Taking Essential Oils Orally?
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Taking Essential Oils Orally?
The internal use of essential oils is gaining a great deal of attention lately as a potential treatment for a variety of health concerns. Essential oils are believed to provide a number of health benefits due to their natural anti-inflammatory and anti-bacterial effects. As a result, many people are using essential oils internally for immune system support, in addition to addressing a variety of other health issues.
Those who are contemplating taking essential oils internally should always consult with their doctor first, as not all essential oils are safe to take internally. There are also certain contraindications that need to be taken into consideration, depending on the type of oil being used.
Before delving into this broader topic, it is beneficial to understand what is categorized as internal use of essential oils.
Internal use encompasses:
1. Oral intake of essential oils
2. The insertion of suppositories on the transvaginal and rectal areas
3. Rinsing one's mouth with a mouthwash containing essential oils, and
4. The application of essential oils on any other body orifices such as the nose, ears, and eyes.
Listed below are some of the essential oils that are safe for internal use.
Fennel
The German Commission E has declared Foeniculum vulgare Miller var. vulgare (Fennel) suitable for treating conditions such as gastric spasms, bloating, and flatulence. It has also been used to tackle related issues in the upper respiratory tract. Its main action is to stimulate gastric activity and in higher doses, it is also capable of producing an antispasmodic effect. Moreover, research has confirmed that Anethole and Fennel possess properties that can encourage secretions in the respiratory tract.
For catarrh of the upper respiratory tract in children, fennel honey is a recommended remedy. To make this beneficial honey, 0.5 g of its essential oil must be added to 1 kilogram of honey. The suggested daily dose of this honey should be between 10-20 g and can be safely administered to children too.
The recommended daily use of essential fennel oil is between 0.1 and 0.6 ml, or 0.1 and 0.6 grams of the plant. For safety, it is important not to use fennel preparations for extended periods (several weeks) without the approval of a physician or pharmacist. During pregnancy and in infants/children, internal use of fennel essential oil is not advised, and an infusion should be used instead.
Anise
Anise, or Pimpinella anisum L., is traditionally used as a home remedy to treat indigestion, acting as a calming agent that helps the stomach relax in order to ease digestive discomfort. The average daily intake of essential oil in anise for adults is 0.3 grams, providing a range of benefits, including improved digestion and the reduction of inflammation.
Anise also offers an aroma that can help with sleep and relaxation, which can further aid digestion. Those with indigestion issues should consult a doctor, as they can advise if taking anise is beneficial and the proper daily dosage.
Caraway
Caraway (Carum carvi L.) may assist with minor and spasmodic issues relating to the digestive system, such as flatulence, bloating and other forms of indigestion. It is recommended to take 3 to 6 drops per day as part of a regular regime, with no known contraindications.
Cinnamon bark
Cinnamomum verum J.S. Presl (also known as C. zeylanicum flower) bark is an effective treatment for gastrointestinal disorders such as anorexia, mild gastrointestinal cramps, and flatulence. It also has antibacterial, antifungal, and motility-improving properties.
It is essential to use up to 0.2 grams of essential oil per day for regular use. Be aware that allergic reactions of the skin and mucous membranes occur frequently. Pregnant individuals and those with an allergy to cinnamon or Peru balsam should not use essential oils. It is extremely important to note that if essential oil is taken orally, it must be combined with an appropriate carrier oil and placed in a capsule to prevent burning of the gastrointestinal tract.
Eucalyptus
Eucalyptus (scientific name Eucalyptus spp.) such as E. globulus and E. radiata can be used both internally and externally to treat catarrh in the respiratory system. However, it is not recommended for people with inflammatory diseases of the gastrointestinal or biliary tract, or for those with severe liver disease. An average daily dose for internal use is 0.3-0.6g of eucalyptus oil. Rare but possible side effects of taking eucalyptus preparations may include nausea, vomiting and diarrhea.
Lavender
Lavender flower (Lavandula angustifolia) is indicated for internal use to treat agitation, insomnia, and other mood disorders as well as functional abdominal discomfort (Roemheld's syndrome, neurogenic inflammation of the stomach, flatulence, and nervous bowel discomfort). The daily use of lavender oil consists of 1-4 drops (approximately 20-80 mg) with a sugar cube being the most common method.
Rose
Rose Essential Oil is best known for its positive effects on mental health. Rich in Citronellol, this essential oil offers remarkable sedative, stress-relieving and anti-depressive effects due to its calming aroma. Preliminary evidence suggests that when inhaled or used topically, it can help reduce anxiety and improve mood. Other claims report its use as a remedy for insomnia, fatigue, irritability and other mental health issues. Rose oil is a safe and natural alternative for those looking to improve their mental health and overall wellbeing. With ongoing research and use, the benefits of rose oil may be further explored in the future.
