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Is inhaling small oil diffusers safer than vaping?

Some doctors say its a healthy alternative
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wptv-essential-oil-diffuser.jpg
Posted at 4:45 AM, Apr 30, 2019
and last updated 2019-04-30 06:38:48-04

JUPITER, Fla. — The argument regarding the use of e-cigarettes and vaping, and if they are safe, seems to be an ongoing issue.

Now, some doctors, including a local holistic physician, are pointing to essential oil diffusers as a replacement for some patients. It looks like a tiny e-cigarette.

MORE: Study: Vaping could increase your risk of heart attack | Bill would hike smoking, vaping age from 18 to 21 in Florida | Why vaping is so dangerous for teens | Gov. Desantis signs workplace vaping ban

Caroline Melear, a 28-year-old yoga instructor, inhales essential oil diffusers.

"It makes you feel a little more alive," said Melear. "It’s definitely different than a vape pens. There is no tobacco no harmful products at all. It’s a health product."

For her, this is about healthy living.

"As opposed to having a cup of coffee to wake yourself up or a glass of wine to wind down at night, we have these alternative options that are healthier," said Melear.

Dr. Ken Grey, a holistic physician in Jupiter, recommends essential oil diffusers.

"The key to all of this is not the vaping mechanism," said Grey. "It’s being aware of what you’re putting in your body, what’s inside that mechanism."

Grey said you should carefully consider what you're smoking or vaping.

"I feel comfortable recommending this as an alternative to my patients," said Grey. "We always have to ask ourselves what’s in something. What’s the long term effect of anything we can’t really understand on our bodies. And if we really aren’t sure, we really shouldn’t use it."

"It’s certainly becoming more mainstream," said Melear.