You may have heard this: “avoid using PEPPERMINT or EUCALYPTUS with young children” when others have discussed Essential Oils. However, with proper usage and dilution, everyday use of these two Essential Oils is the safe and healthful choice that we would hope it would be for our children.
PEPPERMINT’S main constituent is MENTHOL, which can cause mild irritation on sensitive skin and should be diluted. Since Menthol is such a strong aroma, consider avoiding use near the face and eyes.
Peppermint is safe to diffuse around young kids. Using the ideal amounts we discussed earlier, menthol-containing Essential Oils have an excellent safety profile. If you choose to ignore the guidelines, massive amounts of Peppermint can have adverse affects and possible toxicity.
EUCALYPTUS’S main constituent is 1,8 Cineole. It can be applied topically and used aromatically, but is one of the few Essential Oils not recommended for internal use. With children (or those with sensitive skin) moderate to heavy dilution is recommended.
If you review the scientific literature, you’ll notice that the reports of serious adverse reactions associated with Eucalyptus have always appeared when extremely large amounts (greater than 5 ml) of the Essential Oil had been taken internally or placed directly into the nose. This would be difficult to do as it would not have a pleasant flavor.
These amounts are far beyond the normal usage guidelines; still, EUCALYPTUS should be used CAUTIOUSLY with younger children.
These two Essential Oils are safe for children if used within the guidelines, but here are some tips to implement so that everyone can enjoy the benefits they provide:
• Store Essential Oils out of the reach of little children to prevent accidental ingestion.
• Teach your children to ask for help when applying, and help your older children stay within guidelines.
• Keep ideal amount guidelines in mind.
• Use heavier dilution for younger children and those with sensitive skin.
If you have small fingers attached to little ones with exploring minds, consider using our child proof caps. These are a great option for keeping them safe. They come in a pack of 10 and fit both 5 ml and 15 ml bottles.
QUESTION – DO YOU HAVE SMALL CHILDREN IN YOUR HOME THAT ENJOY THE BENEFITS OF ESSENTIAL OILS?