While essential oils offer numerous benefits, they also pose certain risks, particularly when used improperly. Some of the potential hazards include:
Allergic Reactions: Essential oils can cause allergic reactions, ranging from mild skin irritation to severe anaphylaxis, especially in individuals with sensitive skin. Toxicity: Some essential oils, such as pennyroyal and wintergreen, are toxic if ingested even in small quantities. They contain compounds that can be hepatotoxic or neurotoxic. Photosensitivity: Oils like bergamot and lime can increase the skin's sensitivity to sunlight, leading to severe sunburns or blisters. Endocrine Disruption: Certain essential oils have been suggested to act as endocrine disruptors, affecting hormonal balance and potentially posing risks to reproductive health.
