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wine tasting, the more you learn the better you can recognize and appreciate quality. Save your money for when you've become more educated and just can't settle for the low end oils. If your goal is to alleviate a specific health condition then it's best to consult with your physician and an Aromatherapist. A qualified Aromatherapist can provide you with guidance and high quality essential oils. With the correct precautions, most essential oils are safe for healthy adults. A general rule: If you would normally take an over-the-counter remedy for your condition then it's probably okay to use essential oils. Something more serious or chronic requires consultation with your physician.

Most essential oils should not be used undiluted on the skin. Children should never be given the same dosage as an adult. Where children are concerned it really is best to consult with your doctor first, then talk to a local Aromatherapist. Consumers should be aware that essential oils have contraindications. For example, all citrus oils (lemon, orange, grapefruit, bergamot, etc.) are phototoxic. This means they intensify the effects of the sun, which is vital information for a person who suffers from sun sensitivity. Stimulating oils should not be used on people who have high blood pressure. In Aromatherapy less is more. Start with less until you become more accustomed to using oils and are familiar with how your body will react to them. Watch out for sensitization- a systemic reaction that can occur with prolonged heavy use of essential oils. Sensitization could show up as unexplained rashes, itching, or irritation, even when oils are not being used. Other things to be careful of are skin irritation, headaches, dizziness, or nausea. If these reactions occur immediately stop using that particular oil or blend. If necessary cleanse the skin with milk or vegetable oil. Decrease the dosage or use a different oil before trying again.

Maybe you'd rather talk to a professional. How would you find one? NAHA.org (National Association for Holistic Aromatherapy) is a good place to start as well as AromatherapyCouncil.org (Aromatherapy Registration Council-ARC). Unlike other alternative health modalities, Aromatherapy as a profession is largely unregulated. While organizations like NAHA encourage minimum education hours, and ARC tests for competency with its registration exam, there is no law that says a person must follow these standards before using the title Aromatherapist or practicing

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