The Dangers of Ingesting Standard Thieves Essential Oil
Many consumers are unaware that essential oils are not meant for casual internal use. The notion that "natural" equals "safe" is a dangerous misconception when it comes to these potent plant extracts. A standard bottle of Thieves essential oil contains highly concentrated, undiluted compounds, and its ingestion can lead to serious health complications.
Why You Should Never Drink Regular Thieves Oil
Essential oils, including the standard Thieves blend, are not water-soluble. This means that adding drops to a glass of water, as some marketing materials might suggest for other products, does not effectively dilute the oil. Instead, the concentrated oil molecules will float on the surface and cling to mucous membranes as you swallow.
This can cause immediate and severe irritation or burns to the mouth, throat, esophagus, and stomach lining. The component oils in the Thieves blend, such as clove, cinnamon, and eucalyptus, are known irritants. Beyond the initial burning sensation, the high concentration can lead to serious systemic toxicity as the body's internal organs, such as the liver and kidneys, struggle to process the powerful chemicals. The consequences can include seizures, central nervous system depression, and liver damage.
Understanding the Difference: Thieves vs. Thieves Vitality
One of the main sources of confusion stems from product lines offered by some manufacturers, which include both standard essential oil blends and specially labeled dietary versions.
Comparison of Thieves Blends
| Feature | Standard Thieves Essential Oil | Thieves Vitality Essential Oil |
|---|---|---|
| Labeling | Labeled for topical and aromatic use only. | Labeled for dietary use and food flavoring. |
| Intended Use | Diffusing, topical application (with carrier oil), and cleaning. | Flavoring food and beverages, or taking in a veggie capsule. |
| Safety for Ingestion | NEVER safe to drink or ingest. Can cause serious internal harm. | Considered safe for consumption in specific, diluted amounts, as directed by the manufacturer. |
| Regulatory Status | Not regulated by the FDA for ingestion purposes. | Not necessarily FDA-tested or regulated as a medicine. |
| Components | Same blend of clove, lemon, cinnamon, eucalyptus, and rosemary. | Same blend, but specifically designated for internal use applications. |
It is critical to read product labels carefully and understand that the designation for internal use does not mean casual ingestion is safe. Even with a product like Thieves Vitality, the manufacturer's instructions specify diluting one drop in four drops of a carrier oil before taking it in a capsule. Dipping a toothpick in the oil to transfer the flavor is another recommended method for cooking.
What to Do in Case of Accidental Ingestion
Accidental ingestion of any essential oil, especially a concentrated, undiluted blend, should be treated as a medical emergency. The severity of symptoms can vary based on the amount ingested and the individual, but swift action is crucial.
Steps to Take:
- Do not induce vomiting. This can increase the risk of the oil being aspirated into the lungs, causing further damage.
- Call Poison Control immediately. The national toll-free number in the US is 1-800-222-1222. Be prepared to provide details on the product and the amount ingested.
- Seek immediate medical attention. If the person is experiencing severe symptoms such as difficulty breathing, seizures, loss of consciousness, or severe vomiting, call emergency services.
- Have the bottle ready. When you call for help, having the oil bottle on hand allows you to provide the specific ingredients to the medical professional.
The Risks for Vulnerable Populations
Certain individuals are at an even higher risk for adverse effects from essential oil ingestion. Children, pregnant or nursing women, and individuals with pre-existing medical conditions should exercise extreme caution.
- Children: A child's smaller body size and developing organs make them more susceptible to toxicity. Even small amounts of oil can cause severe poisoning. Always keep essential oils out of reach of children and pets.
- Pregnancy and Nursing: Many essential oils are not proven safe for pregnant or breastfeeding women. Some, like clary sage, can even be contraindicated during pregnancy. Consult a healthcare professional before using any essential oil during these periods.
- Underlying Conditions and Medications: The active chemical compounds in essential oils can interfere with certain medications or exacerbate existing health problems. This is especially true for those with conditions affecting the liver, kidneys, or those on blood thinners.
How to Use Essential Oils Safely Instead of Drinking Them
Instead of risky ingestion, there are safe and effective ways to use essential oils for their aromatic and topical benefits.
Safe alternatives include:
- Diffusion: Using a proper essential oil diffuser disperses the oil's aroma into the air, providing a pleasant scent and atmospheric benefits.
- Topical Application: Diluting essential oils with a carrier oil, such as coconut or jojoba oil, makes them safe for application to the skin. Always perform a patch test first to check for skin sensitivity.
- Household Cleaning: The antimicrobial properties of Thieves make it a popular ingredient in homemade cleaning solutions, providing a safe, natural alternative to harsh chemicals.
Conclusion: Prioritize Safety Over Anecdote
To definitively answer the question, "is Thieves safe to drink?"—the answer is no for standard blends and should be treated with extreme caution for food-grade versions. Essential oils are powerful, concentrated substances that can be harmful if misused. The confusion between topical/aromatic oils and those deemed safe for dietary use (like Thieves Vitality) highlights the importance of reading labels and understanding the risks associated with ingestion. Always consult with a qualified healthcare professional or a certified aromatherapist before using essential oils for internal purposes, especially if you have pre-existing health conditions or are taking medication. Your health is not worth the risk of casual or unsupervised ingestion.
