Aromatherapy sensitization effect

A GC analysis is shown in Chapter 5 (Fig. 5.2). The oil is non-toxic, nonirritant and generally non-sensitizing, but there is a chance of contact dermatitis with sensitive individuals. It has many uses in cosmetics, fragrances and flavourings. In aromatherapy it has been attributed beneficial effects in a variety of conditions including menstrual disorders, and as an anti-inflammatory, diuretic, antiseptic, antidepressant, calmative and balancing for the endocrine system. 

Aromatherapists themselves have also been affected by sensitization (Crawford et al., 2004) in a 12 month period under study, prevalence of hand dermatitis in a sample of massage therapists was 15% by self-reported criteria and 23% by a symptom-based method and included the use of aromatherapy products in massage oils, lotions, or creams. In contrast, the suggestion that aromatherapists have any adverse effects to long-term usage of essential oils was apparently disproved by a nonscienti c survey (Price and Price, 1999). 

Many essential oils are inherently toxic at very low concentrations due to very toxic components these are not normally used in aromatherapy. Many essential oils that are considered to be nontoxic can have a toxic effect on some people this can be influenced by previous sensitization to a given essential oil, a group of essential oils containing similar components, or some adulterant in the essential oil. It can also be influenced by the age of the person babies and young children are especially vulnerable and so are very old people. The influence of other medicaments, both conventional and herbal, is still in the preliminary stages of being studied. It is possible that these medicaments, and also probably household products, including perfumes and cosmetics, can influence the adverse reactions to essential oils. 

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