For more than 6,000 years, healers have turned to essential oils for therapeutic and medicinal properties. According to the Maryland University Medical Center, aromatherapy may ease symptoms of dozens of diseases and conditions, including anxiety, depression, pain, infection, hormonal disruptions, arthritis, headaches and constipation. While this ancient holistic practice is generally safe, it is associated with several drawbacks and disadvantages.
Lack of Regulation
The National Association for Holistic Aromatherapy notes that the practice is a largely unregulated field. There are no legal restrictions restrictions governing who can practice aromatherapy. Undertrained laymen may practice aromatherapy without sufficient understanding of the potential risks associated with some oils.
Skin Irritation
The University of Maryland Medical Center notes that some essential oils may cause rashes or skin irritation, particularly in people with pre-existing allergies or skin conditions. Essential oils containing phenols, such as cinnamon and clove, are particularly irritating to the skin.
Hormonal Effects
Several essential oils contain estrogen-like compounds that may affect the human endocrine system. Maryland University Medical Center advises pregnant women and people with hormone-sensitive cancers to avoid sage, clary-sage, fennel, anise and other estrogenic oils.
Drug Interactions
Rarely, essential oils used in aromatherapy may interact with drugs. Hyssop oil and eucalyptus may decrease the effectiveness of anticonvulsant drugs used to treat epilepsy, and calming oils like lavender can cause excessive drowsiness when coupled with sedatives. Tell your aromatherapy practitioner about any medications you take.
Difficulty Breathing
Essential oils like eucalyptus and peppermint may help to dilate the airways and loosen phlegm, but they can be harmful to infants and people with asthma. The National Institutes of Health warn that peppermint oil can cause serious breathing problems in young babies, and many essential oils will trigger asthma attacks in people who are sensitive to volatile oils.
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