Eucalyptus oil is a popular essential oil used in natural medicine to treat illnesses such as colds, coughs, flu, and bronchitis. (1) It is also found in over-the-counter medications such as mosquito repellents. But is eucalyptus oil safe for babies to treat and manage the above concerns? The amount of oil you use will depend on your child’s age, your goals, and how you use it.
Need to consult Natural remediesIAn alternative medicine approach that utilizes natural products and ancient practices to treat illnesses. To reduce the risk of side effects due to overuse, consult a specialist or herbalist. However, it is recommended not to use it on children under the age of 6 (2). So, read on to learn more about eucalyptus oil, its safety for babies, and why you should not use this oil on your baby.
Eucalyptus oil and its components
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Eucalyptus oil is extracted from the leaves of the eucalyptus tree. This oil contains over 100 different compounds. Crude single-distilled eucalyptus oil may contain varying amounts of more compounds than fractionated double-distilled eucalyptus oil.For example, Eucalyptus globulus oil contains approximately 60% cineole and 40% other compounds. After fractionation, the oil contains 80% cineole and 20% other compounds (3).
General oil specifications and limitations are as follows:
Specification BP: Eucalyptus oil
| member | Scope – Restrictions |
|---|---|
| a (alpha) – pinene | Trace down to 9% |
| b (beta) – pinene | Less than 1.5% |
| α-Phellandrene | Less than 1.5% |
| d (Delta) – Limonene | Trace down to 12% |
| 1,8-Cineole | At least 70% |
| camphor | Less than 0.1% |
| Sabinen | Less than 0.3% |
This medicinal oil is a common home remedy for treating respiratory and bronchial disorders. The healing vapors from the leaves of this native Australian plant have been used for many years to relieve respiratory ailments. The oil acts primarily as a cooling agent. When applied topically, eucalyptus oil improves blood flow and also has antiseptic properties. (4) Its expectorant properties make it a great natural remedy for coughs and stuffy chests. It also has antibacterial, antibacterial, and anti-inflammatory properties. In addition, eucalyptus oil’s fresh, cooling scent has a calming, relaxing effect on the body and mind, helping you relax and sleep better. It is commonly used in massages and aromatherapy in holistic wellness centers.
Why shouldn’t you use eucalyptus oil on your baby?
With so many health benefits, you may wonder why eucalyptus oil isn’t safe for babies.Read the following reasons to clear your doubts (5):
- Essential oils such as eucalyptus oil are rich in 1,8-cineole, which can cause problems related to the central nervous system and respiratory system in young children.
- The amount of 1,8-cineole contained in eucalyptus oil is ChemotypeIA chemically unique feature in a plant or microorganism. Of the genus Eucalyptus.
- Some eucalyptus seeds may not contain much 1,8-cineole, but they do contain other compounds that may be of concern to children.
- This oil is very potent and can cause burning and irritation, potentially damaging to the delicate skin of babies and young children.
- If ingested, eucalyptus oil can cause serious side effects in infants, including diarrhea, abdominal pain, vomiting, and even wheezing and difficulty breathing.
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- Eucalyptus oil, when applied topically or ingested, can cause serious problems, including seizures, and in extreme cases: comaIA condition in which a person loses consciousness and cannot be woken up. (6)
- For children under 10, do not apply oil near or on the face, especially around the mouth and nose.
- Keep eucalyptus essential oil out of reach of children under 2 years of age..
“The reality is that most of the time, there are more people who are not aware of the dangers of scuba diving than those who are not,” said Dr. Kelly Johnson Arbour, a Virginia-based triple board certified emergency medicine, medical toxicology and undersea and hyperbaric medicine physician. “Eucalyptus oil is highly toxic and should be used with caution around infants. Inhalation of eucalyptus oil can cause severe reactions, including seizures. Some people have suffered headaches and cerebral hemorrhages after using eucalyptus oil vapors to relieve headaches.” Sinus congestion.ISymptoms caused by anything that irritates or inflames the nasal tissues. “
Things to considerPoints to remember
- If your baby or young child has trouble breathing, take them to medical help right away. Your baby needs prompt medical attention, not home remedies.
- Be careful not to let your children ingest the oils, and even more so if you have a family history of asthma, as the oils can trigger asthma attacks in your child.
Quick Tips
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Eucalyptus oil is medicinal and just as effective as prescription and over-the-counter medications, but it should not be used on infants. Relieving congestion by applying the oil directly to the chest or inhaling it through a vaporizer or diffuser is only effective for adults, not infants.
Parents may think that small or diluted amounts of this medicinal oil will not harm their baby, but it is possible for the oil to be ingested or inhaled (using a vaporizer or humidifier) in sufficient quantity to cause a reaction.
Remember: Just because something is called “natural” doesn’t mean it’s automatically safe or beneficial for children.
1. Can I add eucalyptus oil to my baby’s bath?
No. Adding eucalyptus oil to your baby’s bath water could lead to them accidentally swallowing the bath water or causing further skin irritation.
2. Can eucalyptus oil help lighten my baby’s skin?
Anecdotally, eucalyptus oil has been believed to lighten the skin. However, there is no medical research to support this idea, and applying eucalyptus oil directly on your baby’s skin may irritate it. Therefore, it is best not to use eucalyptus oil on your baby’s body to lighten their skin.
3. Is eucalyptus oil safe to use on premature babies?
Just as it is not safe for infants, it is also not suitable for premature babies, whose developing respiratory systems and sensitive skin may not tolerate essential oils as well.
Eucalyptus oil is a time-honored remedy for respiratory health issues. It is also used in massage and aromatherapy for adults due to its calming and soothing properties. However, using eucalyptus oil on babies may not be safe as it can cause respiratory and central nervous system problems. Additionally, it can cause a burning sensation when applied to the skin and can cause diarrhea, wheezing, and difficulty breathing if ingested. SeizuresISudden, uncontrollable electrical activity occurs in the brain. So, although this oil has great medicinal properties, it should not be used on babies, even in small amounts. If your baby develops respiratory problems, cough or cold, it is best to ask your doctor to recommend the most effective natural remedies.
Infographic: The harmful effects of eucalyptus oil on babies
Since it’s a natural oil, it must be safe for babies, right? Unfortunately, that’s not always the case. A great example is eucalyptus oil. Although eucalyptus oil is known for its therapeutic properties, it should not be used on babies. Learn how this oil can do more harm than good for your baby.
Illustration: Momjunction Design Team
Key Takeaways
- Eucalyptus oil has antiseptic and expectorant properties and is often used to treat respiratory ailments.
- This oil is highly toxic to infants and can harm their central nervous system and skin.
- Ingesting eucalyptus oil can cause breathing difficulties, seizures, and coma.
- Keep this oil out of reach of children under 2 years of age and do not use on children under 10 years of age.
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