10 Most Common Misconceptions About Essential Oils That Are Circulating on the Internet

As a pharmacist, I encounter a large amount of false, misleading and deceptive information on websites, not only in my field. Each such information poses a greater or lesser risk to the layperson, as many people do not verify the information, often because they have no way to, since the basic prerequisite is to be able to understand it, which in the case of professional information assumes specific knowledge that is acquired through years of study.
No one is born with all the information, but we must gradually learn at least what is necessary for our life, for our profession. If we want to spread information further, we must be able to verify its accuracy. It is not for nothing that there is a saying: Ne supra crepidam sutor iudicaret - Let not the cobbler judge above the sandal. The more famous one is: "Cobbler, hold on to your hoof".

It is extremely important that the information available to the general public is verified and true. However, there is no authority that would oversee such a state of affairs.

Essential oils are very popular. However, there are many misconceptions circulating on the internet about their effects, uses, and absorption into the skin. In this article, I will point out the most common ones and set the record straight.

Before you read about the nonsense claims you can find on the internet, let's explain the basic concepts of skin penetration.

Penetration – entry of a substance, drug into a certain layer of the skin, specifically the uppermost part. Can be accelerated, for example, by occlusion (hydrophobic ointment base, covering the skin with an airtight patch, plastic wrap, etc.).

Permeation – the transfer of a substance from one layer to another, e.g. from the skin to the dermis, or from the dermis to the subcutaneous tissue.

Absorption – entry of a substance into the vascular system or lymph. In order for a substance to reach the vascular bed through the skin, it must be a small molecule, and penetration depends on the partition coefficient – the tendency of the substance to dissolve in different solvents (aqueous = hydrophilic, oily = hydrophobic), on the concentration of the substance, on the pH, but also on the properties of the skin such as its thickness, hydration, hairiness and blood supply. Permeability is then affected, for example, by skin disease or age. If the skin is injured, substances/drugs can more easily reach the bloodstream, where they would not normally be absorbed.

There are several drugs that are absorbed through the skin (or mucous membranes). It depends on the above factors and also on the dosage form: so-called transdermal patches are used and in one case even a gel. These include nicotine, hormonal contraception, hormonal supplementation, drugs that relieve severe pain and others.

1. False: EO absorption depends on the type of carrier oil

"The effectiveness of EO absorption into the skin depends on several factors. One of them is the choice of carrier oil used during application. Some carrier oils, such as avocado oil, are more viscous and can slow down the transport of essential oils into the skin. On the other hand, lighter oils, such as almond or grapeseed, promote faster absorption.

Myth: light oil (e.g. grapeseed) speeds up the absorption of EO, viscous oil (e.g. avocado) slows it down.

Fact: a carrier oil cannot affect absorption , as it does not occur with essential oils (EO). EO does not enter the blood vessels through the skin. Viscosity, adhesion and spreadability are objective, but also subjective. The more viscous the oil, ointment, cream, the longer it takes to spread, but it does not affect absorption in any way.

2. False: warm oil is absorbed better than cold oil

Warmer oils are more easily absorbed into the skin. This means that during a massage or wrap therapy where the skin is heated, absorption will occur better and faster. This is one of the reasons why I massage with warmed oil and use a heating blanket.

Myth: Warmed oil penetrates the skin better during massage.

Fact: neither warm nor cold oil is ABSORBED into the skin. Warm oil is certainly more pleasant on the skin, the higher temperature increases blood circulation and we may subjectively feel that it is absorbed into the skin better. However, it remains on its surface.

3. False: the volatility of EO affects its absorption

The absorption of EO into the skin is also dependent on volatility of essential oils .

Myth: More volatile EOs are absorbed faster, e.g. citrus oils.

Fact: Volatility DOES NOT AFFECT EO absorption. EOs are NOT absorbed into the skin or into the blood vessels. Volatility is the ability of substances to transition from a liquid to a gaseous state, it depends on the chemical structure (on the bonds in the molecules, molecular weight: the stronger the bonds and the larger the molecules, the lower the volatility, and on the temperature: lower temperature = lower volatility).
Substances with small molecules and weak intermolecular bonds are more volatile at higher temperatures and lower pressures.

4. False: EOs enter the bloodstream transdermally

The more volatile EO components pass through the skin more easily than those with higher molecular weights, which are absorbed more slowly. This means that if you need to EO quickly entered the bloodstream, you can use, for example, citrus fruit oils, which accelerate this process. "

Myth: the type of EO determines whether it enters the bloodstream.

Fact : the penetration of substances through the skin does not depend on volatility, but on the size of the molecule, the partition coefficient and other conditions (see above: absorption).

It is complete NONSENSE to say that the type of EO matters if it is to be absorbed into the bloodstream. EOs are NOT absorbed into the bloodstream through the skin (transdermally). So it doesn't matter whether you choose citrus, conifer or flower oil.

