Cooking With Essential Oils: Safety Precautions

​Cooking with essential oils is an exciting way to harness the health, potency and aromatic benefits of using essential oils with food. doTERRA explains that "internal use is perhaps the most potent method for using essential oils; however, our bodies are also well-equipped and actually accustomed to metabolizing them".

It's also interesting to know that essential oils are already part of many peoples diets - they may not even be aware of it! For example, sprinkling cinnamon on your oatmeal, drinking peppermint tea, or adding fresh basil leaves to your spaghetti actually means you're consuming aromatic essential oil compounds. 

In addition, "to food, essential oil contributes many health benefits as well as flavoring and aroma properties. When in their concentrated form, essential oils can be used as dietary supplements for more targeted and potent health benefits".

For a list of essential oils that can be used internally or in cooking, baking or drinks, click here.
​
As with any ingredient that you intend to ingest or share with others, it can be important to consider the safety, appropriate dosage, and methods of use prior to using essential oils in your cooking. This article will explore these safety precautions and considerations.

Safety Precautions

Essential oils (EO's) are highly concentrated and should be used following safety guidelines**.

• Use only high quality, pure, therapeutic-grade essential oils 
• Check EO label or information to ensure EO is safe to be used internally
• Children and pregnant women should use caution when ingesting certain oils
• Keep EO bottle out of reach of children and pets or use a safety locking cap

---

Flirty Aprons

Flirty Aprons are made from high-quality fabric and 100% cotton to make you feel comfortable while looking stylish in the kitchen.

Your apron should be as distinctive as you and your cooking and with so many different styles to choose from including a mixture of distinctive geometrics, artful floral elegance, exciting patterns, and modern high-fashion flair you are bound to find an apron that you love.

You can even customize your apron with a message or your name. And at a super affordable price! 

Find your apron

---

Appropriate Dosage: Internal Use

When using essential oils internally, it can be important to read the label or instructions prior to use in order to understand the appropriate dosage that can be taken. doTERRA.com shares:

"Most essential oils are very safe when used internally, but it is important to be aware of proper dosage protocols. The effective internal dose and frequency is dependent on many factors that vary widely from person to person. The necessary dose may change based on the age, size, and health status of the person, as well as their desired health benefit. When using essential oils internally, it is important to regard them with as much precaution as any other supplement. It is best to start with the lowest possible dose (1–2 drops) and then increase the dose as needed.

The recommended internal dose of essential oils is 1–5 drops, depending on the oil or blend. After a certain point, taking a higher dose no longer adds benefit. If you take too much, it can even become harmful. It is better to take a smaller dose, which can be repeated every 4–6 hours as needed. In total, typically no more than 20 drops, divided into doses, should be consumed in a 24-hour period.

​The maximum dose may be lower or higher for some oils. If you consume near the maximum dose, you should not continue with that dose for an extended period of time. A lower daily dose is recommended for extended internal use. If a higher dose is desired, it should be taken only under the observation of a physician to ensure that no harm is occurring."

Methods of Internal Use

The following are recommended methods of using essential oils internally:

• Use oils in recipes for cooking or baking to replace fresh or dried herbs and spices. Essential oils are much more potent than dried or fresh herbs and spices, so start with a very small amount. For more potent oils, it may be better to administer them by toothpicks (dip the end of a clean toothpick into the oil and then add to the food) rather than drops.
• Add essential oils to water, smoothies, milk, tea, or other drinks.
• Take essential oils internally in a veggie capsule or add to a small amount of applesauce or yogurt.

---

Tips for Cooking With EO's

Convert:

• EO's are highly concentrated - a little goes a long way!
• Use 1-2 drops or less
• Follow recipe​ instructions
• Make conversations​ of non-EO recipes

Dilute:

• Lessen EO's concentration by using a lipid
  
• Disperse flavour
  
• Savoury dishes use olive or coconut oil
  
• Sweet dishes use honey or syrup

Delay:

• EO's are fragile - volatile oils - can dissipate quickly at high heats
• Add at the end of the cooking process​

---

Essential Oils For Cooking

There are many different essential oils that can be used in the kitchen. For more information about essential oils and which ones are great for cooking, baking or even in drinks, check out the Essential Oil section of the website.

Have a question about essential oils for cooking, or want to know how you can get started and purchase your own set of essential oils? Click on the buttons below:

Speak with a Wellness Advocate

Purchase Essential Oils For Cooking

​Check back soon for free printable recipes that will highlight some of the amazing ways you can use essential oils in your own kitchen & daily life. 
​
References: doterra.com

​**Please note: Essential oils are highly concentrated and as such should be used with great care, particularly with children, pregnant women, or those with medical conditions. The statements and information on this website are not intended to diagnose, cure, or prevent disease. Please view the Disclosure & Privacy Policy page for more information. The links on this page may be embedded with affiliate links for products that www.cookingwithessentialoils.ca may receive commission from.