What crucial safety instruction must be followed when applying thyme preparations to the skin?
Answer
Never use undiluted essential oil, as it can cause significant irritation.
When utilizing thyme's natural antimicrobial properties externally, safety concerning concentration is paramount, especially regarding the essential oil. The essential oil is extremely potent due to its concentration of phenols. Applying this substance neat, or undiluted, directly onto the skin is strongly discouraged because it carries a significant risk of causing irritation or sensitization reactions. Therefore, topical applications must involve either a well-strained, cooled infusion or an oil that has been specifically prepared using a carrier oil to properly dilute the active components, ensuring the application is safe for skin contact.
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