Pay attention to how much oil you’re using. Essential oils are safe to use, as long as the appropriate dosage and application methods are observed and followed. In the most extreme cases, exceeding dosage recommendations for oils can lead to toxicity. Toxicity is when a substance reaches a point that it becomes harmful or damaging to the body. Any substance can be toxic if used in an inappropriate dose or way. Even natural, seemingly harmless substances like water, minerals, or vitamins can become toxic when used or consumed in excess. Keep in mind, you’d have to far exceed the recommended dosage for an essential oil to reach toxic levels. As long as you’re reading labels and adhering to safety recommendations, you can avoid toxicity. Whether you’re diffusing essential oils, applying them to your skin, or using them internally, it’s usually best to start with smaller amounts. This makes it easy to see how your body reacts, and then you can determine how much oil to use on a regular basis.
You can minimize skin sensitivity when using oils topically with one of the carrier oils discussed in chapter 3. Always dilute an oil when using it for the first time, applying it to sensitive skin, or using with children. The suggested dilution ratio is one drop of essential oil to five drops of carrier oil. Oils with a particularly strong chemistry should be diluted even further, using one drop of oil with ten drops of carrier oil. Some of these oils include Cassia, Cinnamon, Clove, Oregano, and Thyme. Always pay attention to labels with warnings about strong oils and dilute before applying them to your skin.