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CONTRAINDICATIONS

Some of the most beneficial oils can prove harmful under certain conditions.

Concentrated oils are very strong, and just because a product is natural doesn't mean that it's harmless. Inappropriate use can often lead to adverse and damaging side effects.

This is a partial list of medical conditions that warrant avoiding some oils. If you are aware of other contraindications that we've omitted, please email us.

These conditions are said to be sensitive to certain oils.
Following the list is a comment by a respected expert on those particular oils.

If you are pregnant avoid: Basil, Cedarwood, Clary Sage, Coriander, Hyssop, Jasmine, Juniper, Marjoram. Oregano, Myrrh, Peppermint (which should also be avoided while nursing), Rockrose, Rosemary, Sage and Thyme.

Note: the above oils are listed as contraindicated during pregnancy by most Aromatherapy authors. However, Martin Watt, the source that I respect the most regarding the safety of aromatic materials used in aromatherapy has this to say: "There are NO essential oils that used externally are proven as harmful to a developing foetus. The vast majority of oils you have listed are common food additives. This is all stuff from the aromatherapy novel writers."

If you suffer from a seizure disorder it's best to avoid Basil, Fennel, Hyssop, Rosemary and Sage.

To which Martin Watt states: "There is not a shred of evidence that the oils you mention have any adverse effect in epileptics and again most are common food additives."

If you have High Blood Pressure avoid Pine, Rosemary, Sage and Thyme.

And Martin replies "There is no evidence that the stated essential oils of themselves can increase blood pressure. Of course if someone does not like their smell that might marginally increase it, but probably not.."

Those with kidney problems should approach Juniper, Sandalwood and Coriander with caution.

"No evidence and unlikely if the oils are only used externally," says Martin

The following oils can cause severe sun damage (photosensitivity.):
Bergamot, expressed Lime and Rue (very strong), Cumin, Mandarine, Lemon, Tangerine, Orange, Verbena (moderate), Angelica, Caraway, Cassia,  Cinnamon Bark, Grapefruit, Honeysuckle absolute, Laurel Leaf Abs., Patchouli (mild), Virginia Cedarwood, Dill weed, and Petitgrain (very mild.)

Consider any cold pressed citrus oil a potential photosensitizer.  Steam distilled citrus oils, on the other hand, do not carry this risk. St. John's Wort CO2 and infused oil are also photosensitizers.