Poisoning by the volatile oils in childhood

Abstract

It is pointed out that the volatile oils as a group head the morbidity and mortality lists for accidental poisoning in childhood. Camphorated oil and oil of turpentine are the oils most commonly ingested, but oil of wintergreen accounts for three times as many deaths as camphor, the second commonest lethal agent. The symptoms and treatment of poisoning by camphor, eucalyptus, sassafras, turpentine and oil of wintergreen are discussed. It is suggested that the sale of these dangerous poisons, with the exception of turpentine, be controlled.