Oils that Should Not be used in Aromatherapy

While the list above is oils that can be dangerous in certain situations there are other oils that should not be used in aromatherapy at all. These oils can be caustic if inhaled and should be avoided at all costs. This is not a comprehensive list, you should do research on any oil you plan to use before you purchase it.

Almond

Contains cyanide which even in small amounts can be lethal.

Aniseed

Skin irritant.

Arnica

Can cause dizziness and heart irregularities

Bergamot

Phototoxic, severe sunburn could occur if it is exposed to sunlight.

Boldo Leaf

Produces convulsions even in small quantities.

Calamus

Has carcinogenic (cancer causing) properties and can cause kidney and liver damage.

Camphor

Oral ingestion can be toxic.

Cassia

Skin and mucous membrane irritant.

Cinnamon Bark

Skin irritant.

Costus

Skin irritant.

Elecampane

Classified as a serious skin irritant.

Fennel

Can cause epileptic episodes.

Horseradish

Eye, skin, nose, and mucous membrane irritant.

Jaborandi Leaf

Oral toxin, skin irritant.

Mustard

Skin and mucous membrane irritant.

Spanish Origanum

Skin and mucous membrane irritant

Dwarf Pine

Skin irritant.

Brazilian Sassafras

Banned by the FDA as a carcinogen and can be toxic even in small amounts.

Savin

Skin irritant.

Southernwood

Toxic to the skin and if taken orally.

Tansy

Can cause convulsions, vomiting, uterine bleeding, and death as a result of an organ or respiratory failure.

Thuja Plicata

Can be a neurotoxin.

Wintergreen

Can be a skin irritant, especially to those with aspirin sensitivity. The oil itself is poisonous.

Wormseed

Toxic to the liver and kidneys suppresses heart function.

Wormwood

Consumption can cause visual and auditory hallucinations and addiction. It can also cause convulsions and be a neurotoxin.

Essential Oils to Completely Avoid

• Mugwart
• Pennyroyal
• Rue
• Sage