My first Magazine essential-oils-for-beginners | Page 13

consume, an essential oil can be metabolized by organs like the liver and then excreted. While using essential
oils internally is perhaps one of the most potent methods, our bodies are quite accustomed to and well
equipped for metabolizing essential oils when given in a proper dosage.
Toxicity
As with anything we consume, it is always important to ensure that essential oils are used in appropriate
doses in order to avoid toxicity. Toxicity refers to the point at which a substance becomes harmful or
damaging to the body. Remember, seemingly harmless substances like water, vitamins, and minerals
(substances that are vital to life) can all be toxic when consumed at an inappropriate dose. While essential
oils have the potential for toxicity, the toxic dose of an essential oil is always far above the recommended
appropriate use.
Internal use should be considered on a case-by-case (or oil-by-oil) basis
When it comes to using essential oils internally, you’ll need to consider the specific chemistry of the oil, its
possible effects, appropriate doses, and application methods for each individual oil. It is important to note
that some essential oils simply cannot be used internally—in any amount. Perhaps even more important, the
ability to use an essential oil internally will also depend on the quality of the oil itself.
Other internal usage safety guidelines
The Food and Drug Administration (FDA) has produced a list called Generally Recognized as Safe (GRAS),
which identifies essential oils as safe to be used internally as non-medical constituents. The GRAS list
provides general safety suggestions as well as information about plants and other substances that have
a well-documented history of safe internal use. While there are essential oils with applications that extend
beyond this list, the GRAS list is a credible resource to help confirm the safety of using essential oils internally.
1.
2.
Add to
beverages
3.
Take in the
dōTERRA
Veggie Caps
4.
Put a drop
directly under
your tongue
5.
Take dōTERRA
essential oil
supplements
Use in favorite
recipes
Effective methods for internal application
• Add essential oils to your favorite recipes by replacing fresh or dried herbs and spices with a drop of oil when
cooking or baking
• Place essential oil drops into a veggie capsule and swallow with water (this excludes oils that should always be
diluted—Cassia, Cinnamon, Oregano, etc.)
• Add an essential oil to a glass of water, your morning smoothie, milk, tea, or your other favorite beverages
• Place a few drops of an essential oil into a small amount of yogurt or applesauce