emilygu's Journal, 14 September 2017

I know who swear by them (this is probably because they also are trying to get me to buy them). Aromatherapy has been around for centuries (way before the invention of modern medicine) so it is my belief that they are not useless. Some varieties can work as antiseptics to help clean wounds or treat skin infections, but from what I have read, the effects are overrated (especially when it comes to the more serious health claims) and more psychological in nature than physical. Will it hurt to use them? Not likely, after all you are just putting oils on your skin or inhaling the vapors. Plus, I one of my "sales-friends" would mix her oils to make exotic smelling scents that could be worn as perfume, so there is another use for them. Keep in mind, however, like most alt medicine, essential oils are not regulated by the FDA, so use with care. My wife once got a bad rash from a peppermint oil she bought for stress relief at a flea market, so it is probably important that you get them from a reputable source. 

Very true. I was thinking about getting some but I don't think I will at this time. Was curious as to who does use them. Looks like no one does. Lady at work swears by them but I don't know. Lol 

I would do a lot of research before dipping into this. I think there is some benefit but just like anything else it takes time to separate out the hustlers and charlatans.  

I'm probably one of the few people who has done a lot of research on essential oils. They do have some science to back them up in terms of antiseptic ability as stated above, but primarily they're known for their ability to affect one's mental state and mood. Some help you relax and get to sleep, while others give you energy, and still others prevent you from throwing up. If you've ever been to a hospital and seen someone pass out, I'm sure you're aware of smelling salts. Essential oils are like those, and, in fact, some pretty prestigious hospitals like the Mayo Clinic use oils like spearmint to help patients with nausea and headaches. Long story short: different oils have different effects, which have been proven in science; if you're going to get some, get them from a reputable seller; please please please learn how to properly use them before getting them. 

@poofwiz I'm sorry to hear about your wife, but I'm 99% certain she used the oil wrong if she got a rash. I'm assuming she applied the essential oil directly to her skin, which is a big nono in the essential oil community. Because essential oils are so concentrated, you have to dilute them to about 3-4% concentration with a carrier oil such as almond oil or coconut oil if you will be applying them to skin. Otherwise, you will experience a burn or rash like she had. Likely, she's bought diluted oils in the past and thought that one was also diluted, when if fact it was not.