Topical application is widely used for the benefits in a localized area plus providing support to the body overall. If new to essential oils it is wise, to begin with, dilution due to the high concentration of these amazing oils. Dilution is beneficial by adding surface area absorption, improving the absorption of the oil through dry skin and preventing any skin irritation. I use Doterra’s fractionated coconut oil because it is not heavy and virtually odorless.
According to Dr. Tisserand when we use the oils topically we only benefit from approximately 5%. This is why when you share with someone and they say “that just didn’t work for me” they were most likely using them once or twice topically. With topical application, we need to apply more often. In an acute situation every 15-30 minutes. Don’t be afraid to rub the oils in.
The question arises where to apply these oils? Generally speaking, the oils should be applied where there is an issue. So if a client comes to me with abdominal discomfort I would recommend Digestzen over their belly. If a person is having tension in their head I would suggest Peppermint or Past Tense to the temples. Although when in doubt about where to apply use your feet. The feet have large pores that accelerate absorption.
Neat: These essential oils can be applied topically without dilution because of their extremely low or mild chemistry makeup. examples-frankincense, lavender, melaleuca, and sandalwood
Dilute: These oils are stronger in chemistry and should be cut initially or diluted for topical application to reduce or minimize the risk of sensitivity. examples-clove, cassia, cinnamon, oregano, and thyme. Often called Hot oils. They tend to cause a burning sensation without a carrier oil.
Sensitive: Theses oils should be diluted for use with young or delicate skin. examples-bergamot, black pepper, eucalyptus, ginger, and peppermint.
Although rare, sometimes we can have a sensitivity response to a specific oil. This a result of an over-reaction of the body to the oil causing a potential skin irritation or unwanted symptom.
To reduce this risk it is important to be mindful of our own body and how it reacts to different essential oils, their application, and the amount applied.
According to Dr. Scott A. Johnson, when beginning with a new oil do your own sensitivity testing by applying a small amount of the new essential oil to the underside of the arm and observe for any redness or irritation. If redness or irritation occurs apply a pure carrier oil (olive, coconut, jojoba, etc.) but never water. Water will push the oils in and increase potency rapidly. Do no mix essential oils with or place over perfumes, deodorants, or other products with chemicals present. The essential oils can react with these and lead to skin sensitivity. If severe irritation or redness occurs apply 1-2 drops of the essential oil to a teaspoon of carrier oil before application.
Keep in mind essential oils are very potent!
One 15 ml bottle of Doterra refreshing Lemon oil takes approximately 50 lemons to make and no – it is not juice. It is distilled from the oil in the rind from orchards in Sicily. When sourcing calming Lavender it takes about 3 pounds of Lavender from France to make a 15 ml bottle.
Safety Tip
We must be aware that citrus oils contain compounds called furocoumarins that cause photosensitivity. Please avoid sunlight, sunlamps, or any UV light for up to 12 hours after topical application of these oils. Apply oils at the end of the day or apply oils to areas that aren’t exposed to the sun.
List of Photosensitive Essential Oils
AromaTouch, Bergamot, Citrus Bliss, Cumin, Breathe, Cheer, Forgive, Motivate, On Guard, Elevation, Grapefruit, InTune, Lemon, Lime, Purify, Slim & Sassy, Tangerine, Wild Orange, & Zendocrine.
In closing, I just want to remind all of you how important the skin is. This is our largest organ and it is a straight line into the systemic system. Why would we run the risk of using an inferior substance on it or those we love? Doterra removes that risk by being the most tested and trusted essential oil company known. It is no coincidence that over 6 million people recognize this and choose them as their essential oil provider. How about you? What are you using on your skin?
Resources:
Dr. Tisserand
Dr. Scott A. Johnson-Medicinal Essential Oils The Science and Practice of Evidence-Based Essential Oil Therapy, Utah, Scott A. Johnson, 2017
Doterra Living Spring of 2015-pg 22-23
