What is sensitization?
First of all it is not referring to those with “sensitive skin”, sensitive “temperaments”, or sensitive people in general. Separate from irritation, sensitization is a potentially serious immune system response to foreign molecules which can provoke a response (we call them haptens), such as pollen, dust or certain essential oil components like terpene hydroperoxides and sesquiterpene lactones. Reactions can range from a small rash to acute respiratory distress and (in extreme cases) death by anaphylactic shock in certain highly susceptible individuals. Some oils (such as Costus oil: Saussurea lappa) are KNOWN sensitizers and are not to be used on the skin –period – due to risking injury to themselves and others. Others (pine oils, citrus oils, linalool-containing oils) may develop sensitizing components on aging. If anyone knowingly uses sensitizing oils for Aromatherapy skin blends, one is practicing unethically and risks injury to themselves and others, not to mention lawsuits for i
