Essential oils are volatile liquid natural compounds extracted from aromatic plants.
Are essential oils safe to use?
According to the International Federation of Aromatherapy, direct ingestion of essential oils can cause damage to the mouth and esophagus. However, if essential oils are mixed with fats such as olive oil or milk, they are distributed more evenly and are more diluted, so they do not harm tissues when eaten. In this way, essential oils are safe to use for cooking.
Essential oils are safe for cooking
Amanda Lattin, a therapist and chair of the aromatherapy department at the American College of Healthcare Sciences in Portland, Oregon, says some essential oils to use:
- Lemon essential oil
- Rosemary essential oil
- Menthol
- Lavender essential oil
Essential oils should be avoided when cooking
According to the US Food and Drug Administration (FDA), essential oils to avoid using in cooking are:
- Eucalyptus essential oil
- Sage essential oil
- Wintergreen essential oil
How to use essential oils in cooking
- Add 1 to 2 drops of essential oil to the dish.
- Dilute essential oils in fat.
- Apply according to available formula.
Use essential oils recognized by the FDA as safe for culinary purposes, follow a recipe from a trusted source, and use only one to a few drops.
