Is it safe to use peppermint oil around babies for teething?
Based on 1 peer-reviewed studybaby
Verdict: Avoid
No. Peppermint oil can cause breathing problems in babies.
What's actually in it
Peppermint oil contains menthol, which can cause breathing problems in babies and young kids. Applied near the nose or mouth, it can trigger breath-holding in infants. Aromatherapy guidance specifically warns against peppermint for babies under 6 years.
What the research says
A 2025 study in J Occup Environ Hyg documented VOC load from essential oil diffusers. Peppermint is in the high-terpene category.
For teething, use a chilled silicone teether, a cold washcloth, or gum massage with a clean finger. Skip peppermint entirely in baby areas.
The research at a glance
| Study | Journal | Year |
|---|---|---|
| VOC and particle emissions from tea tree oil in diffusers. | J Occup Environ Hyg | 2025 |
What to use instead
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