Addiction doesn’t discriminate. It’s a heartbreaking truth that forever changed the lives of Matt and Megan. Their story is one of love and profound loss, a powerful reminder of life's fragility. In their memory, their family now works to spread awareness and fight the stigma surrounding this disease. This spirit of care is vital. It pushes us to discuss other preventable tragedies, even unexpected ones like a potential lavender overdose. By sharing these stories and information, we can turn grief into a powerful tool for protecting the people we love.
‘The more that people can do to understand that and show love and compassion, the more success the loved one struggling with the addiction has in overcoming it.’
How can somebody go back and relapse when they know that there’s a chance that it will kill them because they’ve been sober? They told me, ‘we don’t think it would happen to us.’
Matt and Megan would want people to know that it can happen to you. It can happen to anyone.”
A Bond Broken by a Lavender Overdose
After losing both of their children to the opioid pandemic, our caring Eterneva customer, Liz, and her family were driven to take action to prevent this tragedy from happening to other families.
“Matt and Megan were both extremely caring and compassionate and sensitive people. They will be remembered for the real people they were, not when they were under the control of their addict.”
Matt and his little sister Megan were two peas in a pod. They were connected at the hip. He always looked out for her… he was the big brother protector. From the minute she was born, Matt just adored her.
Megan was very outgoing but stubborn and headstrong. She was very passionate and stood up for her convictions. She was so much fun to be around, very insightful and intuitive. She had a good fashion sense and things like that that people really were drawn to.
Matt was extremely intelligent, very bright, very, very book smart, but also very sensitive (a common trait among people affected by this disease). He was very compassionate, extroverted and very social… the life of the party.
They were both leaders in their own right and people wanted to participate and do things with them. They loved doing things outdoors, always enjoying the beach or hiking.
“I think one of the funny things was that they had their own little inner language, and they had this little word between them. They thought it was hilarious and it would drive everybody else crazy.”
To remember Matt and Megan, Liz and her family grew memorial diamonds with Eterneva, so that they can move forward with their sparkle as they work to remove the stigma of addiction and spread awareness with their organization, the Last Overdose.
What is Lavender Poisoning?
Lavender is widely loved for its calming scent, often used in aromatherapy and relaxation products. While the fragrant plant itself is generally harmless, the highly concentrated essential oil can pose a risk if not used correctly. Lavender poisoning happens when a person, particularly a child, swallows a significant amount of lavender oil. According to MedlinePlus, this can occur either by accident or intentionally. Because essential oils are so potent, it’s important to understand that they are powerful substances that need to be handled with care. While a few drops in a diffuser can fill a room with a soothing aroma, ingesting the oil directly can lead to serious health issues. Understanding the potential risks is the first step in using lavender oil safely and enjoying its benefits without worry.
The Toxic Components in Lavender Oil
So, what exactly makes lavender oil potentially harmful when ingested? The primary toxic components are two chemical compounds called linalyl acetate and linalool. These are the very substances that give lavender its signature floral scent and therapeutic properties. However, when consumed in their concentrated form, they can be poisonous. Think of it like this: a sprinkle of salt can enhance a meal, but drinking a cup of saltwater would make you sick. It’s all about the concentration and the amount. These compounds are safe when used as intended—for aromatherapy or properly diluted topical application—but they were never meant to be swallowed, which can overwhelm the body and lead to a toxic reaction.
Symptoms of Lavender Oil Poisoning in Humans
Knowing the signs of lavender oil poisoning is key to getting help quickly. If someone has swallowed the oil, the symptoms can range from mild to severe. According to medical experts, you should watch for blurry vision, difficulty breathing, or a burning pain in the throat. Other signs can include confusion, decreased consciousness, stomach pain, and vomiting. In some cases, a person might experience watery or even bloody diarrhea or develop a rash. If the oil comes into contact with the eyes, it can cause burns. The severity of these symptoms often depends on how much oil was ingested and the person's age and size, which is why it's so important to treat any ingestion as a serious medical concern, especially when it involves a child.
