Although essential oils have been familiar to people since time immemorial, they are not part of the arsenal of modern evidence-based medicine. Their use is mainly limited to home use, beauty salons and massage parlours. Despite this, the work of scientists indicates the benefits of essential oils when used correctly.
Natural, but not harmless. Many people believe that essential oils, being natural, are absolutely safe. However, this is a misconception. Essential oils, even with a completely natural composition, have a number of contraindications: allergic reactions, individual intolerance, psychosis, bronchial asthma, brain injuries, cancer. In addition, essential oils are contraindicated for pregnant women in the first trimester, and in the second and third - only with the permission of a doctor.
Esters should not be used on damaged skin (ulcers, wounds, scars) or varicose veins.
People with hypertension, kidney disease, and aging conditions (such as Parkinson's disease) should use essential oils with caution. Aromatherapy for children is permissible only after consultation with a doctor.
Expiration date and storage rules. Essential oils, contrary to popular belief, do not last forever. The shelf life is limited and is usually up to 3 years from the date of manufacture. Opened oil is recommended to be used for no more than 12 months.
Essential oils are unstable chemical compounds. Interaction with oxygen leads to oxidation. As a result, toxic products are formed and the properties of the oil change. Citrus oils break down faster than others.
The bottle of oil should be kept tightly closed and not exposed to direct sun.
Differences between natural and synthetic essential oils. Price is not the only factor that distinguishes natural oils from synthetic ones.
Natural essential oils are regulated by GOST, but “naturalness” can be speculative. Almost every manufacturer sets its own quality standards, and companies are independently responsible for ensuring that the contents of the bottle comply with the information on the label.
Natural essential oils are multicomponent products obtained exclusively by physical methods: distillation (steam, water) or pressing (for citrus fruits). The production of such oils is labor-intensive: for example, a liter of mint oil requires 265 kg of leaves, and a ton of petals for a liter of rose oil. Therefore, it is not surprising that natural oils cannot be cheap.
Synthetic essential oils are produced in the laboratory using simplified technologies. Two main methods are used:
- complete “reproduction” of a substance from chemical components;
- “dilution” of natural oil with a cheaper base oil.
Synthetic oils are more affordable, but do not always match their natural counterparts.
Panacea or marketing gimmick? Despite the widespread popularity of aromatherapy, its effectiveness as a treatment method does not have sufficient scientific evidence. Unscrupulous manufacturers may position essential oils as a panacea for all ills.
There are practically no studies in Russian on the use of essential oils. An analysis of English-language sources shows that the hype around aromatherapy is exaggerated.
Only moderate sedative, diuretic, antispasmodic and bactericidal effects of some essential oils have been proven. The effect on human biorhythms, psyche and behavior has not been scientifically confirmed.
Benefit or harm? Improper use of essential oils can lead to poisoning, skin irritation and other health problems.
Essential oils, being highly concentrated substances insoluble in water, cannot be used in their pure form for baths or massage. Undiluted oils can cause burning, redness, itching and other unpleasant symptoms. Also, direct contact with concentrated ethers can lead to an allergic reaction, rash, and inflammation. There is a potential danger of concentrated oils for hormonal balance.
Recent animal studies have demonstrated that excessive use of essential oils can lead to serious consequences:
- development of neoplasms. In some cases, excessive dosages of essential oils stimulated the growth of tumors.
- pathological conditions. Excessive use of essential oils can affect the functioning of various body systems, causing various pathologies.
Essential oils are not a panacea and do not replace medical care.
Experts note that there is no reliable data on the benefits of essential oils as a “food additive”. However, there are known cases of poisoning with essential oils, especially in children, whose bodies are more vulnerable.
Can aromatherapy help “fix” nerves? Essential oils are not a substitute for qualified help for neurosis, insomnia or depression. But an aroma lamp with a pleasant aroma can promote relaxation and reduce psycho-emotional stress.
It is important to consider that the same smell can calm one person, but agitate another if it is associated with negative memories.
Resource: www.katrenstyle.ru
