Eucalyptus oil is a common household product used for aromatherapy, cleaning, or as a topical rubefacient. However, it presents an immediate poisoning hazard if swallowed. The substance is highly concentrated, and even a small amount of pure oil can be toxic, especially to young children. Because the oil is rapidly absorbed, any delay in seeking professional medical assistance can lead to severe complications. Swift, informed action is necessary.
Recognizing Signs of Ingestion
Symptoms of eucalyptus oil ingestion typically manifest quickly, often within 30 minutes to four hours. Initial physical signs frequently involve the digestive system, including nausea, vomiting, and abdominal pain. The caustic nature of the oil can also cause a burning sensation in the mouth and throat.
The most concerning effects involve the central nervous system (CNS) and the respiratory system. Neurological symptoms may start with drowsiness, dizziness, or difficulty with coordination (ataxia). As poisoning progresses, more severe signs can develop, such as slurred speech, profound CNS depression, seizures, or loss of consciousness. Respiratory distress, including shallow or rapid breathing, wheezing, and the risk of aspiration pneumonitis, indicates a serious medical emergency.
Immediate First Aid: Actions to Take at Home
Once ingestion is suspected, the first priority is removing any residual oil from exposed areas. If the person is conscious, rinse their mouth thoroughly with water. If the oil has contacted the skin or eyes, flush the affected area immediately with large amounts of water for at least 15 minutes.
Remove any clothing contaminated or soaked with the oil, as the product can continue to be absorbed through the skin. You must never attempt to induce vomiting, as this action carries a severe risk. Vomiting can force the oil into the lungs, leading to aspiration pneumonitis, a serious condition where an oily substance enters the lung tissue.
Contacting Emergency Services and Medical Treatment
After initial home steps, immediate contact with medical professionals is necessary. In the United States, call the national toll-free Poison Help hotline at 1-800-222-1222. In Canada, call 1-844-764-7669 (1-844-POISON-X). If the person is unconscious, not breathing, or experiencing a seizure, call 911 or your local emergency number immediately.
Information for Poison Control
When speaking with Poison Control or emergency services, be prepared to provide specific information:
- The person’s age, weight, and current condition.
- The approximate amount of eucalyptus oil swallowed.
- The time of ingestion.
- The exact name of the product, including strength or ingredients.
If possible, bring the product container to the emergency room so medical staff can confirm the exact formulation.
Hospital Treatment
Medical treatment focuses primarily on supportive care and monitoring vital signs, including heart rate, blood pressure, and breathing rate. Intravenous fluids may be administered to support hydration and manage low blood pressure. If seizures occur, anti-seizure medications will be given to stabilize the patient. While methods like gastric lavage or activated charcoal are used in some poisoning cases, they are generally avoided in eucalyptus oil ingestion due to the high risk of aspiration.
The Mechanism of Eucalyptus Oil Poisoning
The toxicity of eucalyptus oil is primarily due to its main active component, 1,8-cineole (eucalyptol), which can constitute up to 70% of the oil’s volume. This monoterpene compound is highly fat-soluble, allowing it to be absorbed rapidly from the gastrointestinal tract and into the bloodstream. Once in circulation, cineole quickly crosses the blood-brain barrier to affect the central nervous system.
The compound acts as a CNS depressant, explaining the progression from drowsiness to coma, and it can also lower the seizure threshold. Ingesting as little as 2 to 3 milliliters of pure oil can cause noticeable CNS depression, while doses of 5 milliliters or more are associated with significant toxicity. The respiratory system is affected both directly by cineole’s depressant action and indirectly through the risk of aspiration.