The lilac is an upright flowering shrub that is very fragrant while in bloom. Lilac flowers can vary in color, but are commonly light purple, white or pink. Various cultures use the essential oil of the lilac for medicinal remedies. Essential oils, including lilac, generally do not cause side effects, but there is always a possibility of having such a reaction in some people.
Identification
Lilac essential oils are produced by heating up the dried leaves and flowers of the plant. The vapor released by the steam distillation is condensed into oil. Although no scientific research backs up the claims, traditional cultures believe that lilac essential oils help to calm anxiety, reduce fever and treat kidney disease. Many people believe that lilac essential oils also help to treat skin conditions, such as rashes, sunburns and abrasions. Manufacturers add lilac essential oil into soaps and lotions to lend fragrance to their products.
Allergic Reactions
Though rare, there is a chance you may experience skin irritation or an allergic reaction to lilac essential oils if you already have a sensitivity to lilacs. An allergic reaction to lilac essential oil will often present itself through a quickening redness and pain on the area of skin that has come in contact with the oils. Other signs of an allergic reaction may include an itchy rash or hives. These reactions can occur at any time after the first application of the oil. Such reactions generally do not require treatment and usually heal without long-term problems.
Prevention
Dilute the lilac essential oil before you apply it to your skin according to the directions on your oil. Most pure essential oils cannot be directly applied to your skin. Although you can be allergic to the lilac essential oil, you may also be allergic to other properties of the oil, such as synthetic chemicals. Check the label before purchasing a lilac essential oil to ensure purity. The lilac essential oil should state that it is 100 percent essential oil if you want to avoid contact with other chemicals.
Other Precautions
Consult with your physician before you use lilac essential oils, especially if you are taking any prescription medications. Although not well researched, essential oils could potentially interact with some medications. If you have many allergies, do a patch test before using lilac essential oil. Place a few drops on the inside of your forearm. Cover the area with a bandage and check after 48 hours for any skin irritation. If you apply lilac essential oil, use care when going out in the sun afterward because of phototoxicity, which can cause sunburns or other serious side effects.
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