Many people use essential oils as a natural way to promote emotional well-being, but if you aren't careful, these "natural" remedies can pose serious dangers to your children.
According to researchers at the Tennessee Poison Control Center, the number of children ingesting essential oils has increased significantly. According to the study done at Vanderbilt University, exposure to essential oils has doubled over the last four years and 80 percent of those cases involve children. Most children drank the oil, but some became sick after putting too much oil on their skin.
The oils are commonly used as aromatic and homeopathic remedies. They have a refreshing smell, but if ingested can cause throat irritation, nausea, and vomiting. It only takes as little as half a teaspoonful to cause pneumonia if it gets into the lungs.
Experts suggest keeping the oils locked up, out of sight, and out of the reach of children.
If your child does ingest essential oils call the Poison Control Center at the University of Kansas hospital, toll free, 1-800-222-1222.
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