Is rosemary essential oil safe around babies?

Understanding the Safety of Rosemary Essential Oil Around Babies
The use of essential oils, including rosemary, around babies is a topic that raises significant concern among parents and caregivers. While rosemary essential oil is celebrated for its potential health benefits, its safety for infants, particularly those under six months old, is a nuanced issue.
Safety Considerations for Infants
Research indicates that essential oils should generally be avoided for babies younger than three months. For those older than three months, some essential oils can be beneficial, but caution is still advised. Specifically, rosemary essential oil is often included in discussions about oils that may pose risks to young children. Experts recommend avoiding its use on infants under six months due to their sensitive skin and the potential for adverse reactions.
Potential Benefits and Risks
Rosemary, known scientifically as *Rosmarinus officinalis*, possesses natural antioxidant and anti-inflammatory properties. Some studies suggest that rosemary extract can be safe for babies, particularly for its anti-inflammatory benefits. However, the concentrated nature of essential oils means they can penetrate the skin more easily in infants, which raises the risk of toxicity.
Parents should also be aware that while rosemary may have some therapeutic properties, it is not universally safe for all children. The American Academy of Pediatrics and other health organizations often caution against the use of certain essential oils, including rosemary, for very young children due to the potential for respiratory issues and skin irritation.
Best Practices for Use
If parents choose to use rosemary essential oil for older infants, it is crucial to dilute the oil properly and conduct a patch test to check for any allergic reactions. Additionally, using a diffuser in a well-ventilated area can help minimize direct exposure to the oil. Always consult with a healthcare professional before introducing any essential oils into a baby’s environment, as individual health conditions and sensitivities can vary widely.
Conclusion
In summary, while rosemary essential oil has potential benefits, its use around babies, especially those under six months, should be approached with caution. Parents are encouraged to prioritize safety by consulting healthcare professionals and adhering to guidelines regarding essential oil use in infants. As with any health-related decision, informed choices are key to ensuring the well-being of young children.

Is rosemary essential oil safe to breathe?

Yes. Rosemary essential oil can be ingested safely and without side effects. It can be used topically, internally, or externally. It is safe for children, pregnant women, and nursing mothers. It may cause temporary skin irritation.

Can you put rosemary oil on baby scalp?

Rosemary oil has been traditionally used to stimulate hair growth. It can be diluted with a carrier oil and gently massaged into the baby’s scalp.

Is rosemary oil safe for babies to smell?

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 rosemary safe to diffuse?

The chemical makeup of Rosemary essential oil gives it renewing properties that can be both energizing and settling—particularly when you diffuse the oil. When you need to study for a big test, memorize your slides for a presentation at work, or just need to finish a project, diffusing Rosemary oil can be helpful.

Are essential oils OK for babies to breathe?

Overexposure to aerosols with essential oils in them can irritate the lungs, eyes and skin of young children, sensitive adults and even pets.

When should you not use rosemary essential oil?

Antiplatelet and anticoagulant drugs (blood thinners) Rosemary may affect the blood’s ability to clot. It could interfere with any blood-thinning drugs you are taking, including: Warfarin (Coumadin)

What essential oils should babies not be around?

Don’t use peppermint oil on children less than 30 months old. Peppermint used on children under 30 months of age can increase a risk for seizures. Don’t use oils near a heat source. Using essential oils near heat source can cause a fire.

Is rosemary safe around babies?

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.

What essential oils should not be used in a diffuser?

Other essential oils are not suitable for diffusion because they are slightly irritating (cypress, juniper, Scots pine, etc.) or have a particular scent that makes them unpleasant to breathe (carrot, coriander, cumin, etc.).

What does smelling rosemary essential oil do?

The aroma of rosemary ignites neurotransmitters, a chemical release (acetylcholine). This release stimulates motor neurons of the nervous system which activate muscles and thereby kicks the brain into high gear.