Topical eucalyptus oil poisoning

Australas J Dermatol. 1998 Nov;39(4):265-7. doi: 10.1111/j.1440-0960.1998.tb01488.x.

Abstract

Eucalyptus oil is well documented as being extremely toxic if ingested. We report a case of systemic eucalyptus oil toxicity from topical application. A 6-year-old girl presented with slurred speech, ataxia and muscle weakness progressing to unconsciousness following the widespread application of a home remedy for urticaria containing eucalyptus oil. Six hours following removal of the topical preparation her symptoms had resolved, with no long term sequelae.

Publication types

  • Case Reports

MeSH terms

  • Administration, Topical
  • Child
  • Drug Overdose
  • Eucalyptus / poisoning*
  • Female
  • Humans
  • Liver Function Tests
  • Medicine, Traditional
  • Phytotherapy
  • Plant Oils / administration & dosage
  • Plant Oils / poisoning*
  • Plants, Medicinal*
  • Proteinuria / etiology
  • Pruritus / therapy*
  • Remission, Spontaneous
  • Unconsciousness
  • Urticaria / therapy*

Substances

  • Plant Oils