CONTRAINDICATIONS AND RESPONSIBLE USE OF PLANTS FOR THE SKIN
Massage of woman in spa salon. Girl on candles background in massage spa salon. Luxary interior in oriental therapy salon. Close up of female massage hands give herbs hot ball therapy.
Though many herbs, essential oils, and carrier oils have few reported side effects, allergies and reactions may occur with anyone, at any time. It is important to ask about allergies (particularly to ragweed and other seasonal allergies) during the client consultation, prior to using or recommending any plants. Be aware that anyone can be allergic to anything at any time, regardless of allergy history or past allergy test results. Patch testing is always a good idea.
Phototoxicity is another legitimate concern. Be careful with herbs in the citrus or mint families, topical application of St. John’s wort, any herbs containing high amounts of vitamins A or C, or furocoumarins during the daytime. Always recommend using sunscreen, free from vitamins A and C, during the day when outdoors.
If taking pharmaceutical medicine, consult with a health professional versed in both herbal and pharmaceutical medicine to check for interactions. Conventional medical doctors and pharmacists often will not have accurate knowledge of the effects of herbs or potential drug interactions. Naturopathic, integrative, and functional medical doctors, as well as Chinese and Ayurvedic medical doctors, are more likely to have had this type of training.
If a client is pregnant, breastfeeding, has an open wound, or has been diagnosed with infection or disease (including acne), it is best to check with a licensed health professional or clinical herbalist before utilizing herbs.
Due to the increased popularity of aromatherapeutic and herbal remedies in general, it is increasingly important to use herbs mindfully and sparingly. Many precious medicinal herbs are now in danger of extinction due to overharvesting without replanting. Always source herbs, or purchase herbal professional products, from companies that harvest their plants ethically and sustainably.
Team Rejuvee