Essential oils can have health benefits, whether you're using them for a sore throat or an upset stomach. However, you must know which types of essential oils are safe to ingest before mixing one into your tea or placing a few drops on your tongue. Follow the U.S. Food and Drug Administration (FDA) recommendations when it comes to ingesting essential oils.
Peppermint and Spearmint
The essential oils of peppermint and spearmint can safely be ingested. Some prefer to use them as breath fresheners by placing a small amount on the back of the tongue and then rubbing the tongue on the inside of the mouth and teeth. However, these oils can also be used to help an upset stomach. Dropped into a cup of tea after dinner, you can ingest these essential oils to promote better digestion and ward off indigestion. Orange and lemon essential oils can help with your immune system and have antiviral properties. Eucalyptus is often ingested by cold sufferers to clear mucus and congestion. These are all safe essential oils to ingest.
FDA Approved
The difference between oils that are safe to ingest and those that should only be used on the skin or for sensory purposes is the FDA recommendation that comes along with them. All essential oils that are meant for ingesting will have a label that reads "Essential Oil Supplement" and should also give supplemental facts, much like nutritional facts on the side of a food product. If you are considering ingesting an essential oil that does not carry this label, you may want to speak to a doctor or homeopathic health provider before doing so.
Pure Oils
You need to read the labels of products that you are considering ingesting as essential oils. If you've talked to your doctor and know which oils are okay to ingest, make sure that you read the label before you purchase them. There should only be one ingredient listed on the bottle, and that is the essential oil. Perfumes, dyes or any other additives can make the oil unsafe to ingest. Look for the purest form of essential oils for the greatest benefits.