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Essential-oil safety

Essential oils are a genuine pleasure when used sensibly, and almost all of the trouble people get into with them is avoidable with a few simple habits. Here they are, without drama.

The golden rules

  • Never swallow essential oils. No exceptions, whatever the internet says. They are not safe to ingest.
  • Use products as directed. SpiritSpud blends come with usage directions on the label. A little genuinely goes a long way.
  • Dilute where required. Neat essential oils are too strong for skin. SpiritSpud blends are already mixed into a carrier-oil base (sweet almond, marula and vitamin E), but any neat oil you buy elsewhere must be diluted in a carrier oil before it touches skin.
  • Patch test if your skin is sensitive. Apply a small amount of the diluted blend to the inside of your forearm and wait 24 hours. If the skin reacts, that blend isn't for you, so stop using it.
  • Keep oils away from children and pets. Store bottles out of reach, and be aware that some oils which are fine for humans are harmful to cats and dogs. If in doubt, diffuse in a room your pets can leave.
  • Keep oils away from eyes and broken or irritated skin.
  • Check ingredients before buying if you have allergies. Every SpiritSpud blend lists its full ingredients on the signature blends page and on the bottle. Sweet almond oil is a nut-derived product.

Who should take extra care

Please seek advice from your GP, midwife, pharmacist or another suitably qualified professional before using essential oils if you:

  • are pregnant or breastfeeding;
  • are taking medication;
  • are managing a health condition, including epilepsy, asthma or high blood pressure;
  • are choosing oils for a baby, young child or elderly relative.

This isn't small print for the sake of it. Some oils genuinely aren't appropriate in these situations, and a quick question first is always the right call. Alex is also happy to talk through the ingredients in any blend before you buy.

Where our products fit in

SpiritSpud treatments and products are complementary wellbeing services and lovely everyday rituals. They are not medicines, and they are not a substitute for medical diagnosis or treatment. If you're unwell or worried about a symptom, your doctor is the right person. The bath oil can wait until afterwards.

Storage

  • Keep bottles tightly closed, upright, and out of direct sunlight.
  • Shake gently before use ("shake to wake") as natural oils can settle.
  • Oil and water don't mix, so wipe bottles after bath use so they don't slip.

Unsure about anything? Ask. It's never a bother.

Ask Alex a question