Pure Essential Oils in Canada

The general response is NO – essential oils should not, as a general rule, be used with animals. Certain essential oils can be extremely toxic and irritating to cats, including tea tree, citrus, and eucalyptus oils. Safer options for cats include lavender and frankincense; however, always use caution and consult with an aromatherapist trained in animal health before diffusing around your pet to ensure their safety and comfort.

For dogs, some essential oils, like lavender and chamomile, are generally safe when properly diluted. However, oils such as tea tree and wintergreen should be avoided around dogs. As with cats, always use oils in moderation around pets and consult an aromatherapist trainined in safe animal use for guidance on safe usage.

Yes, essential oils have a shelf life, though it varies by oil type. Most essential oils are effective for 1–3 years if stored in a cool, dark place. Citrus oils may expire more quickly due to their natural compounds or when exposed to heat or sunlight.

Essential oils are extracted using several methods, each suited to different plant types. The most common method, steam distillation, involves passing steam through plant material to release oils into vapor, which is then condensed and separated from water. Expressed oils, mainly for citrus fruits, are created by pressing oils directly from the peel. Solvent extraction is used for delicate plants, where chemical solvents help dissolve the oil compounds, creating highly concentrated absolutes after the solvents are removed.

Essential oils are highly concentrated and should almost always be diluted with carrier oils to avoid skin irritation. Carrier oils, like grape seed, almond, and avocado oil, are gentle, unscented oils that make essential oils safe for topical use. Diluting with a carrier oil helps spread the essential oil’s benefits over a larger area of the skin and supports better absorption without causing adverse reactions.

Not all essential oils are safe for internal use (and some pay cause harm) – best rule do not ingest any essential oils. They should only be taken internally under the guidance of a qualified healthcare practitioner. Essential oils are potent, and some can be toxic or irritating if ingested. For safe use, they should be used in a diffuser, applied externally with carrier oils, or diluted in a lotion or cream or inhaled, which allows you to benefit from their therapeutic properties without risking adverse effects.

What Are the Best Essential Oils for Diffusers?
Lavender, peppermint, and eucalyptus are popular choices for diffusers. Lavender offers calming effects, peppermint is invigorating, and eucalyptus supports respiratory health, making them ideal for various settings. Some oils are thick and dark due to being rich in resins – they may clog some diffusers. Other essential oils may be irritating to inhale and are best not used as a room scent.