Which essential oils increase brain excitability and should be avoided by people with epilepsy?

Which essential oils increase brain excitability and should be avoided by people with epilepsy?

• A. Sweet fennel and rosemary oils
• B. Lavender and chamomile oils
• C. Peppermint oil
• D. Orange oil

Answer: (A)

Some essential oils can raise brain excitability in susceptible individuals, which is a concern for epilepsy. Sweet fennel oil contains estragole, a constituent that can increase neuronal activity and potentially trigger seizures in some people. Rosemary oil has camphor and other terpenes that can lower the seizure threshold at certain doses, especially when used undiluted or in high amounts. Because of these pro-convulsant properties, using these two oils is generally advised to be avoided by people with epilepsy. Other commonly used essential oils tend to be calming or milder in their neural effects, though individual responses vary, so it’s still wise to use low dilutions and monitor how you feel. Always err on the side of caution and consult with a healthcare professional if epilepsy is a concern.

Some essential oils can raise brain excitability in susceptible individuals, which is a concern for epilepsy. Sweet fennel oil contains estragole, a constituent that can increase neuronal activity and potentially trigger seizures in some people. Rosemary oil has camphor and other terpenes that can lower the seizure threshold at certain doses, especially when used undiluted or in high amounts. Because of these pro-convulsant properties, using these two oils is generally advised to be avoided by people with epilepsy.

Other commonly used essential oils tend to be calming or milder in their neural effects, though individual responses vary, so it’s still wise to use low dilutions and monitor how you feel. Always err on the side of caution and consult with a healthcare professional if epilepsy is a concern.