Essential Oil First Aid

Knowing how to respond to essential oil accidents is crucial for every aromatherapy practitioner.

Skin Irritation or Burns

  1. DO: Apply generous amounts of carrier oil (vegetable oil) to dilute
  2. DO: Wash with mild soap after diluting
  3. DON’T: Use water first — it can drive oils deeper into skin
  4. Seek medical help for severe reactions

Eye Contact

  1. Flush with carrier oil first (milk or vegetable oil)
  2. Then flush with clean water for 15 minutes
  3. Seek medical attention immediately
  4. DON’T rub the eye

Ingestion

  1. Do NOT induce vomiting
  2. Give milk or water to drink
  3. Call Poison Control immediately
  4. Bring the oil bottle to the emergency room

Allergic Reaction

  1. Remove the oil source
  2. Apply carrier oil to dilute
  3. Take antihistamine if available
  4. For severe reactions (difficulty breathing, swelling): Call emergency services immediately