Can You Use Essential Oils On Bearded Dragons?

Last Updated on January 22, 2025 by Miranda

Let’s start with the term essential. The word ‘essential’ does not mean ‘needed’ or required when used in the phrase ‘essential oils.’ The term “essential” in “essential oils” derives from the word “essence,” which means: a material extracted from a plant or medication and containing its unique features in a concentrated form by distillation, infusion, etc.

Reptiles, including bearded dragons, have distinctive biological structures that make them sensitive to essential oils in ways that differ from mammals. Their skin is more permeable, which can lead to higher absorption rates, and their respiratory systems are easily affected by fumes. Understanding these differences is critical when considering the use of any essential oils around reptiles.

Over the last several years, essential oils have grown ubiquitous in many of our lives and homes as a natural cure-all for disease or emotional malaise. But what does this mean for our pets? You must conduct specific searches for each essential oil you intend to use and determine whether it has any known negative interactions or effects on responses in general, not just Bearded Dragons.

Each essential oil is unique; some are safe, while others are dangerous. Let’s look at essential oils and how they might assist our beardies, as well as what to avoid.

Table of Contents

• Are essential oils toxic to bearded dragons?
• Safe Practices for Using Oils Around Bearded Dragons
• What essential oils are safe for bearded dragons?
  • Frankincense Oil 
  • Lavender Oil
  • Wild Orange 
• FAQs

Are essential oils toxic to bearded dragons?

Since your pet may be tempted by sweet-smelling liquids, you should never leave essential oils exposed. Before using essential oils on your pet, consult with your veterinarian to ensure that they are safe for your pet. Veterinarians can tell you if the essential oils in your diffuser pose any danger to your pet.

If possible, keep the oil diffuser away from your dragon’s tank so that it isn’t anywhere near him. This will ensure that he doesn’t inhale any of the oil through his mouth or nose. Dragons are particularly prone to Upper Respiratory Infections and irritations.

The essential oils listed below are toxic to your dragon companions.

• Birch
• Cedarwood
• Black pepper
• Jasmin
• Juniper Melaleuca
• Cinnamon
• Clove
• White fir
• Eucalyptus 
• Coriander

Remember! Toxic tree oils and citrus fruits should be avoided at all costs.

Citrus oils of low quality might be detrimental. Make sure you utilise oils that are 100 per cent natural and avoid using anything too strong (also avoid using a high concentration of oils).

Using Tea Tree Oil, on the other hand, is extremely harmful to all reptiles, whether applied topically or consumed internally. Individuals who have attempted to treat their bearded dragons with this type of medication have reported that some have been poisoned to the point of death.

The greatest suggestion for all others is to check for any negative signs on each specific oil you use and avoid using it if you find any. You just must not do so; it is simply not worth the danger.

Bearded dragons exposed to toxic essential oils might exhibit signs like lethargy, discoloration of their scales, or a decrease in appetite. Respiratory distress, characterized by open-mouth breathing or wheezing, can also occur. Owners should be vigilant and seek veterinary care if these symptoms are observed.

Also Read: Bearded Dragon Coughing: What You Need To Know

Safe Practices for Using Oils Around Bearded Dragons

When using essential oils near bearded dragons, ensure they are always diluted and kept at a safe distance from your pet’s enclosure. A well-ventilated space is essential to prevent the accumulation of any potentially harmful vapors. Avoid using diffusers directly in the same room unless it is specifically designed to minimize exposure. Consulting with a vet about any planned use of oils is a prudent step to ensure the well-being of your dragon.

What essential oils are safe for bearded dragons?

To substantiate the notion that essential oils are safe for bearded dragons, there is a paucity of scientific evidence accessible on the subject. Scientists have learned from experience that many essential oils are not safe for them to use.

While some products have been labelled as pet-friendly, there are no criteria that producers must follow to demonstrate that essential oil is safe for pets. Essential oils for your pet may or may not be effective, depending on the reason for using them and how you intend to utilise them.

Whatever a pet is exposed to will have a varied effect on each animal. The fact that your friend’s pet, your neighbour’s pet, or a pet on the internet had a positive reaction to essential oils does not mean it will work for your pet.

However, consumer evaluations suggest the following oils for reptiles:

Frankincense Oil

Frankincense oil may have the ability to combat cancer in bearded dragons, making it a strong natural cure for this condition. The fact that it’s antimicrobial implies that it can help your dragon stay healthy by boosting its immune system.

Lavender Oil

It’s a well-known fact that lavender oil has a relaxing impact on the human body. As it turns out, this herb may aid in the relaxation of your dragon and the reduction of its stress.

Allergies, burns, and wounds may all benefit from lavender oil’s healing properties. Lavender’s pleasant scent will also make your home smell great.

Wild Orange

Orange essential oil is quite safe and beneficial for dogs when used properly. Orange oil is invigorating for dogs, and it relieves skin irritations while also deodorising odours and repelling fleas. 

And a few more to name:

• Respiratory Blend (Diffused)
• Digestive Blend
• Grapefruit
• Helichrysum
• Lemon
• Protective Blend
• Cleansing Blend

Never apply undiluted essential oils to the skin. If any adverse effects develop, discontinue usage. As is the case with people and other animals, incremental doses of essential oil are frequently more effective than a single high quantity.

Essential oils can be applied topically to reptiles by diluting one drop of the oil with half a tablespoon of coconut or another reptile-safe carrier oil. Aromatherapy oils can be delivered to reptiles through the use of a diffuser, such as a cocoon-mist model. 

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FAQs