5. False: menthol in oil: dissolution and temperature

Mix the hemp oil and menthol in a heat-resistant container. Place the container in a water bath and heat slowly.

Menthol with will begin Dissolve at a temperature of approximately 42 °C , stir until all the menthol in the oil is completely dissolved, try not to exceed the temperature of 45 °C to prevent the loss of valuable substances from the oil.

False: Menthol must be dissolved at 42–45 °C.

Fact : menthol itself melts at 34°C. It dissolves “easily” in fatty oils, which means: 1 g of menthol dissolves in 1–10 g of fatty oil at room temperature, i.e. 15–25°C.

6. False: EO dilution – counting by drops

Dosage for 50 ml of vegetable oil:

• For an adult without health problems - 3% dilution, i.e. max. 45 drops essential oil
• During pregnancy and for children from 6 years of age - 1% dilution, i.e. max. 15 drops essential oil
• For children under 6 years old - 0.5% dilution, i.e. max. 7 drops essential oil

False: 3% dilution = 45 drops EO / 50 ml

Fact: 1 drop of essential oil does not weigh the same as water (1 drop = 0.05 g, i.e. 1 ml/1 g of water = 20 drops). EOs are lighter. 3% dilution and 45 drops actually usually means about 1.7% dilution.

7. False: lavender oil lowers blood pressure and heals "heart disease"

Lavender essential oil

Lowers blood pressure and heals the heart

Natural lavender essential oil effectively It lowers blood pressure. If you have low blood pressure, you should avoid it.

Beneficial for the skin, can also be used undiluted

Lavender cares for the skin, reduces the signs of aging and improves its overall condition. It is used mainly by those who have sensitive skin prone to eczema and dermatitis – it accelerates the healing of canker sores, acne, herpes and various types of eczema, including blisters. The most suitable method of use in these cases is to apply it. Importantly, this oil also has its place in the treatment of burns. Lavender essential oil is one of the two oils (apart from Tea tree ), which can be used in small amounts directly on the skin , so you don't have to dilute it.

False: lavender treats heart problems and lowers blood pressure

Fact: see answer in point 10.

False: EO accelerates the healing of eczema and blisters, and is especially suitable for sensitive skin.

Fact: EOs are concentrated substances that, in undiluted form, can irritate the skin or cause an allergic reaction. When exposed to UV radiation, they can cause a phototoxic reaction, see our article: Essential oils

People with skin conditions should AVOID essential oils, especially in diluted form. Dermatitis is generally an inflammatory skin condition, also called eczema. Eczema and dermatitis are not two different skin conditions, but one, and canker sores, acne, and cold sores are definitely not dermatitis.

8. False: solubol is a carrier fat oil

Recommended dilution of essential oils for an adult:

• Full body massage:
  Unless otherwise stated, a 3% dilution concentration is generally recommended for non-irritating, non-toxic essential oils.
  Always dilute the essential oil in a carrier fat base (vegetable oil, vegetable butter, solubol).

False: Solubol is a fat base.

Fact: Solubol is not a "carrier fat base", but a solubilizer for a hydrophilic environment (miscible with water, the opposite of hydrophobic - fat base).

9. False: 1 ml = 25 drops of EO

Generally, for well-liquid oils, we calculate 1 ml = 25 drops (for viscous oils, 1 ml = 20 drops)

• children 6-15 years old – 1.5% (corresponds to 18-19 drops in 50 ml)
• children over 15 years of age and adults 3% (corresponds to 37-38 drops in 50 ml)
• Local massage, compress:
  For adults, do not exceed 5% dilution on local affected areas, use essential oil for topical treatment of acute problems and do not use long-term.
  For children aged 6 and over, you can use a 2.5% dilution to massage the soles of the feet.
• Cladding:
  about 5 drops in a cup of water. cloth or handkerchief and apply to the affected area.
• Baths:
  • Mix the essential oil with a carrier oil (it can be yogurt, honey, heavy cream, shower or bath oil). Add 8-15 drops to a full bath, 5-8 drops to a partial bath. If you use essential oils undiluted, they will float on the surface and can irritate the skin. The bath should be slightly warmer than body temperature, about 38-40°C.
  • Skin care:
  • After applying to the skin, do not expose yourself to the sun or solarium for 6-12 hours.

False: uniform density always applies.

Fact: a drop of essential oil weighs about 0.02 to 0.028 g (i.e. about 50 and 35 drops per 1 ml). Of course, it depends on the size of the dropper and the viscosity of the essential oil, regular EOs have the weight mentioned above, conifer and wood oils can weigh up to 0.04 g, i.e. 25 drops in 1 ml.

10. False: Essential oils have healing properties claimed on the internet

Effects of eucalyptus oil

Eucalyptus essential oil offers us many benefits that we can appreciate in everyday products. And then others will help us in emergency situations - for example, when we are attacked by an illness.

