I had been told that lavender essential oil was good for head lice. So, I took the bottle that my father-in-law had given me a few months ag...
To be honest, I have to say that the anti-lice effect was excellent, and I still use it to this day. But the calm I wanted to achieve with my children was harder to achieve. Although the decibels dropped a little, the truth is that the power of warm water can calm any child. But what happened with the experience of the droplet droplets in the bathtub was that my children began to have red rods all over their bodies. They weren't upset, but I was unsettled. The oil had made their allergies.
Essential oils and their responsible use
Since the Middle Ages, essential oils have been widely used for bactericidal, virucidal, fungicidal, antiparasitic, insecticidal, medicinal, and cosmetic applications, especially today in the pharmaceutical, health, cosmetic, agricultural, and food industries.
Essential oils are extracted from different parts of the plants, such as stems, leaves, roots, flowers, and fruits, and the extraction method determines its use. Nowadays, its use is widely disseminated for skincare and health conditions, and that they are natural makes many people think they are safe. The truth is that little is known about the adverse reactions and contraindications of each oil.
The Web med site tells the story of a Canadian woman who, after trying citrus oils in her bathtub and soap with lavender oil, began to have skin rashes that led to dangerous peeling. She had been told that it was a natural detoxification that her body was doing, but the blisters on her skin forced her to go to the emergency doctor.
Lavender oil is proven to have positive effects on short-term and numerical memory. Its use is also indicated to calm anxiety, stress, and calm headaches, among other uses. However, it also has contraindications and side effects, as it can increase seizures in people with epilepsy or increase tremors in Parkinson's. In addition, it can cause allergic skin reactions, as well as digestive problems and muscle pain.
Natural oil, frugal use
Nature is there for us to take its fruits. And essential oils have shed a lot of light on the world of medicine and have been helping people in many ways. But their use must be responsible, as they should not be used deliberately on anyone. Companies that sell these oils should alert their customers to some of the side effects of essential oils.
Only in the United States in the last year, the sales of essential oils increase by 14%. Its easy availability and its promises of immediate benefits made people turn to this natural remedy without being informed about the consequences. Oils have beneficial properties in many cases and for endless uses, but they should be used sparingly and on a case-by-case basis. According to critics, the problem is that companies exaggerate their potential and minimize the risk.
“The safety of essential oils has been compromised by information spread by poorly trained sales representatives,” says Joie Power, a neuropsychologist and aromatherapist who has been teaching how to use the oils for decades.
Some benefits of essential oils
Beyond the contraindications of each case, taking advantage of the natural properties of some oils can be very beneficial for health, as long as they are used in moderation and being attentive to their adverse effects. Here are some examples of some oils and their uses:
Bergamot
It is used as a natural antiseptic and speeds up the healing process for cold sores and ulcers. If you are going to use this oil, you should avoid sunlight for 12 hours after putting it on your skin, even when diluted, as it increases skin sensitivity.
Clary sage oil
It has relaxing and calming properties that help rejuvenate and relax the skin. Pregnant women should not use it as some evidence suggests it may induce contractions.
Mint
This oil is used to relieve headaches and stomach aches, but should never be used on babies or young children, as it can cause serious respiratory problems.
Eucalyptus
This oil is a powerful nasal decongestant and cough reliever. Caution should be used when using this oil when taking certain medications used for seizures, attention deficit hyperactivity disorder, as they may be less effective and may trigger asthma attacks.
cinnamon bark
Sometimes used in shampoos and lotions, it can also irritate the skin. People with seasonal allergies have been shown to be more prone to bad reactions and are advised to avoid them.
tea-tree
Tea tree oil is a powerful antiseptic, bactericide, antifungal, anti-inflammatory, healing, and regenerating agent. Its ingestion is dangerous since in severe cases, tea tree oil can cause hallucinations and cellular abnormalities.
Lavender
This oil is beneficial for reducing anxiety and emotional stress, as well as improving sleep and slowing down cellular aging. If its use is excessive, it can have toxic and harmful effects such as increased heart rate, hallucinations, and gastrointestinal problems.
Lemon: It is an excellent energizer and fungicide, and helps fight fatigue and insomnia. Its excessive use can increase the risk of skin cancer since its use increases the sensitivity of the skin to the sun.
What to avoid
Essential oils should not be ingested
Eucalyptus and peppermint oils can
irritate the respiratory tract if inhaled in excessThe "tea tree" contains compounds that can cause
abnormal growth of breasts in childrenChildren and adolescents should not use essential oils
Pregnant women should consult a doctor before using them.
Citrus oils can expose skin to UV burns
What can be done
Before using the oils, carefully study their properties
Know and research side effects before trying an oil on your skin
Read the instructions on the package
Discontinue use if you have allergic reactions
Always consult a doctor in case of any doubt
Education and information are essential for our well-being. Keep taking care of your health using products that you know about their adverse effects, to make the most of their natural potential and benefits for your body.
