Tag: Essential oil safety

According to a systematic review published in 2024, oral lavender supplements were shown to significantly improve symptoms of anxiety in people with anxiety disorders. This makes understanding safe and effective ways on how to take lavender oil internally essential for those seeking its calming benefits. However, the method of consumption is critical, as ingesting undiluted essential oils is highly dangerous and toxic.

The International Fragrance Association (IFRA) has prohibited several essential oils, such as alantroot and boldo, from use in fragrances due to toxic or sensitizing effects. Understanding what essential oils are banned or restricted is crucial for safe use in aromatherapy and cosmetic applications, as these powerful plant extracts are not without risk.

Ginger is classified as 'Generally Recognised as Safe' (GRAS) by the FDA, yet its concentrated oil form is not suitable for everyone [1.5.1]. Understanding who should not use ginger oil is crucial for avoiding adverse effects and dangerous drug interactions [1.2.3].

According to the American Association of Poison Control Centers, tea tree oil was one of the most frequently reported essential oil exposures in 2022, highlighting the significant risks of misuse. The answer to the question, "can you drink tea tree oil?" is an unequivocal and urgent **no**, as this potent essential oil is toxic when ingested.

Eucalyptus oil, containing up to 90% eucalyptol, is a common ingredient in many medicinal products [1.6.3]. This prevalence leads to an important question: is eucalyptus psychoactive, and does it produce a 'high'?

In 2022, Poison Control managed over 2,200 cases of human exposure to tea tree oil, almost twice as many as any other essential oil. This alarming statistic highlights a critical public health issue, as many people misunderstand the safety of essential oils and think, "Can you eat tea tree oil?", leading to potentially severe outcomes.