Lavender oil comes from the flowers of the herb lavender, known as "Lavandula angustifolia" in Latin. Native to the Mediterranean, lavender has played a role in hygienic customs since the times of ancient Egypt. For example, people from that era used the herb to mummify bodies and bathe -- to name just a few applications. Many people today incorporate lavender oil in aromatherapy practices. Using the oil form of lavender requires caution, however, because it can be dangerous in certain situations.
Toxicity
The oil in lavender flowers appears to relax some muscles and provide an overall calming effect, explains the National Institutes of Health. These possible influences, as well as the pleasing smell of the herb, have made lavender oil common in aromatherapy, which relies on fragrances to improve mood. But oils made from lavender flowers contain toxic substances, such as linalool and linalyl acetate. Due to the presence of these harmful ingredients, individuals can develop a condition called lavender poisoning if they consume lavender oil. Symptoms of lavender poisoning include abdominal discomfort, blurry eyesight, diarrhea, problems breathing, rash, vomiting and a burning sensation in the eyes or throat.
Seeking Help
All instances of lavender poisoning require prompt medical attention, according to the National Institutes of Health. Until the affected person receives assistance, drinking milk or water can help sometimes, provided a health care professional recommends that course of action. Yet, you should never attempt to drink any fluids if you develop symptoms that hinder your ability to swallow. Such symptoms can include convulsions, altered consciousness or vomiting.
Treatment
Treatments to relieve lavender poisoning focus on decreasing complications and removing the ingested lavender oil from your system. Widespread procedures range from using activated charcoal to induce vomiting to taking medications designed to reduce the effects of the oil. Getting medical attention as fast as possible is especially important because lavender oil can cause more damage the longer it remains in your body. People who begin treatment quickly have a better chance of recovering faster and suffer fewer complications.
Considerations
Some people experience an allergic reaction after rubbing lavender oil on their skin. Symptoms of an allergic reaction to applied lavender oil are similar to those associated with lavender poisoning. Topical application of lavender oil and inhaling the scent are usually safe, however. Nevertheless, the National Institutes of Health advises breastfeeding and pregnant women to avoid lavender oil, because studies have not determined the impact of the substance on them. This recommendation also applies to prepubescent boys, who can experience atypical breast growth due to hormonal changes the oil can cause.
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