Avoid essential oils for babies as they are toxic for young ones

Essential oils are an increasingly popular way to relieve discomfort from colds and coughs, but they can be potentially poisonous for small children. — dpa

Many people turn to essential oils to relieve common cold symptoms.

Doctors warn, however, that they’re not suitable for young children, who are much more sensitive to them than adults are.

Cold remedies with a high concentration of essential oils such as camphor, eucalyptus and menthol shouldn’t be given to babies and young children under two years of age, says paediatrician Dr Ulrich Fegeler.

This applies to sprays, as well as diffusers, embrocations, bathing agents and inhalants.

Just a few drops that accidentally get into the nose and throat region of a baby or young child can cause laryngeal spasms, resulting in difficulty breathing, warns the member of the Cologne-based Professional Association of Paediatricians (BVKJ) in Germany.

As ingredients of ointments or inhalation solutions, the oils can cause skin and mouth redness, abdominal pain, nausea and vomiting, fatigue, restlessness, trembling, and even movement disorders.

It’s especially dangerous if the little ones get their hands on an essential oil in its pure, concentrated form and swallow some.

They can poison themselves and damage their central nervous system and kidneys.

Essential oils should therefore be securely stored well out of their reach.

Camphor, eucalyptus and peppermint oil, for example, are highly toxic, notes Dr Fegeler.

If your young child has swallowed some pure essential oil, you should immediately call your local emergency number for instructions on possible first aid measures. – dpa