety/
- Published: 2011-11-16T08:00:29+11:00
- Author: Clare Whitfield

[⌊Eco friendly cleaning spray and essential oils for natural home cleaning⌉⌊Eco 
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# Essential Oil Safety

Due to the fact that we have many articles on this website which encourage the use
of essential oils, we have decided to give you some essential oil safety guidelines
to ensure that there is no misuse of these oils. I have recently completed my Master
Aromatherapy, and these guidelines are based on the information on the International
Association of Aromatic Medicine and [Aromatherapy](https://stayathomemum.com.au/bodyandsoul/aromatherapy/)(
IAAMA).

## Essential Oil Safety Summary

 * **_Essential oils should never come into contact directly with skin_** in an 
   undiluted form as they are highly concentrated and can cause severe irritation
   or allergic reaction. **_Exceptions to this are [lavender](https://stayathomemum.com.au/houseandhome/cleaning-tips/cleaning-with-lavender-oil/)
   and tea tree oils_**. Always do a “patch test” if you are unsure of any sensitivity
   to particular oils. To do a **_“patch test”_**, simply apply a small amount of
   the diluted oil to the inside of your elbow and then wait for 24 hours if no 
   reaction occurs you are safe to use it.
 * Always use the**_ specified dosage of oil_** (either drops or millilitres) anything
   over the recommended dosage can be toxic.
 * If you are **_pregnant, or have other major health conditions_** such as high
   blood pressure or epilepsy, you must consult with a qualified aromatherapist 
   or health professional before using essential oils as some are dangerous to use
   if you have a medical condition.
 * Some essential oils are extremely hazardous and should not be used by the general
   public these include: horseradish, wormwood, sassafras, camphor, wintergreen,
   pennyroyal, rue, onion and bitter almond oils.
 * Always store your oils in a cool, dry, dark place (in tropical areas it is even
   recommended to store your oils in the refrigerator). Essential oils are flammable,
   so keep away from an open flame (if using with an oil burner, exercise with extreme
   caution and watch the oils at all times).
 * On some occasions you may need to use less oil than directed especially when 
   using them around children or the elderly. Consult an aromatherapist for more
   information.
 * **_Keep essential oils out of reach from children_** treat them as you would 
   any poisonous or toxic substance in your home.
 * **_Never take an essential oil internally_** unless under strict guidance from
   a qualified, highly trained aromatherapy practitioner.
 * If you have any further questions regarding the use of essential oils, please
   consult a local natural therapist or aromatherapist.
 * _**Please note that the owners and contributors of SAHM take no responsibility
   for misuse of essential oils or any reactions caused by essential oils. All information
   provided here is current and correct at the time of posting.**_

Reference: [http://www.iaama.org.au](http://www.iaama.org.au/)

_Written by Nicole Millard – Social Media Manager for SAHM, Registered Nurse and
Master Aromatherapist._

More Information:

 * [Where to Buy Wholesale Essential Oils](https://stayathomemum.com.au/houseandhome/kitchen/where-to-buy-wholesale-essential-oils/)
 * [How to Make Essential Oil All Purpose Cleaners](https://stayathomemum.com.au/houseandhome/kitchen/essential-oil-all-purpose-cleaners/)

![author avatar](https://i0.wp.com/stayathomemum.com.au/wp-content/uploads/2025/
12/clare_whitfield_profile.webp?quality=80&ssl=1)

 Clare Whitfield Chief Editor

 Clare Whitfield is the Editor of Stay at Home Mum and a recognised voice in practical
home management for Australian families. Based in the northern suburbs of Sydney,
she balances editorial leadership with life as a stay at home mum to two school 
age children. Her background in home economics and more than a decade of experience
in recipe development, family budgeting, and household systems inform her work.

 [See Full Bio](https://stayathomemum.com.au/author/clare_whitfield/) [  ](https://stayathomemum.com.au/author/clare_whitfield/)