Aromatherapy Safety and Practice Flashcards

Which essential oil is commonly contraindicated during pregnancy?

Answer: Clary sage

Clary sage is often avoided in pregnancy due to concerns about stimulating contractions.

What is the safest way to use essential oils around pets like cats?

Answer: With caution or avoidance, as cats lack enzymes to process them

Cats cannot metabolize many compounds in essential oils, so use is limited or avoided.

What should you do first if an essential oil gets into the eyes?

Answer: Flush with a carrier oil, then seek medical help

Because oils don't mix with water, flushing with a carrier oil dilutes and removes them best.

Which of these is a proper safety practice when diffusing essential oils?

Answer: Diffuse intermittently in a ventilated room

Intermittent diffusion with ventilation prevents overexposure and respiratory irritation.

Why is ingesting essential oils generally discouraged without professional guidance?

Answer: They are highly concentrated and can be toxic internally

Essential oils are potent and can cause internal toxicity or organ damage if ingested improperly.

What is 'sensitization' in the context of essential oil use?

Answer: An immune reaction after repeated exposure

Sensitization is an allergic response that develops after repeated exposure to an oil.

Which oil is known for strong 'hot' or warming skin effects requiring careful dilution?

Answer: Cinnamon bark

Cinnamon bark oil is a known dermal irritant that must be heavily diluted.