Essential Oil Safety

1,8-cineole, also called eucalyptol, is a common constituent found in may essential oils. Some essential oils (Eucalyptus radiata, Eucalyptus globulus, rosemary CT 1,8-cineole, ravintsara CT 1,8-cineole, etc.) are particularly rich in this constituent. Research suggests that inhalation of 1,8-cineole may cause labored respiration in very young children. This is particularly true of premature infants.

Methyl salycilate typically makes up more than 95% of wintergreen essential oil. This constituent is very similar to aspirin. Medical professionals know that giving a child under age 12 aspirin during a viral illness or when feverish may increase the risk of Reye’s syndrome. Reye’s syndrome is a conditions characterized by swelling of the liver and brain. Becuase methyl salicylate is similar to aspirin it is wise to avoid it in children under age 12 particularly when they are ill.

Clove, wintergreen, and oregano contain constituents that may increase the anticoagulant effects of drugs.

Clove contains eugenol, which research suggests produces its antidepressant effects at least partially by influencing the MAO pathway.

Geranium contains constituents like geraniol which possess antimicrobial properties. Several studies have demonstrated that geranium essential oil can improve the efficacy of antibiotics or antifungals against several pathogens.

Elecampane typically contains between 50% and 60% alantolactone as well as significant amounts of another skin sensitizer isoalantolacone. Research found that 92% of people tested experienced a severe allergic reaction when elecampane was applied topically at a 4% dilution.

Eucalyptus, feverfew, and hyssop CT pinocamphone each contain constituents that may trigger seizures or reduce medication effectiveness. While spearmint CT pulegone-menthone-isomenthone) contains constituents that may be problematic for people with epilepsy the carvone CT does not.

Bergamot, lemon, and angelica all contain constituents that increase the risk of photosensitivity. Distilled lime is skin friendly and devoid of these constituents. Research suggests that sweet orange is also devoid of the photosensitizing constituents.

The menthol content in peppermint and applemint make the potential for interaction with caffeine possible. Research also suggests that anise contains constituents that may reduce the bioavailability and effects of caffeine.

Dr. Johnson has three books that contain essential oil cautions/interactions: Medicinal Essential Oils, Evidence-Based Essential Oil Therapy, and Surviving When Modern Medicine Fails.