Have you ever used essential oils to help calm your mind after a long, stressful day? Many of us do! Whether it's in a diffuser or simply sniffing from a bottle, essential oils can add a sense of tranquility to our busy lives.

But just like with everything, moderation is key. In fact, experts warn that overusing essential oils can actually harm your health. Let's dive into why we should be careful with how much we use.

Experts Weigh In: The Key is Control

Dr. Zhao Mingwei, a toxicologist and associate professor at Chung Yuan University, emphasizes that the amount of essential oil we inhale plays a huge role in whether it's beneficial or harmful. While many manufacturers add fixatives, fragrances, surfactants, and solvent to improve the scent diffusion, these additional ingredients can cause negative effects on our lungs, liver, and kidneys if inhaled in large amounts. This is why it's crucial to control the dosage of essential oils you are using.

How Aromatherapy Works

One of the most popular ways to use essential oils is through aromatherapy. When essential oils are diffused into the air, they're absorbed by the nasal mucous membranes. They quickly enter the bloodstream through capillaries and circulate throughout the body. This process can happen even while we sleep, so we're essentially absorbing the oils without even realizing it.

Inhaling small amounts of essential oils over a long period of time is a gentle and safe method. It places the least burden on the liver and can even be beneficial for those with weakened immune systems, such as babies or those recovering from illness.

The Emotional and Physical Benefits

Aromatherapy isn't just about relaxation—it can also improve our mood, enhance memory, and even balance our hormones. The fragrance from essential oils activates the olfactory system, which directly connects to the brain's limbic system, the part that regulates our emotions and memories. That's why certain scents can trigger such strong emotional responses or vivid memories.

Additionally, essential oils can be effective in combating airborne viruses and bacteria. When diffused, they help reduce the chances of harmful microorganisms entering the body. They can even directly suppress the bacteria and viruses that have settled in the respiratory tract, reducing inflammation and easing symptoms like sore throats or coughs.

Essential Oils and Respiratory Health

Several studies have shown that essential oils can help with conditions like sinusitis, sore throats, asthma, bronchitis, and even lung-related issues. Dr. Zhao Mingwei points out that several years ago, research found that diffusing essential oils into the air could reduce the concentration of harmful chemicals, remove bad odors caused by air pollution, and even lower the chances of spreading contagious diseases.

Furthermore, essential oils have pest-repelling properties. Many plants naturally produce aromatic compounds that help fend off insects. For instance, some essential oils can keep mosquitoes, flies, and moths at bay.

Air Quality and Overuse: A Warning

However, as with most things, overuse can have negative consequences. Studies show that excessive use of essential oils can increase levels of carbon monoxide and suspended particles in indoor air. If these oils mix with ozone in the air, harmful byproducts like formaldehyde may form, leading to air pollution.

This can cause headaches, dizziness, and other discomforts. Dr. Zhao recommends always ensuring proper ventilation when using essential oils, whether in a diffuser or any other form. Open windows or use air purifiers to ensure the air stays fresh and clean while you're benefiting from the oils.

Moderation is the Key

In conclusion, while essential oils can bring many benefits—emotionally and physically—it's important that we use them responsibly. We should aim for a balanced, controlled usage and ensure the space we're in is well-ventilated. This way, we can enjoy all the positive effects of essential oils without compromising our health.

So, Lykkers, let's take a moment to think about how we use essential oils in our daily lives. Are we controlling the dosage? Are we ensuring the air quality remains healthy? By paying attention to these factors, we can enjoy the wonderful benefits of aromatherapy without overdoing it.

Are Essential Oils Safe? 10 Dangers of Essential Oil Use

Video by Healing Harvest Homestead | Herbalist School