Eucalyptus Leaf Oil Dangers to Epileptics
Some essential oils contain components that may trigger seizures. Research varies on whether eucalyptus leaf oil is an essential oil that causes seizures in people with epilepsy. Eucalyptus leaf oil comes in several varieties and is used for several purposes.
Types of Eucalyptus Leaf Oil
Eucalyptus oil comes in many varieties; for example, Eucalyptus citriodora, Eucalyptus globules, Eucalyptus radiata and Eucalyptus dives. Each type of oil has its own specific effects, but eucalyptus is generally known for its antiseptic properties and beneficial effects on the respiratory system.
Uses of Eucalyptus Oil
Because eucalyptus leaf essential oil has antiseptic properties, it is commonly used in products such as aftershaves, colognes, mouthwashes, and household cleaners. It's also an ingredient in Vicks VapoRub.
Should Epileptics Avoid Eucalyptus?
None of six aromatherapy and essential oil reference books consulted suggested that eucalyptus leaf oil presents dangers to epileptics. However, author P. R. Burkhard et al., in the study "Plant-Induced Seizures: Reappearance of an Old Problem," published in 1999 in the Journal of Neurology, includes eucalyptus as an oil for epileptics to avoid.
A report at Medline Plus indicates that seizures are a side effect of eucalyptus oil only if the oil is taken orally.
Oils for Epileptics to Avoid
Because of the lack of research on the effects of essential oils, sources differ as to which oils epileptics should avoid.
Burkhard et al. writes that, in addition to eucalyptus, 10 other plants are powerful convulsants: fennel, hyssop, pennyroyal, rosemary, sage, savin, tansy, thuja, turpentine, and wormwood. This effect is due to their content of highly reactive monoterpene ketones, such as camphor, pinocamphone, thujone, cineole, pulegone, sabinylacetate, and fenchone.
In the book "Advanced Aromatherapy," Kurt Schnaubelt, Ph.D, recommends that epileptics avoid anise, fennel, hyssop, nutmeg, parsley, and sage essential oils. In the book "Aromatherapy for Dummies," Kathi Keville recommends avoiding hyssop, lavandin, rosemary, sage, spike lavender, and thuja.
More Cautions About Eucalyptus
Do not use eucalyptus during an asthma attack.
Some people are sensitive to the smell and it causes their eyes to water.
Anyone with a serious medical condition is advised to work with a professional healthcare provider.
Tags: essential oils, antiseptic properties, Epileptics Avoid, epileptics avoid, Eucalyptus Leaf