What precautions apply to children using cinnamon oil?
Written by
Thomas Wilson
Reviewed by
Prof. Graham Pierce, Ph.D.Cinnamon essential oil requires caution with kids due to their heightened sensitivity. Children under six must be completely free of all exposure. Older children require extremely dilute solutions under supervision. I learned that lesson when my nephew reacted to diffused oil. Their developing bodies metabolize these compounds differently from adults.
Age Restrictions
- No topical or aromatic exposure under six years
- Ages 6-12 require 0.25% maximum dilution
- Teens 13+ follow adult ratios with supervision
Diffusion Guidelines
- Limit sessions to ten minutes maximum
- Use one drop maximum per 200ml water
- Ensure room ventilation during diffusion
Emergency Response
- Skin exposure: wash immediately with soap and cold water
- Ingestion: call poison control and give milk
- Eye contact: rinse with water for fifteen minutes
Proper storage avoids accidents. Store oils in locked cabinets out of reach of children. Use child-proof caps on all bottles. Never leave diffusers unattended around children. I store my oils in a high box with a combination lock. Consider cinnamon oil a medicinal product that requires careful handling and storage.
Extra care must be taken with special populations. Asthmatic children must avoid all aromas. Individuals with sensitive skin must receive medical supervision first. Never use around infants nor when pregnant. The containers must be clearly labeled with a warning indicating the presence of poison. This is necessary to avert radical emergencies.
Education reduces the risk. Teach older children that oils are for adult use only. Discuss emergency procedures in the event of accidental exposure. Keep poison control numbers handy. Practice proper handling when it's calm. These simple conversations create a safer world for all.
Read the full article: 10 Powerful Benefits of Cinnamon Oil
