Essential Oils and Lung Claims: Known and Risky

Essential oils are concentrated plant extracts made by steam or pressing. Eucalyptus, peppermint, lavender, tea tree and lemon are common. They are strong, and a drop holds a lot of plant material, which is why labels advise dilution and caution. Quality varies between brands, and a label that says pure or therapeutic grade is a marketing phrase, not a standard that a regulator checks.

Strong plant extracts carry real risks, and the most common are easy to overlook in a home with children, pets or asthma.

• Strong smells can trigger cough, wheeze and asthma attacks.
• Some oils, such as eucalyptus and peppermint, can cause breathing trouble in young children if used near the face.
• Swallowing even a small amount of some oils can poison children and pets.
• Skin contact can cause rashes and burns when oils are not diluted.
• Diffusers raise indoor particle and vapour levels.

Use it in small amounts, in a ventilated space, for short periods. Choose a single oil rather than a blend, and stop if anyone coughs or feels tight. Do not use around infants. Keep scent away from people with asthma.

Look for the Latin name of the plant, the country of origin, a batch number and safety warnings. Avoid products that promise to treat disease. Check for age limits and pregnancy cautions. If the label has none, choose another product, since a seller that does not warn you has not thought about your safety.