SEPTEMBER 2015 • Vol. 21 No. 7
New York Society of Cosmetic Chemists
www.nyscc.org
Myths and Misinformation About Aromatherapy Oils … by Doug Schoon
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here is no shortage of myths and misinformation about essential oils. Don’t get me wrong; I love essential oils. In fact, I was a very early adopter of their use in cosmetic products found in salons, spas, and retail stores. Their composition, properties, and great potential are fascinating. Interestingly, it was not until recently that I was aware that so many individuals have begun to ingest these oils for their so-called “therapeutic” benefits. Scanning the Internet, it is surprising how many websites promote the ingestion of essential oils, usually to cure a medical ailment, or as a preventative measure for a disease or disorder. Even more worrisome is that many people are encouraged and assisted with self-diagnosis by these websites, and instructed to treat their medical conditions by ingesting essential oils. As a scientist, this is of great concern, especially in terms of the lack of proper safety information and precautions related to the ingestion of essential oils. Improper Use of Essential Oils Aromatherapy oils are cosmetics and are not foods or nutritional supplements, so they are not designed or intended to be ingested. Even individuals who claim to be properly trained admit that the practice of ingesting essential oils can be potentially dangerous without proper training. You wouldn’t know that by reading what’s posted on the Internet by those entities promoting essential oils as a treatment or cure for a wide range of medical conditions, aliments, and disorders. Even professionals who are trained in the use of “therapeutic grade” essential oils will say that essential oils not labeled as therapeutic may be unsafe to ingest. They do not endorse internal therapeutic use unless recommended by a medical doctor or other health care practitioner trained at an appropriate clinical level, and only then with judicious and cautious use. It is important to note what the Alliance of International Aromatherapists (AIA) has this to say on the matter: “AIA does not endorse internal therapeutic use of essential oils unless recommended by a health care practitioner trained at an appropriate clinical level.” It seems that there is some level of concern about the safety of this practice. Here are the problems and future challenges as I see them. There is no generally recognized non-manufacturer body or group that certifies essential oils as therapeutic grade. That’s not to say there is (Continued on page 4)
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SEPTEMBER 24TH • INFORMATION ON PAGE 10