Lavender has been used since ancient times as a bath additive, to ward off insects and as a medicinal and spice plant due to its high content of essential oils and its strong scent. Contrary to what many people believe, the plant is completely harmless to cats, dogs and (small) children; lavender is only poisonous to rodents.
Lavender is ideal for the family garden
Due to the strong smell, lavender and certain parts of the plant are often considered poisonous. However, that is not true, quite the opposite: the plant is explicitly one of the plants that can be planted in family gardens without any worries - the little ones can put the plant parts in their mouths without anything happening.
No lavender oil for children under two years old
Parents only need to be careful with lavender oil, as it contains very high concentrations of essential oils. Children under two years of age should never be treated or rubbed with essential oils of any kind - this can cause respiratory arrest. However, this is not a problem with older children.
Cat and dog owners need not be afraid
All parts of the plant are not poisonous to cats and dogs either. Some cat owners assume that the plant is poisonous from the fact that most cats instinctively avoid lavender, but the animals just don't like the strong smell. Therefore, you don't need to worry if your cat accidentally snacks on lavender.
Lavender is only dangerous for small rodents
However, be careful with small rodents like
- Guinea pig
- Hamsters
- Rabbit
- and mice
required, because the plant is poisonous for these animals due to the high concentration of essential oils. Rabbits and guinea pigs in particular can die from lavender poisoning.
Side effects possible
Although lavender is non-toxic, it can cause reactions such as headaches in susceptible people - especially if lavender oil is burned in an aroma lamp. In some people, lavender oil or lavender cream causes skin irritation and even rashes. Cat and dog owners should give their animals the opportunity to avoid a strong lavender smell.
Tips & Tricks
Please also remember that special varieties such as lavender and spit lavender contain significantly higher concentrations of essential oils and should therefore be used extremely sparingly. Real lavender is much more suitable as a scent and flavoring plant.
