509.00 - Essential Oils, Herbs or Supplements

In regards, to natural remedies and herbal supplements, and essential oils: Please see the declaratory ruling No. 81 from the Iowa Board of Nursing in the Medication Administration Manual (Page 55) located on the Iowa Department of Education website at: https://www.educateiowa.gov/pk-12/learner-supports/school-nurse.

 

IBON Ruling No. 81  (pg 55 Medication Administration Manual) “When a nurse is unable to determine the appropriateness, safety, possible side effects, or toxic effects of a drug; the appropriate dose for a specific age, weight, and body surface are, and treatment of overdose, the nurse may not administer the drug.  To do so would not be in compliance with 655 IA6.2(5).” Kids may be: immune-compromised, take numerous medications, have allergies, chemical sensitivities, respiratory issues and asthma.

Even with a doctor prescription, the nurse maintains accountability by using guidance in the Nurse Practice Act to notify parent/guardian and doctor and document that the licensed nurse using professional judgment will not administer the supplement or oil because the nurse cannot determine the appropriateness, safety, side effects or toxic effects of non-FDA approved supplement or oil.”

If the medical regimen prescribed by the physician is not carried out, based on the registered nurse’s professional judgment, accountability shall include but need not be limited to the following:

(1) Timely notification of the physician who prescribed the medical regimen that the order(s) was not executed and reason(s) for same.

(2) Documentation on the medical record that the physician was notified and reason(s) for not executing the order(s).

 

If a product is intended for therapeutic use, such as treating or preventing disease, or to affect the structure or function of the body, it’s a drug. 

Oils are not approved or regulated by the Food and Drug Administration.

Nurses and other school officials will not administer the oils, along with creams, or lotions, or supplements.

 

The Board strives to honor families' private medical decisions while ensuring a learning environment free of disruption. To accomplish these goals, the district restricts the administration of medication, during school hours unless administration cannot reasonably be accomplished outside of school hours. Parents should communicate with their local education agency about school procedures to administer their child’s herbal supplements or natural remedies independently.

 

Approved: September 21, 2026

Reviewed: September 21, 2026

Revised: September 21, 2026