How to carry out the Allergy Test for an essential oil?

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We often hear about allergies related to essential oils. Indeed, certain essential oils contain allergenic molecules, which can sometimes react with certain people. But everyone is unique when it comes to this phenomenon, and if your terrain is sensitive, do not hesitate to test the HEs beforehand. Note. These allergies are rather rare, and only affect people who have suitable conditions. But as EOs are very concentrated products, they can become very widespread: susceptible people must therefore take the test. In the second chapter of this article, we will learn to tell the difference between an allergy and an irritation.

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Do the allergy test in the crook of the elbow!

Some essential oils contain allergenic molecules. What does it mean ? Quite simply, these are molecules to which certain people may be allergic. You probably know if you are allergic to gluten or green beans (finish your plate), but probably not if you are allergic to Linalool or Limonene.

So, people who are easily allergic should be careful, and test the product by pouring two drops of essential oil into the crook of the elbow .

No reaction after 48 hours? A priori, everything is fine.

Do you notice a skin reaction to a molecule? You did well to take the test. Don't insist any further, and talk to your doctor. Whatever happens, don't panic, and take the opportunity to read the guide below which will help you differentiate between a simple skin irritation and a real sign of allergy.

Allergy or irritation?

Not all signs necessarily indicate that you are allergic! Sometimes it is a simple irritation, due to sensitive skin. Here's how to tell the difference:

Appearance time

Irritation: immediate appearance or after a few applications.
Allergy: most of the time delayed onset (between 24 and 48 hours after application)

Visible signs

Irritation: mild itching, redness, tingling.
Allergy: edema, itching, burning. The severity varies depending on the reaction.

Affected areas

Irritation: only the contact area will be irritated.
Allergy: it can spread to other parts of the body.

Recovery

Irritation: cessation of symptoms when stopping use of the product.
Allergy: slower cessation, possibility of relapses.

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Bibliography

Work : de la Charie, T. (2019). Treat yourself with essential oils. Why and how does it work? Editions du Rocher.

About these tips

This aromatherapy article was written by Théophane de la Charie, author of the book “Treat yourself with essential oils”, accompanied by a multidisciplinary team made up of pharmacists, biochemists and agronomists.

La Compagnie des Sens and its teams do not encourage self-medication. The information and advice provided comes from a reference bibliographic database (books, scientific publications, etc.). They are given for information purposes, or to suggest avenues for reflection: they should in no case replace a diagnosis, consultation or medical follow-up, and cannot engage the liability of the Compagnie des Sens.