Common Signs of Ingestion
Even a small amount of ingested lavender oil can cause immediate problems. For an adult, swallowing a little might just lead to irritation in the mouth and stomach. However, the situation is much more serious for children. The Poison Control Center warns that even a very small amount can be incredibly harmful to a child, often causing them to become extremely sleepy or difficult to wake up. This profound drowsiness is a major red flag that something is wrong. Because children are smaller and their bodies are still developing, they are far more vulnerable to the toxic effects of essential oils than adults are.
Severe Reactions to Watch For
When a larger amount of lavender oil is swallowed, the symptoms can become much more dangerous. Beyond initial stomach upset, a person might experience intense throat pain, persistent vomiting, and diarrhea. More alarming signs include neurological issues like trouble walking, headaches, and confusion. The poisoning can also lead to extreme tiredness, blurred vision, and in the most severe cases, life-threatening complications such as difficulty breathing or even a coma. These symptoms indicate a serious medical emergency that requires immediate professional intervention. Recognizing these severe reactions is critical for a swift and effective response.
What to Do in Case of Poisoning
If you suspect someone has swallowed lavender oil, the most important thing to do is act fast and get medical help right away. This isn't a "wait and see" situation. Your first step should be to call for emergency assistance. You can reach your local emergency number, like 911, or call the national Poison Help hotline at 1-800-222-1222. This free, confidential service is available 24/7 and connects you with poison control experts who can provide immediate, life-saving instructions. They will guide you on what to do next based on the specific situation. Don't hesitate to make the call; it's always better to be safe and get expert advice.
Seek Immediate Medical Help
When you call for help, you might be tempted to try and fix the situation yourself, but there's one crucial rule to follow: DO NOT make the person throw up unless you are specifically instructed to do so by a poison control expert or a doctor. Inducing vomiting can sometimes make things worse. For example, if the oil is coming back up, it can cause more damage to the throat and esophagus or even be inhaled into the lungs, leading to serious breathing problems. Medical professionals are trained to handle these situations, so trust their guidance and wait for their instructions before taking any action.
Preparing for the Emergency Call
To help the emergency responders or poison control experts help you, try to have some key information ready before you call. If possible, gather the following details: the person's age, weight, and current condition; the name of the product that was swallowed (and its ingredients, if you have them); the time the oil was ingested; and an estimate of how much was swallowed. Having this information on hand will allow the experts to give you the most accurate and effective advice quickly. It helps them assess the level of risk and determine the best course of action for treatment.
Specific Risks and Side Effects
While anyone can have a bad reaction to lavender oil, some people are more at risk than others. Adults generally don't experience poisoning from simply inhaling the oil during aromatherapy or from swallowing a very small, accidental amount. However, the risk profile changes dramatically for children. Their small bodies are much more sensitive, and even a tiny amount of ingested oil can cause a significant reaction. Beyond ingestion, there are also risks associated with applying lavender oil directly to the skin, which can cause irritation or allergic reactions. Understanding these specific risks helps you use the oil more safely for yourself and your family.
Dangers for Children
Children are uniquely vulnerable to lavender oil poisoning. Because of their natural curiosity, they might be tempted to taste the oil if it's left within their reach. As noted by medical experts, even a small amount can be enough to cause a serious reaction in a child. One of the most common signs is sudden and extreme drowsiness, which can be alarming for any parent. It’s essential to treat essential oils like you would any medication or cleaning product—store them securely and out of sight to prevent accidental ingestion and keep your little ones safe.
Skin Irritation and Sun Sensitivity
Even if it’s not swallowed, lavender oil can cause problems when applied to the skin. Using undiluted lavender oil can lead to allergic reactions, including itching, redness, rashes, and even swelling. This is known as contact dermatitis. To avoid this, it's always recommended to dilute essential oils with a carrier oil, like coconut or jojoba oil, before applying them topically. Some people may also find that their skin becomes more sensitive to the sun after using lavender oil, so it's a good idea to avoid direct sun exposure on areas where you've applied it.
Is Lavender Toxic to Pets?
