For the recipes in this article, the standard bottle used is a one-dram bottle. That's equal to ⅛ of an ounce or 1
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Now, let's talk about “parts.” The brilliance of parts is that they're relative. A part could be a teaspoon, a cup, or a bucket. So, whether you’re making a dram, an ounce, or a gallon, it's about ratios. As you mix, your kitchen might just feel like a lab, with you as the alchemist! You’ll need glass eyedroppers for precision. A dozen should be a good start. Clean them by soaking in isopropyl alcohol and let them air dry. A Pyrex measuring cup will be your trusty sidekick for larger quantities. Please, no plastic. Oils have appetites and will gnaw through plastic.
When recipes say “a few drops,” use an eyedropper. When crafting oils for yourself, don’t hesitate to let your intuition guide you. It’s your personal potion; make it something that resonates with your soul. Keep in mind, though, that memory is not as ironclad as I'd like it to be. Write everything down – moon phase, day, time, and ingredients. Trust me; you’ll be glad you did.
Now, how about adding herbs and gemstones? It’s like inviting earth’s vitality into your potion. A dash of herbs or a tiny gemstone can bring an extra touch of magic. And while you're at it, experiment with fragrance oils. They're pocket-friendly and a great way to practice before venturing into essential oils.
Speaking of essential oils, using a carrier oil is highly recommended. It’s like a congenial host that blends beautifully with other oils, enhancing their properties.
There are several reasons why certain essential oils should not be used due to their potential harmful effects. Below is a detailed explanation of why the listed essential oils should be avoided:
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Bitter Almond: Contains amygdalin, which breaks down into cyanide when ingested. It is highly toxic and can cause breathing problems, seizures, and even death.
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Sassafras: Contains safrole, a compound that has been linked to cancer. The FDA banned the use of sassafras oil as a food additive or flavoring due to its carcinogenic properties.
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Boldo Leaf: Can be highly toxic to the liver and kidneys, and can also cause convulsions and coma in high doses.
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Savin: Contains toxic compounds that can cause irritation to the skin and mucous membranes, and can be fatal if ingested.
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Calamus: Contains beta-asarone, which is considered carcinogenic. It's been banned in the US as a food additive and is not recommended for use on the skin.
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Southernwood: Little is known about the safety of this oil, but it is considered potentially toxic and can cause severe irritation.
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Horseradish: The oil is very strong and can cause severe irritation to the skin and mucous membranes. It should be used with extreme caution and never ingested.
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Tansy: Contains thujone, which is toxic to the brain and nervous system. It can cause seizures and liver damage.
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Jaborandi Leaf: Contains pilocarpine, which can be toxic in large amounts. It can cause sweating, salivation, nausea, and even respiratory failure.
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Thuja: Contains thujone, which can be toxic to the brain and nervous system. Like Tansy, it can cause seizures and liver damage.
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Mugwort: Can be toxic in large amounts and is an abortifacient, meaning it can cause miscarriages.
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Wintergreen: Contains high amounts of methyl salicylate, which is similar to aspirin and can be toxic in high doses. It can cause ringing in the ears, nausea, vomiting, confusion, and even death.
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Mustard: This oil can be highly irritating to the skin and mucous membranes and can cause blistering.
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Wormseed: Can be highly toxic to the liver and kidneys and can cause seizures and death in high doses.
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Pennyroyal: Contains pulegone, which is toxic to the liver and can also cause seizures. It is also an abortifacient and can be deadly in high doses.
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Wormwood: Contains thujone, and like Tansy and Thuja, it can be toxic to the brain and nervous system.
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Rue: Can be highly irritating to the skin and mucous membranes. It can also cause photosensitivity and is toxic in high doses.
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Yellow Camphor: This should not be confused with white camphor which is used in medicinal products. Yellow camphor oil is toxic and can cause respiratory distress, seizures, and death.
Before we wrap up, a word of caution, essential oils are potent extracts from plants and can have significant effects on the body. Never ingest them; always consult a licensed aromatherapist or healthcare professional before use, especially if you have underlying health conditions or are pregnant. For those with sensitive skin, it’s essential to perform a patch test. Some oils can make your skin more sensitive to sunlight, so avoiding sun exposure after application is best. Moreover, pregnant and breastfeeding individuals should be particularly cautious, as certain oils can be harmful.
Updated Precautionary Safety Notes:
• Essential oils are highly concentrated and can have various effects on the body. They should be handled with care and respect.
• Never ingest essential oils, as they can be toxic and harmful when taken orally. Some oils, like bitter almond, contain compounds that can convert into cyanide in the body.
• Before using essential oils, especially for individuals with epilepsy, heart disease, high blood pressure, or other health conditions, it’s imperative to consult a licensed aromatherapist or healthcare professional.
• Essential oils should be used sparingly and with caution on children. They are generally not recommended for infants and should only be used therapeutically and in diluted form on young children under expert guidance.
• Always dilute essential oils with a carrier oil before applying them to the skin. This minimizes the risk of skin irritation and sensitization.
• Conduct a patch test by applying a small amount of diluted essential oil to the inside of your elbow and waiting for 24 hours to see if any reaction occurs.
• Keep essential oils away from eyes and ears as they can cause irritation and be harmful in these sensitive areas.
• Be aware of photosensitivity with certain oils, especially citrus oils and Angelica. These oils can make the skin more sensitive to sunlight, which can lead to burns or rashes.
• Pregnant and breastfeeding individuals should exercise extreme caution. Some oils, like pennyroyal and mugwort, can cause contractions and are potentially harmful to both the mother and unborn child.
• Certain essential oils, such as wintergreen, mustard, and sassafras, should be avoided altogether due to their high toxicity levels or potential carcinogenic properties.
• Always store essential oils out of reach of children and pets and ensure they are properly sealed to maintain their properties.
• Educate yourself and be informed. Understanding the properties, benefits, and potential risks of essential oils is crucial for safe and effective use.
Thank you for joining me on this enlightening journey into the heart of measuring and blending oils. Making your own oils can be an incredibly fun and beneficial experience. It allows you to unleash your creativity and tailor the blends to your personal preferences and needs.
Please don’t be daunted by the precautions; they are meant to ensure your safety. With knowledge and caution, you can dive into this art confidently. Use your intuition and common sense, backed by the information provided here. The process of crafting oils can be very empowering and spiritually fulfilling. Your potions will be a reflection of your inner essence and personal energy.
As you experiment and explore, remember that this is an opportunity to bring a little bit of magic into your everyday life. Don’t hesitate to reach out if you have questions or need further clarification on anything discussed. Feel free to post your questions in the comments section below. I'm here to support you on this exciting journey.
Until next time, may your creativity flow like a river and your potions be as potent as your intentions. Happy blending!
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