Lavender Spike Oil Toxicity: What You Need to Know

When thinking of Lavender Spike oil toxicity, we may think that Lavender Spike Oil may be a safer option compared to its traditional counterparts like Turpentine, but it does come with some noted side effects and risks when used in large doses. Lavender Spike oil can be quite toxic if swallowed or if you are allergic to it.

Lavender spike oil has become increasingly popular among artists as a less-toxic alternative to traditional solvents like turpentine and mineral spirits. But what could be more comforting than the soothing scent of lavender, right? Well, it turns out that there’s more to this nifty product than meets the eye (or nose) and there could be some Lavender Spike oil toxicity that you may not be aware of.

In this post I will help you explore these hidden hazards and ensure you know how to handle this seemingly innocent, yet potent potion.

So, fellow artists with a side love of aromas, let’s embark on this journey together and unravel the mysterious world of lavender spike oil toxicity. Who said exploring the unknown couldn’t be fun and scent-sational?

What is Lavender Spike Oil?

Lavender Spike Oil, also known as spike lavender oil or simply spike oil, is a natural solvent derived from the lavender plant (Lavandula latifolia) and is often used in oil painting as an alternative to traditional solvents like turpentine and mineral spirits.

It has a pleasant aroma and is believed to be a healthier choice for artists, thanks to its lower toxicity levels (source).

Both Lavender and Spike Lavender essential oils contain the naturally occurring chemicals linalool and linalyl acetate. These two components are known to offer soothing effects for muscles and joint pain, as well as calming irritated skin and reducing redness (source).

It is important to differentiate between lavender oil and lavandin oil before using them in art-related practices. While lavender oil is derived from Lavandula angustifolia, lavandin oil comes from a hybrid plant, Lavandula x intermedia.

The chemical composition of lavandin oil is slightly different, making it less sought after for its therapeutic properties (source).

lavender spike oil vs gamsol. lavender spike oil toxicity — Is Lavender spike oil toxicity really bad?

Benefits of Lavender Spike Oil

Apart from being used as a solvent for oil paints, Lavender Spike Oil is known for its fresh, sweet, floral, and herbaceous aroma, which makes it popular in aromatherapy.

The oil blends well with various essential oils, such as floral, mint, and coniferous oils, offering a distinct and pleasant scent to its users (Lavender Tips).

Spike Lavender Oil is also known for its therapeutic properties. Its main component, linalool, has been shown to soothe muscles and joint pain, comfort irritated skin, calm redness, and promote deep relaxation (Aromatics).

While traditional Lavender Essential Oil is favored for calming anxiety and stress or promoting sleep, Spike Lavender Essential Oil is more energizing and stimulating, making it a suitable option for different applications (AromaWeb).

Some potential benefits of Lavender Spike Oil include:

Reducing inflammation and soothing irritated skin
Relieving muscle and joint pain
Promoting relaxation and reducing stress
Acting as an expectorant to ease congestion
Providing an energizing and stimulating effect

These benefits make Lavender Spike Oil a versatile option for those seeking natural remedies for various ailments and emotional well-being.

However, it is important to use the oil in proper doses and always be aware of potential side effects or toxicity risks (Livestrong).

Understanding Toxicity

Lavender spike oil, like many essential oils, is generally safe and well-tolerated when used properly. However, it’s important to be aware of potential risks and side effects associated with its improper or excessive use.

Toxicity can occur if lavender spike oil is ingested in large amounts or if an individual has a hypersensitive reaction to the substance.

Essential oils may cause adverse effects, and their concentrations range from 1-20%. For adults, ingesting 5-15 mL of essential oils could lead to toxicity, while smaller ingestions of 2-3 mL have been associated with toxicity in children (source).

When it comes to lavender spike oil specifically, even small amounts may lead to severe toxicity, particularly in children (source).

Signs of lavender spike oil toxicity may include mucous membrane irritation, gastrointestinal symptoms, and, in severe cases, CNS (central nervous system) depression (source).

If ingested or accidentally spilled into the eye, lavender oil poisoning could occur and may affect vision, requiring immediate medical attention (source).

Use lavender spike oil and other essential oils correctly and cautiously to avoid potential toxic reactions. Follow the recommended usage guidelines, and seek medical advice if you experience adverse effects or suspect possible toxicity.

Possible Side Effects of Lavender Spike Oil

Lavender spike oil, like any other substance, may cause side effects in some individuals. It is generally safe for most people, but there have been reports of allergic reactions and potential interactions with certain medications.

According to livestrong, some people may experience hives, breathing problems, and other allergic reactions when ingesting lavender oil.

When applied topically, it can cause skin irritation in some cases. As with any essential oil, moderation and proper usage are key to avoiding undesirable effects. When it comes to Lavender Spike Oil I would suggest not using it in any massages and just stick to cleaning oil paints from brushes.

Furthermore, lavender oil might interact with certain medications, such as sedatives. You need to be cautious and consult your healthcare provider before using lavender oil if you are on any medication or have a known allergy to the substance.

WebMD states that lavender contains an oil with calming effects that might relax certain muscles, as well as having antibacterial and antifungal properties.

These positive effects make it a popular choice for anxiety and other conditions, but one should still be diligent in using it appropriately to avoid potential side effects.

Symptoms of lavender oil poisoning can vary from one individual to another, as mentioned by DoveMed.

Some cases may be mild, while others can be severe. If you suspect lavender oil poisoning, it is crucial to seek medical attention immediately.

Safety Precautions when using Lavender Spike Oil

When handling and using spike lavender oil, it is essential to take the necessary safety measures to ensure your well-being. While this oil offers unique benefits, it can also cause potential hazards if not treated with caution.

First and foremost, spike lavender oil has been categorized as a Specific Target Organ Toxicity (single exposure), Category 2 substance (STOT SE 2, H371) (source). This classification means that exposure could result in harmful effects on specific organs.

To reduce the risk, handle the oil with care, and follow safety measures listed in the SDS or the product’s label.

It is important to keep spike lavender oil away from heat, sparks, open flames, and hot surfaces as it can potentially pose a fire hazard (source). To prevent accidents, store the oil in a cool and well-ventilated place, ensuring that the container is tightly closed when not in use.

In case of accidental exposure, promptly follow first aid measures. For eye contact, flush eyes with water for at least 15 minutes (source). If ingested or inhaled in large quantities, seek immediate medical attention, as such exposure might be irritating.

Lastly, it is critical to keep spike lavender oil out of reach of children and pets, as they can be more sensitive to its effects. Educate every member of the household about the proper handling and storage of the oil to prevent any mishaps.

Lavender Spike Oil Toxicity – Wrap Up!

So yes, lavender spike oil does exhibit some level of toxicity, particularly when ingested. However, when used with caution and in small amounts and as a solvent for oil paints, its potential side effects can be low.

Symptoms of lavender oil poisoning include burning pain in the throat, rashes, diarrhea, confusion, and blurred vision, which are typically attributable to naturally occurring chemicals like linalool and linalyl acetate in the oil (source).

While some essential oils like lavender spike oil have shown to be relatively safe for use in painting, inhaling, or applying to the skin, it is essential to remain cautious and follow proper application methods.

In cases where individuals experience symptoms like nausea, vomiting, headache, and chills, it could indicate an allergic reaction or adverse response to the oil.

As a historically documented non-toxic solvent for oil painting, lavender spike oil is still preferred by many artists.

However, it is good to remember that the oil’s safety largely depends on its proper usage and application. By keeping in mind the potential risks associated with lavender spike oil and using it responsibly, its benefits can be enjoyed with a minimized risk of adverse effects.