How to Safely Use Essential Oils

Essential Oils for Food

There are 2 clearly distinguishments when using essential oils for food.

The first is as a flavor enhancer, which can be used to add flavor to dishes. For example, adding drops of lemon or peppermint oil to a dish can give it a unique flavor. It is important to remember that essential oils are very concentrated, so only a few drops are needed. The second is as a food.

Flavouring & Aroma

Flavourings and Aromas, we will refer to the FEMA guidelines. It is a set of rules followed by industry on the acceptable amount of essential oil to put into a given food product to be granted the FDA status of being Generally Regards as Safe (GRAS).

Different food products have different recommended dosages due to the intended method of digestion and degradation of the oil.

Food

In most cases this is an oil not an essential oil, such as Lemon Oil and MCT Coconut Oil. The oil has to clearly state it is food grade thus can be used wholly and solely as a raw material be it a base or as a component in a larger formulation.

Food Hack

Also, many essential oils are used as natural preservatives and flavourings for food. The most popular of these include lemon oil, oregano oil, basil oil, thyme oil and rosemary oil. Essential oils can be added to food in several ways; you can add a few drops of the undiluted essential oil directly to dishes while cooking or mix

Essential Oils for Therapy, Massage and Cosmetics

Using essential oils with a carrier oil such as odorless coconut oil is an effective way to enjoy the benefits of aromatherapy. To use essential oils safely and effectively, you should always dilute them with a carrier oil. A typical dilution ratio for essential oils is 3-5 drops of essential oil per tablespoon (15 mL) of carrier oil.

To mix the oils, start by adding the measured amount of carrier oil into a clean glass or ceramic bowl. Then add the drops of essential oil, one at a time. Mix the oils together with a spoon, stirring until they are completely blended before using. It’s important to use glass or ceramic bowls when mixing essential oils as they won’t absorb any of the aromatic compounds from the essential oils.

Essential Oil Facts: What are BYP’s? Concerning?

BYPs, or “byproducts,” are compounds formed from the production of essential oils. These byproducts can be dangerous if not treated properly, as some of them are toxic or flammable. Therefore, when using essential oils for therapeutic purposes, it is important to make sure that no BYPs have been formed during the production process.

The potential application of BYPs depends on their type and composition. For instance, some BYPs are thought to contain beneficial aroma molecules which may have therapeutic applications when inhaled. Other BYPs may be used in cosmetics products as active ingredients due to their natural antibacterial or antifungal properties. Additionally, some BYPs may even be used as raw materials in industrial processes such as fuel synthesis and polymer manufacturing.

In conclusion, although there are risks associated with BYPs formed from essential oil production, they also have many potential applications that could benefit us in various ways. When using essential oils for therapeutic purposes, it is important to ensure no unsafe levels of byproducts are present.

Conclusion

In conclusion, using essential oils for food, therapy, massage and cosmetics requires knowledge of safe dilution ratios and identifying any potential byproducts. It is important to use a carrier oil when mixing essential oils with other ingredients when used on skin. Make sure to always check the labels for safety information about the essential oil and what grade it is for which application.

When used properly, essential oils can provide numerous benefits for cooking, therapy and beauty. Shop now to find the perfect fit for you!