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Fatal cade oil poisoning: Three Cases
Mohammed Ouali1, Azeddine Essadi1, Badreddine Zarhouni1
1Faculty of Medicine and Pharmacy of Tangier, Abdelmalek Essaâdi University, Morocco.
The Medico-Legal Journal
|August 19, 2025
Summary
Topical cade oil (Juniperus oxycedrus) application is dangerous for infants. Phenol in cade oil caused fatal poisoning in three infants treated for common ailments, highlighting risks for children.
Area of Science:
- Toxicology
- Dermatology
- Pediatrics
Background:
- Cade oil, derived from Juniperus oxycedrus, is used in traditional Moroccan medicine.
- It is readily available on e-commerce platforms like Amazon.
- Concerns exist regarding its toxicity, especially in pediatric populations.
Purpose of the Study:
- To report fatal cases of infant poisoning from topical cade oil application.
- To highlight the risks associated with using cade oil for common infant illnesses.
Main Methods:
- Case report of three infant fatalities.
- Analysis of clinical presentation and suspected cause of death.
Main Results:
- Three infants died after topical cade oil application for diarrhea, vomiting, and fever.
- Phenol, a component of cade oil, was identified as the likely toxic agent responsible for systemic signs.
Conclusions:
- Topical cade oil use in infants is potentially lethal.
- The promotion and availability of cade oil warrant increased awareness of its dangers, particularly for children.
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