essential oils

What are essential oils?

Essential oils are volatile substances that are extracted from the flowers, leaves, bark, roots or fruits of plants. They contain the characteristic aromas and ingredients of the respective plant. Essential oils can be obtained by distillation, pressing or solvents.

Essential oils have different properties depending on which plant they contain. They can have an antibacterial, antiviral, anti-inflammatory, pain-relieving or calming effect. They can also strengthen the immune system or improve mood.

How do essential oils affect dogs?

Dogs have a very keen sense of smell and therefore perceive essential oils intensively. The scents can influence the limbic system in the brain, which is responsible for emotions and memories. For example, essential oils can reduce anxiety or stress in dogs or give them more energy.

The ingredients of essential oils can also enter the bloodstream via the skin or mucous membranes and exert their effect there. For example, they can alleviate skin problems or ward off parasites.

What are the benefits of essential oils for dogs?

Essential oils can be a natural alternative to chemical medicines or care products. They can help with various ailments, such as

• Skin irritations
• wounds
• itching
• allergies
• infections
• aches and pains
• Digestive problems
• motion sickness

They can also improve the well-being and behavior of dogs, for example in the case of

• anxiety
• stress
• aggression
• trauma
• depression
• Hyperactivity

What are the disadvantages of essential oils for dogs?

Essential oils are not always safe for dogs. They must be used with caution and expertise. There are some risks and side effects that you should be aware of:

• Overdose: too much of an essential oil can lead to symptoms of poisoning, such as vomiting, diarrhea, tremors, respiratory distress or seizures. You should only ever use a few drops and dilute them with a carrier oil (such as coconut oil). You should also make sure that your dog does not lick or chew the bottle. If you notice signs of an overdose, you should consult a vet immediately.
• Intolerance: Not all dogs tolerate all essential oils equally well. Some may be allergic or sensitive to certain oils. You should therefore always carry out a tolerance test before using a new oil. To do this, put a drop of the diluted oil on a small area of your dog's ear or paw and observe whether he has a reaction. If your dog scratches, licks, howls or feels uncomfortable, you should stop using the oil.
• Toxicity: Some essential oils are toxic to dogs and should never be used. These include, for example:
  • Aniseed
  • camphor
  • cloves
  • juniper
  • birch
  • cinnamon
  • tea tree
  • Wintergreen

These oils can cause liver or kidney damage, respiratory distress or seizures. You should also make sure that your dog does not nibble on plants that contain these oils.

How do you use essential oils for dogs correctly?

If you want to use essential oils for your dog, you should follow a few rules:

• Only buy high-quality and pure essential oils from reputable manufacturers. Avoid perfume oils or synthetic fragrances.
• Always dilute essential oils with a carrier oil (such as coconut oil) at a ratio of about one drop per teaspoon of carrier oil2. Never use undiluted essential oils on your dog's skin.
• Only apply essential oils to healthy skin and avoid open wounds or mucous membranes. Gently massage the diluted oil into your dog's coat or apply it to the affected area with a cotton ball.
• Always let your dog decide for himself whether he likes the scent or not. Hold the bottle under his nose and observe his reaction. If he turns away or walks away, don't force him to do so.
• Only use the essential oils as needed and not permanently. Once or twice a week is usually sufficient.
• Keep the essential oils out of your dog's reach and close them tightly.