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Melaleuca oil poisoning

M R Jacobs1, C S Hornfeldt

  • 1Hennepin Regional Poison Center, Hennepin County Medical Center, Minneapolis, MN 55415.

Journal of Toxicology. Clinical Toxicology
|January 1, 1994
PubMed

Insights

Ingesting a small amount of concentrated melaleuca oil can cause toxicity in children, leading to confusion and inability to walk. Symptoms resolved within hours, highlighting the need for caution with this essential oil.

Area of Science:

  • Toxicology
  • Dermatology
  • Phytochemistry

Background:

  • Melaleuca oil, derived from Melaleuca alternifolia, is recognized for its terpene and alcohol content.
  • Limited clinical data exists regarding the effects of ingesting concentrated melaleuca oil products.
  • Essential oils are increasingly used in consumer products, necessitating an understanding of their potential toxicity.

Observation:

  • A 23-month-old boy experienced acute neurological symptoms, including confusion and ataxia, 30 minutes after ingesting less than 10 mL of a 100% melaleuca oil product.
  • The child's condition rapidly improved, with complete symptom resolution within 5 hours of ingestion.
  • Hospitalization was brief, and the patient was discharged the following day without lasting effects.

Findings:

  • Ingestion of a modest quantity of concentrated melaleuca oil can induce transient but significant toxicity in young children.
  • The primary symptoms observed were neurological, suggesting a potential neurotoxic effect of melaleuca oil components.
  • The rapid recovery indicates the body's ability to metabolize and clear the ingested substance effectively.

Implications:

  • This case underscores the potential risks associated with accidental ingestion of concentrated melaleuca oil, particularly in pediatric populations.
  • Healthcare providers should be aware of the potential for melaleuca oil toxicity when evaluating patients with unexplained neurological symptoms.
  • Further research is warranted to fully elucidate the toxicological profile and safe usage guidelines for melaleuca oil products.

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