Essential oils are quite versatile. It can be used in so many different ways! The most easy and convenient is aromatherapy! While there are many ways to use these essential oils, Mr. Amit Sarda, MD of Soulflower, tells about a few things to keep in mind while using them. It helps to aid a number of issues if used properly.

Essential oils are extracted by steam distillation and are undiluted. Hence, it is very important to ALWAYS dilute these oils with other carrier oils for use.

Here we are listing a few essential oil dos’ that will help you incorporate them into your daily lives for wellness!

Do’s:

1. Always do a patch test before using the oil. Essential oils may not suit your skin if you are suffering from skin allergies. Stop use if your skin reacts.
2. Dilute essential oils for topical application. Due to the high concentration, it is important that an essential oil is used with a carrier oil.
3. Store essential oils in dark, amber bottles in a cool and dark place. Do not expose it to sunlight as it reduces the therapeutic value.
4. Always know which essential oil you are using. There are different variants in the market. One is food grade and the other is therapeutic grade. Read the label for vital information.
5. Keep essential oils away from the reach of children. Always be precautionary while using them. Do not use these near your eye area without supervision or consultation from your doctor. Store them safely.
6. Always check for expiry of essential oils. Do not use them post their expiry dates.
7. Always read about the essential oil you are using. It is important to know which essential oil helps in which special health concern. Be well read.

Don’ts:

1. Do not use essential oils internally. Food grade essential oils can be used for flavoring and cooking, but therapeutic essential oils cannot. These are more concentrated and too potent for such use.
2. Do not use essential oils directly on your skin. We can’t stress more on this. It is extremely important to dilute essential oils for use on skin or hair.
3. Do not use essential oils on damaged skin. It may cause unwanted skin reactions.
4. Consult your doctor before you use essential oils if you are pregnant.
5. Do not overuse it. It may cause a bad reaction if used too often.
6. Do not use it on children. Their skin is extremely sensitive.
7. Do not put essential oils near a naked flame or expose it to sunlight.