FAQ

Essential Oils Basics

What are essential oils?

Essential oils are highly concentrated extracts from different plants-based parts that are used for aromatherapy. The various leaves, stems, buds, roots, petals, bark are usually distilled to create these potent oils with a vast range of health and wellness benefits.

What is a carrier oil?

Since essential oils are extremely concentrated and potent, it is not recommended to use them neat. A carrier oil is a base oil or vegetable oil used to dilute essential oils so that we can use them topically and safely on our skin.

How do I dilute essential oils?

Use a carrier oil such Fractionated Coconut, Jojoba, Avocado, Sweet Almond or Grape Seed oils to dilute your essential oils before any skin application. It is always recommended to perform a patch test before wider applications to avoid any allergic reaction, especially if you have sensitive skin. To perform a patch test simply dilute 1 drop of hot oil to 4 drops of a carrier oil and rub it onto your forearm. After several hours, if you do not have any skin irritation, the essential oil is safe to use. For general daily use, it is recommended to use a dilution ratio of 2-3%. Young children and elderly should use a dilution ratio of < 1%. For more information on dilution and safety, please refer to the Khemist Dilution Chart.

How do I store essential oils?

Ensure that the essential oils are properly sealed tightly with the lid to avoid any air or water going into the bottles. Air can oxidize and evaporate the essential oils. Keep the essential oils away for direct sunlight or heat as it can affect the quality of the oils. It’s best to store them in a dark cool place.

Diffusers

What kind of diffuser should I buy?

Choosing the right diffuser for
your home can be challenging with so many options available. There are two types of diffusers that we
offer at Khemist:

Water-based diffusers add moisture to the air, making them particularly beneficial in dry environments. They utilize ultrasonic vibrations to create a fine mist, which helps disperse essential oils evenly. Some models, like Khemist’s Fuji, feature beautiful ambient lighting to enhance your space. Generally, water-based diffusers require low maintenance, with occasional cleaning needed to prevent mold and mineral buildup.

Waterless diffusers are often seen as more convenient due to their easy setup since they don’t require water. However, it’s important to clean the nozzle pipe every two weeks to maintain optimal performance. Because these diffusers do not dilute the oils with water, they deliver a more concentrated scent. It’s advisable to avoid using high-viscosity oils to prevent clogs from oil residue in the nozzle pipe. Compared to water-based diffusers, waterless options may come with fewer features.

Are there specific oils that should be used for waterless diffusers?

For waterless diffusers, we recommend to avoid using essential oils with higher viscosity as the characteristics of these oils are thicker and more sticky. High viscosity essential oils such as Sandalwood, Patchouli, and Vetiver will have a residue that can clog the waterless diffusers over time. If you enjoy diffusing these essential oils, we recommend using a water base diffuser.

How do I care for a diffuser?

Cleaning & Maintenance for Water-Based diffuser

You can clean a water-based diffuser with rubbing alcohol, which effectively
disinfects and removes oil residue. To clean, empty any remaining water and oils, then use a cotton swab or soft cloth dipped in alcohol to wipe the internal surfaces, including the ultrasonic plate. Rinse thoroughly with clean water afterwards.

Cleaning & Maintenance for Waterless Diffuser

Cleaning the nozzle pipe: use general household disinfectant alcohol and pour about 5ml into the essential oil bottle every 2 weeks, install the nozzle and shake it for a few times, install it back in the diffuser base and turn it on to diffuse for 30 minutes.

What is the warranty period for diffusers?

All Khemist diffusers have a one year warranty. We recommend you keep a copy of the receipt.

Safety & Usage

Can I use essential oils if Iam pregnant?

Expectant mothers should exercise caution, especially those with high-risk pregnancies or a history of miscarriage. Essential oils can be absorbed into the body and may reach the fetus. Therefore, it's advisable to avoid aromatherapy during the first trimester until the pregnancy stabilizes, and always consult your healthcare provider before using essential oils.

Inhaling essential oils via a diffuser is generally safer than applying them topically. If your practitioner approves the use of essential oils during pregnancy, be aware that some oils can potentially trigger premature uterine contractions or have other adverse effects. The following essential oils are recommended to be avoided during pregnancy: aniseed, basil, clary sage, clove, cinnamon, fennel, hyssop, juniper berry, oregano, parsley seed or leaf, rosemary, tansy, thyme, and wintergreen.

Do I need to be careful with using essential oils on babies and young children?

Yes, for young children aged 2 to 5 years and for the elderly, a dilution rate of 0.5% is recommended for topical use of essential oils. For children over 5 years old, a 2% dilution rate is considered safe for topical application.

Are the essential oils pet friendly?

Essential oils should never be used topically on pets, and they should never be allowed to ingest them. If you enjoy diffusing essential oils in your home, Lavender, Clary Sage, Roman Chamomile, and Bergamot are generally considered safe options. Always consult your veterinarian or animal practitioner to ensure that the essential oils you use won’t harm your pet.

It's important to monitor your pet's reactions to essential oils. Be alert for signs such as fatigue, weakness, drooling, vomiting, or difficulty breathing. If you notice any of these symptoms, discontinue use immediately and consult your veterinarian.

Can I take essential oils internally?

No, we do not recommend ingesting essential oils, as they are highly concentrated and potent, which can lead to internal damage.

What happens if I have a skin irritation or allergic reaction?

If you experience discomfort, stop using the oil immediately. Avoid using water to try to flush away the essential oil, as this may increase irritation. Instead, use a carrier oil, such as olive oil, to dilute the affected area, and then wash it gently with mild soap and water. We always recommend performing a patch test before applying essential oils to a larger area of the body. If skin irritation or an allergic reaction persists, consult a healthcare practitioner.

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