You’ve heard us and probably countless others sing the praises of aromatherapy by now. But, with all the hype often comes misconceptions. Don’t be fooled, though! We’ll help you make sense of all the myths and nonsense about aromatherapy oils.

Myth #1: Aromatherapy cures illnesses

Essential oils, many of which have been or are being studied, are not meant to cure anything that you should seek medical help for instead. Rather, what they do is provide a natural alternative for prevention and treatment of health concerns. By definition, aromatherapy triggers responses from the brain when inhaled that can make you feel better, and some essential oils that are applied to the skin for topical relief may help with symptoms you experience.

It’s also important to note that the Food and Drug Administration actually prohibits essential oils from using the word “cure” on their labels or packaging. So, instead, use them to help with symptoms you experience.

Myth #2: If your skin becomes red or develops a rash after using essential oils, it means your skin is detoxifying

Point blank: rashes are not good. Do not mistake skin irritation and redness as a good thing when it comes to essential oils. It could be very dangerous if you do! Instead, stop using the essential oil that caused the reaction, dilute the oil before trying again, and, ideally, consult your doctor if the rash lingers or brings about other side effects.

Myth #3: All essential oils can be ingested because they are natural

Not everything found in nature is safe for consumption. Even the ones that are commonly considered safe for ingesting may not sit well with you. So, how do you determine if you can safely consume an essential oil? Treat them like you would a medication or diet change and speak to your doctor before you start ingesting them. You should also make sure that you understand common side effects and dosage limitations, and immediately stop using any essential oils that are causing negative side effects.

Myth #4: Essential oils don’t go bad

Most essential oils have long shelf-lives, but none of them last forever. The truth of the matter is that essential oils will remain effective and fresh for quite some time before oxidation degrades the properties within them that makes them effective; this happens the more you open the container, so there’s not really anything you can do about it.

One way to slow the deterioration of essential oils is to store them in the refrigerator. Doing so ensures that there is limited air space surrounding the oil. Even still, they will eventually lose their effectiveness with time, so be sure to research your oils to understand how long they each might last.

Final thoughts

Though they aren’t a cure all, using essential oils or aromatherapy oils can provide quite a bit of relief to those struggling with health issues. Just make sure to research your oils of choice before you start using any, to avoid any other myths or shortcomings that might be associated with them.

If you’re willing to give aromatherapy oils a try though, you can always get started with Skinny & Co.’s line of products, found here.