It is generally stated that it has the following effects: analgesic, antibacterial, antiseptic, antiviral, deodorizing, diuretic, antispasmodic, antirheumatic, anti-inflammatory, astringent and stimulating . It also helps with by healing scars, loosening mucus and coughing up mucus.

False: You’ll often find claims online that essential oils have analgesic, antiviral, antibacterial, anti-inflammatory, antirheumatic, diuretic, or even healing effects on organs and body systems. Specific therapeutic benefits are also claimed—for example, that lavender oil “heals the heart,” eucalyptus “kills viruses,” or that certain oils “detoxify the body.”

Fact: eucalyptus oil certainly does not have antiviral effects. How could the oil affect a virus, despite all efforts? The author of the article had in mind an "antiviral" effect. Other effects can be stated ONLY FOR MEDICINAL PRODUCTS/Drugs for which they have been proven by clinical studies. Moreover, inhalation cannot achieve antirheumatic, diuretic, anti-inflammatory and other effects. Internally, essential oils and their components are used, e.g. for supportive treatment of urinary stones, in the form of a medicinal product). Externally, they are used as part of medicinal products for colds, or as a taste and smell corrector to mask the unpleasant taste or smell of the medicine.

Claims about the effects of essential oils that are not part of medicines and do not have approved therapeutic indications are deceptive, misleading and untrue, as they are not supported by clinical studies and are not approved by the relevant authorities (e.g. EMA - European Medicines Agency, FDA, from the English Food and Drug Administration - Office for the Control of Food and Drugs, or SÚKL - State Institute for the Control of Drugs).

The effects of EOs are local when applied in a so-called carrier oil to the skin, e.g. by massage, or indirectly inhaled (from water vapor, through an aroma lamp or aroma diffuser). For a systemic effect, they must be absorbed into the bloodstream and must be applied orally (in the form of drops, capsules, tablets), not by rubbing them onto the skin.

A small addition at the end:

Do not use essential oils on allergic or hypersensitive skin. If skin reactions occur, wash the area with a good quality soap and treat with vegetable oil.

Fact: Treat the site of a possible allergic reaction, if possible, with a hydrophilic cream, which has mild but anti-itching effects. Depending on the extent and intensity, consult a dermatologist, or buy antihistamines from a pharmacy to reduce allergic reactions.

Falsehood about the composition of EO – incorrect chemical names

Composition of eucalyptus oil

One of the most important ingredients is eucalyptol , which is used in a number of products that we can get in pharmacies or drugstores. It also contains the well-known limonene, globulol, a-pyrene, b-pyrene...

False: Eucalyptus oil contains "pyrene".

Fact: I'm a pharmacist and I admit that I don't know exactly what "regular pharmacy" means, maybe the same as "regular powder", "regular detergent", etc., as we hear in advertisements.

Eucalyptus essential oil contains, among other things, α-pinene and β-pinene, not pyrene/pyrene. Pyrene is a polycyclic aromatic hydrocarbon produced by the incomplete combustion of organic substances. Where can it be found? In exhaust fumes, in grilled food, or in smoke from heating.

I am attaching the composition of eucalyptus essential oil, see https://www.sciencedirect.com/science/article/pii/S2468227621000624

The major identified compounds in the leaf essential oil of E. maculata were Eucalyptol (54.29%), p -cymene (10.10%), α -pinene (7.78%), β-myrcene (7.78%), γ-terpinene (1.73%) and citronellal (1.62%); while Eucalyptol (51.62%), α-pinene (23.62%), p-cymene (10%), β-myrcene (8.74%), Terpinen-4-ol (2.74%) and γ-terpinene (2.59%) were the major compounds for E. globulus .

The Eucalyptus oil is a complex mixture of a variety of monoterpenes and sesquiterpenes , and aromatic phenols, oxides, ethers, alcohols, esters, aldehydes and ketones such as 1,8-cineole (Eucalyptol), citronellal , citronellol , citronellyl acetate, p -cymene, eucamalol, limonene , linalool , α-pinene, γ-terpinene, α-terpineol and aromadendrene .

See our article: Eucalyptus essential oil: effects, uses and tips for homemade recipes

What is a source plant? Nonsense!

"Substances contained in source plants"

As it is in reality: there is no "source plant". Sources include, for example, sources of information, sources of heat, etc. Experts use the term: mother plant.

Essential oils have their place in aromatherapy and skin care, but it is important to use them correctly. Don't be fooled by misinformation, misleading information and untruths and use EO wisely, considering the effects and risks. If you are unsure about anything, ask experts, especially the professional staff at the pharmacy.

For our own EOs, By Nefertitis, you will find articles about individual plants, including their uses, but also age restrictions and warnings about possible side effects and how to prevent them. If you have children, also read our articleAromatherapy from baby to schoolchild: a guide for parents 

On the Nefertitis website we have a special category of articles for you : Advice from a Pharmacy Magistrate

Don't be afraid to ask, I'll be happy to answer your questions.

I wrote the article for you on July 14, 2025. Mgr. Radka Příkopová Brichcínová

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