Linda .... Regarding your query on Pennyroyal ... My research tells me in NO way should it be used!!! I quote "(1.) Safety Data: Oral toxin. Abortifacient (due to pulegone content). Ingestion of large doses has resulted in death." " (2.)Should not be used in aromatherapy whether internally or externally."!!!! My suggestion as a safer bet would be lavender ((3.)"Safety Data: Non-toxic, non-irritant, non-sensitizing") Lavender can be applied neat (undiluted) to most skin. It is an insecticide. Also commonly used is citronella ((4.)"Safety Data: Non-toxin, non-irritant; may cause dermatitis in some individuals. Avoid during pregnancy") Due to it being non-toxic it would be safer. To avoid contact of the oil on the skin, even though it should ALWAYS be applied diluted in a base/carrier oil, it can be applied by placing a drop or two on a hankerchief and tying the hankerchief near/on the child/mother's clothing. The Illustrated Encyclopedia of Essential Oils by Julia Lawless Element Books, Rockport,Ma. 1995 (1.& 2.) pg.176 (3.) pg.162 (4.)134 Hope this helps!! Sincerely, Jodi Barnard Ladner, British Columbia [log in to unmask] *********************************************** The LACTNET mailing list is powered by L-Soft's renowned LISTSERV(R) list management software together with L-Soft's LSMTP(TM) mailer for lightning fast mail delivery. For more information, go to: http://www.lsoft.com/LISTSERV-powered.html