Internal or Oral Use of Essential Oils
Internal or oral use of essential oils is a widely discussed subject. Professional opinions range from that it is safe to use certain essential oils internally to that you should never use any essential oils internally. As a Certified Aromatherapist I would like to advise you, not to take essential oils internally without appropriate aromatherapy education and understanding of the safety issues involved in doing so.
Essential oils are commonly used internally throughout the world. Some individuals are doing so without the appropriate knowledge or understanding of safety concerns. If you are considering using essential oils internally, I recommend doing so under the guidance of a knowledgeable health professional. As a Certified Aromatherapist I want to stress the importance of the quality of the essential oils, that you always need to adhere to label instructions, and never use essential oils internally that are not labeled for internal consumption. Make an informed decision and stay within your comfort zone. Perhaps find some research studies published online about safety concerns and studies on internal use of essential oils. Make sure that it is a trusted source (scientist, medical professional, research institute) as there is a lot of wrong and misleading information on the Internet.
Always follow label instructions of your essential oils to see if your oils are approved for internal consumption!
Why do people use essential oils internally?
People use essential oils internally to support the immune system, digestive system, oral health, natural detoxification of the body, mental clarity or increase their antioxidant intake. Often essential oils are added to water, smoothies, tea and other drinks, taken internally in a veggie cap, added to appetizers, main courses, and desserts, used under the tongue or a drop on the tip of the tongue and then pressed under the roof of the mouth for a few seconds.
Essential Oils Commonly Used Internally
(only when labeled for internal use – many brands can not be used internally!)
Lemon – to support natural detoxification
Ginger Rhizome/Root, Peppermint Plant, Caraway Seed, Coriander Seed, Anise Seed, Tarragon Plant, and Fennel Seed essential oils – to support the digestive system
Blend of Wild Orange, Clove, Cinnamon, Eucalyptus and Rosemary – to support the immune system
Clove – to increase antioxidants in the body
Cilantro, Oregano, Thyme, Rosemary, Basil, Dill, Marjoram, Black Pepper, Peppermint, Lemon, Lemongrass, Wild Orange, Grapefruit, Cinnamon Bark, Ginger, Fennel, Chamomile and Lavender – in smoothies, teas, and preparing healthy dishes to support overall health
Frankincense – under the tongue or tip of tongue pressed under roof of the mouth to support cellular health and mental clarity
Peppermint and Immune Support Blend (Wild Orange, Clove, Cinnamon, Eucalyptus and Rosemary) – to support oral health
Cooking with essential oils also adds exceptional flavors to dishes. Learn more about cooking with essential oils right here on myoilguide.com.
