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The benefits and dangers of popular essential oils

Essential oils are exploding in popularity. While many people may report experiencing benefits, experts warn there are some dangers associated with certain oils people need to be aware of before purchasing.

Dr. Michael Beuhler, with North Carolina Poison Control, says the types of oils you use and how you use them are critical.

Beuhler says most oils are minimally toxic but poison control has seen reports of consumer experiencing problems with clove oil and penny royal oil. Some oils like wintergreen are extremely dangerous.

RELATED: Parents urged to learn fully about essential oils before using them on their children

“The ingestion of a single teaspoon of this in a child is the equivalent of taking about a hundred aspirin. So that could easily kill a child and it does it quickly too," Beuhler said.

Poison Control says there isn't much independent research out there on essential oils, but it recommends you read findings from the FDA and the National Institute of Health.

SEE THE FULL REPORT ON WSOCTV.COM | SEE THE NUMBER OF POISON CALLS INVOLVING ESSENTIAL OILS FROM NORTHEAST FLORIDA (EXCEL FILE)

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