Transcutaneous absorption of topically massaged oil in neonates
Solanki, K.; Matnani, M.; Kale, M.; Joshi, K.; Bavdekar, A.; Bhave, S.; Pandit, A.
Indian Pediatrics 42(10): 998-1005
2005
ISSN/ISBN: 0019-6061 PMID: 16269830 Document Number: 257581
Objective: To study the transcutaneous absorption of traditionally massaged oil in newborns and to specifically compare the effects of (i) essential fatty acid (EFA) rich safflower oil and (ii) saturated fat rich coconut oil, on fatty acid profiles of massaged babies. Design: A short term randomized controlled study. Setting: Tertiary care NICU of a large teaching hospital and a research laboratory of a University complex [India; date not given]. Methods: 120 study babies were randomly assigned to three oil groups (i) safflower oil (n=40) (ii) coconut oil (n=40) and (iii) no oil controls (n=40). In each group, babies were selected in three subsets as per their gestational ages, viz, (a) <34 weeks, (b) 34-37 weeks, (c) >37 weeks. 5 mL of the designated oil was massaged four times a day (every 6 h) for five days under controlled conditions of temperature and feeding. Pre and post oil massage samples of blood were analysed for triglycerides and fatty acid profiles using gas chromatography. Results: Post oil triglyceride values were significantly raised in both the oil groups and also in controls. However, the quantum of rise was significantly higher in oil groups as compared to controls (p<0.05). Fatty acid profiles (gas chromatography) showed significant rise in EFAs (linolenic acid and arachidonic acid) in safflower oil group and saturated fats in coconut oil group (p<0.05). Changes were more evident in term babies. There were no side effects associated with the massage. Conclusion: This study shows that topically applied oil can be absorbed in neonates and is probably available for nutritional purposes. The fatty acid constituents of the oil can influence the changes in the fatty acid profiles of the massaged babies.