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Glossary

Essential oils are all very volatile. They are highly concentrated and very flammable. However if you follow our safety guidelines you will find them safe and enjoyable to use.

General Guidelines

• Essential oils are for external use only, they should never be taken internally.
• Most essential oils should not be applied directly on the skin. There are a few exceptions (Tea Tree and Lavender), but even these should only be applied to small areas. All other essential oils should always be diluted to 3% oil in 97% carrier oil or base product.
• Seek advice from a qualified aromatherapist or medical practitioner before use if you are pregnant.
• Seek advice from a qualified aromatherapist or medical practitioner before use if you suffer from a medical condition such as epilepsy or high blood pressure etc.
• Seek advice from a qualified aromatherapist if you are using essential oils on babies or young children.
• Keep out of reach of children.
• Avoid contact with eyes.
• Do not place essential oils in the microwave as they are flammable.
• Avoid contact with polished surfaces.
• The use of essential oils is complementary to professional medical advice - not a substitute. If you have a medical condition or are uncertain about using essential oils please seek professional medical advice from a qualified aromatherapist or medical practitioner.
• If you have an adverse reaction to an essential oil stop use immediately and seek professional advice from a qualified aromatherapist or medical practitioner.

If you have sensitive skin, then it is advisable to do a patch test before using new oils or combinations. Blend the oils in a 2.5% dilution (1 drop of essential oil in 40 drops of carrier oil), then place a small amount on the inside of your elbow. Leave for 24 hours. If you find the area is red or inflamed, do not use the blend. If in doubt, contact a qualified aromatherapist.

Pregnancy

Culpeper's company policy is that no essential oil should be used during the first four months of pregnancy. After this period, use lower dilutions such as 2 drops to 10ml of carrier oil (1%) we suggest that you stick to the citrus oils.

Oils to be avoided during pregnancy:

Aniseed, Basil, Camphor, Caraway, Cassia, Cedarwood, Cinnamon, Citronella, Clary Sage, Clove, Fennel, Hyssop, Jasmine, Juniperberry, Marjoram, Myrrh, Nutmeg, Parsley, Peppermint, Rose, Rosemary, Sage, and Thyme.

Do bear in mind that senses tend to be heightened during pregnancy and therefore some of the more heady oils may be too intense.

Epilepsy

The following oils should be avoided by those who may be vulnerable to seizures: Camphor, Hyssop, Lavandin, Rosemary, Sage and Peppermint.

High Blood Pressure

Low Blood Pressure

Those with low blood pressure should avoid: Lavender, Marjoram, and Clary Sage.

Sensitive Skin

Those with sensitive skin should take care with: Cassia, Citronella, Clove, Fennel, Lemon, Cinnamon, Lemongrass, Orange, Peppermint, Pine, and Thyme. We would recommend performing a skin patch test with any oil.

Sunshine and Tanning Beds

Do not use the following before going in the sun or using a tanning bed: Bergamot, Citronella, Grapefruit, Lemon, Lemongrass, Mandarin, Orange, Tangerine and Lime.

Allergic Reactions

Essential oils may cause allergic reactions in some people. If you do suffer an adverse reaction discontinue use immediately.

What to do in an emergency

If oils are swallowed
Seek urgent medical attention. Do not try to induce vomiting.

If there is contact with the eyes
Wash the eyes thoroughly with cold water. Seek medical attention if stinging persists after 10 minutes.

If the oil is spilt
Use sand to absorb the oil. If sand is not available, use paper tissues and take care to remove the debris immediately.

If oil is spilt on clothing, take off the garment and wash as soon as possible . If the oil has soaked through the clothing, wash the skin with soap and water.

Storage

Keep your essential oils and massage oils in:

• Cool, dark conditions away from sunlight
• Dark bottles, and never plastic (essential oils will eat into plastic)
• Closed bottles without droppers, as the oil will degrade the rubber

Never store essential oils where children can get hold of them. Treat as a medicine, and preferably keep in a locked cabinet.

Please note Rose essential oil may solidify if the temperature falls below room temperature (e.g. during wintertime). Do not worry if this happens. Gently roll the bottle between your hands and the oil will warm through. Never be tempted to put the oil in the microwave.