Many of us use aromatherapy to create a calm environment at home, but it's crucial to consider our furry family members. According to the ASPCA, lavender contains compounds that are toxic to dogs, cats, and horses. While a few drops in a well-ventilated room might not cause issues, direct ingestion of the plant or essential oil can lead to poisoning. For those of us who have lost our beloved pets, we know how important it is to protect them. Keeping essential oils and lavender plants out of their reach is a simple way to ensure their safety and prevent a heartbreaking accident.
Signs of Poisoning in Dogs and Cats
If you suspect your pet has ingested lavender, look for specific signs of distress. The most common symptoms of lavender poisoning in dogs and cats are gastrointestinal. Your pet might start to feel nauseous, begin vomiting, or show a sudden lack of interest in their food. While these signs can be associated with many different issues, they should never be ignored, especially if there's a chance your pet was exposed to lavender. Paying close attention to your pet's behavior is the best way to catch a problem early.
What to Do if Your Pet is Exposed
If you think your pet has eaten lavender or been exposed to the essential oil, it's important to act quickly. Don't wait for symptoms to worsen. Call your veterinarian or the ASPCA Animal Poison Control Center right away. These professionals can provide immediate advice on what to do next. Be ready to tell them what your pet was exposed to and how much, if you know. Prompt veterinary care is the best way to ensure your pet has a positive outcome and can help prevent more serious complications from developing.
Recommendations for Safe Use
Enjoying the benefits of lavender oil while keeping everyone in your home safe is entirely possible with a few simple precautions. Responsible use comes down to understanding proper application and secure storage. By treating essential oils with the respect they deserve as potent plant extracts, you can minimize the risks of accidental exposure or negative reactions. Following a few key guidelines will allow you to incorporate lavender oil into your wellness routine with confidence and peace of mind, ensuring it remains a source of comfort, not concern.
Proper Dilution and Application
One of the most important rules for using lavender oil topically is to never apply it to your skin undiluted. Always mix it with a carrier oil, such as coconut, jojoba, or almond oil, to reduce its concentration and minimize the risk of skin irritation. It's also essential to read and follow the instructions on the product label. The label will often provide specific guidelines for dilution ratios and recommended uses, which can vary depending on age or certain health conditions. Following these directions is the best way to ensure a safe and pleasant experience.
Safe Storage Practices
Proper storage is perhaps the most critical step in preventing lavender oil poisoning, especially in a home with children or pets. Always keep essential oils in a place that is high up and out of sight and reach. A locked cabinet is an even better option. Make sure the caps are tightly secured after each use. By storing your oils safely, you create a barrier that prevents curious little hands or paws from accessing them, effectively eliminating the risk of accidental ingestion and ensuring your home remains a safe environment for everyone.
Turning Grief into Action for Overdose Awareness
At the Last Overdose, their mission is clear and so very important.
“We will put an end to this American created crisis in honor of all of our youth who fought the tough addiction fight but lost the battle. We owe this to them to keep their legacy alive and prevent their death from being in vain. We can do better for our children and they deserve it.”
To begin fulfilling this mission, their team has swiftly established the Megan and Matthew Szabo Endowed Excellence Fund at the Steve Hicks School of Social Work. The funds distributed from this endowment will support social work students in field placements in the areas of addiction and mental health.
They work to inform people on the truth of the opioid crisis and build awareness on what addiction really is and how it should be treated.
“Addiction is a degenerative physical disease of the brain — plain and simple. However, it can be treated and the damage reversed through sustained abstinence, which requires a professional diagnosis to establish a custom treatment plan specific for each individual — one size does not fit all. It is a disease just like cancer, diabetes, heart disease, asthma, arthritis, hepatitis and autism, etc. Nobody wants a disease. However, if contracted, it is an illness that requires treatment. Similar to diabetes and heart disease, it is also preventable. And, everybody deserves to receive appropriate treatment for their disease.”
Substance use disorder can impact ANYONE. It is non-discriminatory. On the Last Overdose, everyone can learn more on the truth about addiction, along with:
- Warning signs someone might be dealing with an opioid problem,
- What to do if you suspect your loved one may have a substance use disorder,
- How you can help and get involved.
