Is lemongrass safe around babies?

Is Lemongrass Safe Around Babies?
Lemongrass (Cymbopogon citratus) is a popular herb known for its culinary uses and potential health benefits. However, when it comes to its safety around infants and young children, many parents and caregivers express concerns. This article aims to unpack the safety of lemongrass in the presence of babies, considering both its uses and potential risks.
Culinary Use and Safety
Lemongrass is frequently used in Asian cuisine, imparting a citrusy flavor to dishes such as soups, curries, and teas. When used in cooking, lemongrass is generally considered safe for consumption, even for babies over six months old, as pureed or cooked ingredients. However, it is essential to introduce any new food gradually and monitor for allergic reactions, which can occur with any new food item.
Essential Oils and Aromatherapy
While culinary use of lemongrass is typically safe, the situation changes with lemongrass essential oils. These concentrated extracts are often used in aromatherapy, cleaning products, and personal care items. The safety of essential oils around babies is a topic of significant concern.
The American Academy of Pediatrics (AAP) advises caution with the use of essential oils around infants and young children. Essential oils can be potent and may cause skin irritation or allergic reactions. Furthermore, inhalation of concentrated oils may lead to respiratory issues, particularly in babies with sensitive respiratory systems.
Allergic Reactions and Sensitivities
Infants have delicate and developing immune systems, which makes them more susceptible to allergic reactions. Although lemongrass allergies are relatively rare, they can occur. Parents should be vigilant for signs of an allergic reaction, which may include:
– Rashes or hives
– Swelling
– Difficulty breathing
If any of these symptoms appear after exposure to lemongrass, it is crucial to seek medical assistance promptly.
Conclusion
In summary, lemongrass can be safe around babies when used appropriately, particularly in cooking and food preparation. However, parents should exercise caution with essential oils and avoid using them in close proximity to infants. As with any new ingredient or product, consulting with a pediatrician before introducing lemongrass into a baby’s diet or environment is advisable. By staying informed and cautious, caregivers can ensure a safe and healthy experience for their little ones.

Is lemongrass safe to breathe?

Lemongrass essential oil and dried leaves are possibly safe when used as medicine, short-term. When applied to the skin: Lemongrass essential oil is possibly safe when used short-term. Some people might develop a rash or skin irritation. When inhaled: Lemongrass essential oil is possibly safe when used in aromatherapy.

Is lemongrass safe for babies?

Yes, lemongrass is generally recognized as safe in amounts typically used in cooking. Avoid offering lemongrass supplements and essential oils to babies and toddlers, as they have not been studied adequately in young children.

Is lemongrass safe to smell?

Consider getting an essential oil diffuser and using lemongrass oil. Not only will your home smell great, but doing this may also help you breathe easier and improve cognitive function. One report states, “…we found aromatherapy an efficacious non- pharmacological therapy for dementia.

Does lemongrass purify the air?

Lemongrass essential oil, which has a strong, citrusy flavor and a fresh aroma, is one of the best essential oils to purify air since it shields against infection-causing germs.

Is lemongrass safe while breastfeeding?

Some types of tea can affect breastmilk production and cause side effects in the baby. Teas that should be avoided include lemongrass, oregano, parsley, peppermint, ginseng, kava andillicium verum. They should be avoided whenever possible, or consumed only under the supervision of a doctor.

What essential oils should babies not be around?

Peppermint, rosemary and eucalyptus should not be used around young children or babies. These herbs contain menthol and 1,8-cineole which can cause seizures, slow the breathing or even stop it completely in very young children or those with respiratory problems! Please take care with these essential oils.

Is lemongrass safe to use around babies?

Is lemongrass safe for babies? Yes, lemongrass is generally recognized as safe in amounts typically used in cooking. Avoid offering lemongrass supplements and essential oils to babies and toddlers, as they have not been studied adequately in young children.

Who should not use lemongrass?

It should also not be taken by children under 18 years of age, nor by anyone with a history of heart disease, liver disease or kidney disease. People who use relaxant medications or blood pressure medication should also speak to their doctor before taking lemongrass.

Is lemongrass safe to diffuse?

People can also add lemongrass essential oil to an oil diffuser, which is available in stores and online. The concentration levels of essential oils when people vaporize them are unlikely to be dangerous for adults.

What is the safest essential oil to use around dogs?

What Essential Oils Are Safe for Dogs?

• Lavender.
• Chamomile.
• Myrrh.
• Ginger.
• Rosemary.
• Bergamot.
• Frankincense.