The answer is yes, it is safe to breathe in essential oils, and it may even be beneficial for your mental and physical health. Inhaling essential oils can be a pleasant experience due to their wonderful aromas and scents, but it is important to be aware of the potential risks. In general, if you can only smell the essential oil, the area is not well ventilated and you may be at risk of irritating your respiratory system. It is recommended to not add more than five to six drops of essential oil to a diffuser at a time.
Additionally, some essential oils may cause an adverse reaction when used with other medications or supplements. If you are using a diffuser in the bathtub, make sure it does not come into contact with water as this could cause a safety issue. It is also important to note that some essential oils can cause skin irritation when applied directly to the skin without being diluted. Pregnant women and people with hormone-related medical conditions should consult their doctor before using essential oils topically or with a diffuser.
Although there is some preliminary research that suggests that essential oils may have some health benefits for pets, there is no evidence that they can help with asthma. If you are interested in trying complementary therapies, you can opt for something like meditation and conscious breathing techniques instead. Finally, it is important to store essential oils in a lockable case and keep them in a cupboard out of reach. Additionally, make sure to check the Food and Drug Administration's Generally Recognized Safe (GRAS) list for oils that can be used in minimum quantities for cooking.