Additional Resources
1. https://www.youngliving.com/blog/which-essential-oils-are-safe-to-ingest/
2. https://ifaroma.org/en_GB/home/news/ingestion-and-neat-application-essential-oils-guidelines
The internal use of essential oils is gaining a great deal of attention lately as a potential treatment for a variety of health concerns. Essential oils are believed to provide a number of health benefits due to their natural anti-inflammatory and anti-bacterial effects. As a result, many people are using essential oils internally for immune system support, in addition to addressing a variety of other health issues.
Those who are contemplating taking essential oils internally should always consult with their doctor first, as not all essential oils are safe to take internally. There are also certain contraindications that need to be taken into consideration, depending on the type of oil being used.
Before delving into this broader topic, it is beneficial to understand what is categorized as internal use of essential oils.
Internal use encompasses:
1. Oral intake of essential oils
2. The insertion of suppositories on the transvaginal and rectal areas
3. Rinsing one's mouth with a mouthwash containing essential oils, and
4. The application of essential oils on any other body orifices such as the nose, ears, and eyes.
Listed below are some of the essential oils that are safe for internal use.
Fennel
The German Commission E has declared Foeniculum vulgare Miller var. vulgare (Fennel) suitable for treating conditions such as gastric spasms, bloating, and flatulence. It has also been used to tackle related issues in the upper respiratory tract. Its main action is to stimulate gastric activity and in higher doses, it is also capable of producing an antispasmodic effect. Moreover, research has confirmed that Anethole and Fennel possess properties that can encourage secretions in the respiratory tract.
For catarrh of the upper respiratory tract in children, fennel honey is a recommended remedy. To make this beneficial honey, 0.5 g of its essential oil must be added to 1 kilogram of honey. The suggested daily dose of this honey should be between 10-20 g and can be safely administered to children too.
The recommended daily use of essential fennel oil is between 0.1 and 0.6 ml, or 0.1 and 0.6 grams of the plant. For safety, it is important not to use fennel preparations for extended periods (several weeks) without the approval of a physician or pharmacist. During pregnancy and in infants/children, internal use of fennel essential oil is not advised, and an infusion should be used instead.
Anise
Anise, or Pimpinella anisum L., is traditionally used as a home remedy to treat indigestion, acting as a calming agent that helps the stomach relax in order to ease digestive discomfort. The average daily intake of essential oil in anise for adults is 0.3 grams, providing a range of benefits, including improved digestion and the reduction of inflammation.
Anise also offers an aroma that can help with sleep and relaxation, which can further aid digestion. Those with indigestion issues should consult a doctor, as they can advise if taking anise is beneficial and the proper daily dosage.
Caraway
Caraway (Carum carvi L.) may assist with minor and spasmodic issues relating to the digestive system, such as flatulence, bloating and other forms of indigestion. It is recommended to take 3 to 6 drops per day as part of a regular regime, with no known contraindications.
Cinnamon bark
Cinnamomum verum J.S. Presl (also known as C. zeylanicum flower) bark is an effective treatment for gastrointestinal disorders such as anorexia, mild gastrointestinal cramps, and flatulence. It also has antibacterial, antifungal, and motility-improving properties.
It is essential to use up to 0.2 grams of essential oil per day for regular use. Be aware that allergic reactions of the skin and mucous membranes occur frequently. Pregnant individuals and those with an allergy to cinnamon or Peru balsam should not use essential oils. It is extremely important to note that if essential oil is taken orally, it must be combined with an appropriate carrier oil and placed in a capsule to prevent burning of the gastrointestinal tract.
Eucalyptus
Eucalyptus (scientific name Eucalyptus spp.) such as E. globulus and E. radiata can be used both internally and externally to treat catarrh in the respiratory system. However, it is not recommended for people with inflammatory diseases of the gastrointestinal or biliary tract, or for those with severe liver disease. An average daily dose for internal use is 0.3-0.6g of eucalyptus oil. Rare but possible side effects of taking eucalyptus preparations may include nausea, vomiting and diarrhea.
Lavender
Lavender flower (Lavandula angustifolia) is indicated for internal use to treat agitation, insomnia, and other mood disorders as well as functional abdominal discomfort (Roemheld's syndrome, neurogenic inflammation of the stomach, flatulence, and nervous bowel discomfort). The daily use of lavender oil consists of 1-4 drops (approximately 20-80 mg) with a sugar cube being the most common method.
Rose
Rose Essential Oil is best known for its positive effects on mental health. Rich in Citronellol, this essential oil offers remarkable sedative, stress-relieving and anti-depressive effects due to its calming aroma. Preliminary evidence suggests that when inhaled or used topically, it can help reduce anxiety and improve mood. Other claims report its use as a remedy for insomnia, fatigue, irritability and other mental health issues. Rose oil is a safe and natural alternative for those looking to improve their mental health and overall wellbeing. With ongoing research and use, the benefits of rose oil may be further explored in the future.
Additional Resources
1. https://www.youngliving.com/blog/which-essential-oils-are-safe-to-ingest/
2. https://ifaroma.org/en_GB/home/news/ingestion-and-neat-application-essential-oils-guidelines