The University of Minnesota's Life Sciences foundation reports that there are three primary factors that influence the safety of aromatherapy used for treatments such as massage therapy: the purity, dosage and application of essential oils. For an unfortunate few, aromatherapy can elicit adverse reactions such as skin irritation, respiratory allergies and even burns from photosensitivity. According to the University of Maryland Medical Center, massage therapy with essential oils may benefit people with depression when combined with therapy or medical treatment. A small percentage of people experience adverse reactions.
Skin Irritation
Skin irritation can be an unpleasant result of aromatherapy massage if certain essential oils are used because the skin absorbs the aromatherapy oils used in your massage therapy treatment. Some essential oils, such as thyme, oregano, clove and cinnamon bark, are effective for inhalation but cause irritation if applied to the skin. Even concentrations as low as 3 to 5 percent can elicit such disadvantageous responses.
Phototoxicity
Some citrus oils, such as bergamot, lemon, lime, orange and angelica, can cause severe burns or skin cancer, according to the University of Minnesota, if you are exposed to sunlight following your aromatherapy massage. If you receive an aromatherapy massage with citrus oils, you should stay out of direct sunlight or ultra violet light, such as a tanning bed, to avoid phototoxicity.
Cross Sensitivity
If you have respiratory allergic reactions, such as hay fever for instance, you may then have a similar reaction to chamomile essential oils. The University of Minnesota recommends performing a patch test to determine cross sensitivity. A patch test entails applying a few drops of the aromatherapy massage oil to a band aid and then attaching it to your forearm. The bandage should be removed after 48 hrs to determine any cross sensitive allergic reaction.
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