New provisional data released by the Federal government estimates that nearly 108,000 people died from drug overdoses from January to December 2021, which is about a 15% increase from the number of deaths in 2020 (around 94,000), according to Farida Ahmad, a research scientist with the Center for Disease Control and Preventions.
The trend is going the wrong direction and there is still much to be done. It’s hard to fathom how many families have been impacted by addiction. You can read more about the statistics involved in this crisis on the Last Overdose.
Finding Comfort After Losing a Loved One to Overdose
“I talk to them every day. I go for a walk and I talk to them while I'm walking the dog. During the holidays I make their favorite dish. I burn candles. Megan was a big candle lover. I have lavender around the house. I planted flowers and trees that they liked in the yard and I spend time making sure that those are taken care of. Megan also loved the redwoods and so I like to go for hikes as well.”
While Matt and Megan’s love will stay with their family through all of the good memories, and their presence will be remembered with every sparkle of their diamonds, no one should have to lose a loved one like this or struggle with addiction alone.
Matt and Megan sparkle as diamonds as reminders to show love and compassion to others every day. We may never know what someone else may be dealing with and who may need some gentle kindness.
This Overdose Awareness Day, we want to acknowledge and honor those living with addiction as well as those who have been affected by a loved one with addiction. You are so very loved and you deserve love, support, happiness and peace.
You're Not Alone: Where to Find Addiction Support
If you or someone you love needs help, please visit AddictionHelp.com for information on treatment, recovery options, and other support resources.While Matt and Megan’s love will stay with their family through all of the good memories, and their presence will be remembered with every sparkle of their diamonds, no one should have to lose a loved one like this or struggle with addiction alone.
Frequently Asked Questions
Why does an article about addiction awareness also talk about lavender poisoning? The connection is about preventing tragedies through awareness. Matt and Megan's story is a powerful reminder of how devastating an overdose can be. Their family now works to prevent others from experiencing that pain. We share information about other preventable accidents, like lavender oil poisoning, in that same spirit of care. It’s about turning grief into action and protecting the people we love by sharing vital safety information.
Is all lavender dangerous, or just the oil? The lavender plant itself is generally safe and widely enjoyed. The risk comes from the highly concentrated essential oil. Think of it this way: you can enjoy the scent of lavender flowers in your garden without worry, but the essential oil is a potent extract. Ingesting even a small amount of this concentrated oil can be toxic, which is why it requires careful handling and storage.
What is the single most important step if I suspect someone has swallowed lavender oil? Act immediately and call for professional help. Your first and most important call should be to the Poison Help hotline at 1-800-222-1222 or your local emergency number. Do not try to make the person vomit unless you are specifically told to do so by a medical expert, as this can sometimes cause more harm. Getting expert guidance right away is the safest course of action.
How can I use lavender oil safely, especially with children and pets at home? Safe use comes down to two key practices: proper dilution and secure storage. Never apply undiluted lavender oil directly to the skin; always mix it with a carrier oil like coconut or jojoba oil first. Most importantly, store your essential oils as you would any medication: in a locked cabinet or a high shelf, completely out of the reach of children and pets, with the caps screwed on tightly.
Are there any risks to using lavender oil on my skin? Yes, applying undiluted lavender oil directly to your skin can cause irritation, redness, or an allergic rash. This is why diluting it with a carrier oil is so important. Some people also find that their skin becomes more sensitive to sunlight after using lavender oil, so it’s a good idea to avoid sun exposure on any areas where you’ve applied it.
Key Takeaways
- Store essential oils like medicine: Concentrated lavender oil is toxic if ingested, posing a significant risk to children and pets. To prevent accidents, keep oils tightly sealed and stored in a high or locked cabinet, completely out of reach.
- Act immediately if poisoning is suspected: If someone swallows lavender oil, call the Poison Help hotline at 1-800-222-1222 or 911 right away. Watch for symptoms like extreme drowsiness or stomach pain, but get professional guidance before symptoms worsen.
- Honor loved ones through awareness: Matt and Megan's story shows how sharing vital information, from addiction to household safety, can prevent tragedy. Educating others is a powerful way to protect your community and keep a loved one's legacy alive.
