I know what you’re thinking. Essential oils for kids? Isn’t that dangerous? As a parent, I understand your concern. But here’s the thing – when used safely and correctly, essential oils can promote physical, mental, and emotional wellbeing in children. In fact, many pediatricians and natural health practitioners recommend essential oils as a natural alternative to conventional medicine for common childhood ailments like colic, sleep issues, and congestion.
So why are essential oils so effective for kids? Well, it all comes down to the therapeutic benefits of the oils themselves. Lavender oil, for example, is known for its calming properties and can aid in deep sleep. Chamomile oil is a natural anti-inflammatory and can soothe and reduce colic symptoms. And eucalyptus oil is a powerful decongestant and can relieve respiratory issues.
But it’s important to note that not all essential oils are safe for children, and even safe oils should be used with caution and in moderation. In this article, we will explore the benefits and uses of essential oils for kids, as well as safety precautions and how to use them effectively.
Key Takeaways
- Essential oils can promote physical, mental, and emotional wellbeing in children when used safely and correctly.
- Not all essential oils are safe for children, and even safe oils should be used with caution and in moderation.
- Essential oils can be used for calming tantrums, enhancing focus and concentration, and relieving common childhood ailments.
- Volant essential oils are recommended for children’s wellbeing, with a TrustScore of 4.7 and over 1000 reviews, and a subscription service for easy access.
Benefits and Uses
I love using essential oils for my kids because they provide so many benefits and uses. For instance, lavender oil is great for reducing cortisol levels and promoting deep sleep. Chamomile oils have natural soothing and hypnotic effects, aiding sleep and reducing colic symptoms. Eucalyptus oil is perfect for relieving congestion while peppermint oil shouldn’t be used for children under three. Citrus oils are also great for balancing mood and calming overstimulated children.
Using essential oils for homework is another great way to promote wellbeing in children. Essential oils like rosemary, lemon, and peppermint have been found to enhance focus, concentration, and memory. Additionally, essential oils can be used for calming tantrums. Oils like lavender, chamomile, and frankincense can be used to soothe and relax children during meltdowns.
It’s important to note that essential oils should be diluted and patch tested before use and should always be kept out of reach of children.
Safety and Precautions
Parents need to be aware of the potential risks and precautions when using aromatherapy for their children. While essential oils can have many benefits for kids, it’s important to prioritize their safety. Child appropriate oils should always be used, and dilution ratios need to be followed to prevent skin irritation and other adverse reactions.
To ensure the safe use of essential oils, it’s crucial to dilute them properly. The dilution ratio will depend on the age and size of the child, as well as the specific oil being used. As a general rule, a 1% dilution is appropriate for babies and young children, while a 2% dilution can be used for older children. This means that for every 1 teaspoon of carrier oil, only 1-2 drops of essential oil should be added. Additionally, certain oils should be avoided altogether, such as peppermint oil for children under three, and some oils may require special precautions or considerations. By being mindful of these safety guidelines, parents can confidently use essential oils to promote their child’s wellbeing.
| Child’s Age | Amount of Carrier Oil | Amount of Essential Oil |
|---|---|---|
| 0-6 months | 1 teaspoon | 1 drop |
| 6-24 months | 1 teaspoon | 2 drops |
| 2-6 years | 1 tablespoon | 6-12 drops |
| 6-12 years | 2 tablespoons | 12-24 drops |
| 12+ years | 3 tablespoons | 24-30 drops |
Volant Essential Oils
Volant essential oils are my go-to for my children’s wellbeing. With a TrustScore of 4.7 and over 1000 reviews, it’s clear that many others trust and love their products as well.
In fact, I came across a customer review that raved about their Sleep blend, claiming that it helped their child fall asleep faster and stay asleep longer. As a parent, there’s nothing more important than ensuring my child gets the rest they need, so I knew I had to give it a try. And I’m happy to say that it worked wonders for my child too.
One of the things I love about Volant is their subscription service, which makes it easy to ensure that I always have their essential oils on hand. It’s one less thing for me to worry about, and I always appreciate when companies make things more convenient for me as a busy parent.
Plus, reading through other customer reviews, it’s clear that Volant has helped many families in a variety of ways. From reducing stress and anxiety to promoting focus and creativity, their oils seem to have a positive impact on people of all ages.
Frequently Asked Questions
Are there any essential oils that should never be used with children?
Yes, there are certain toxic essential oils for kids that should never be used. It’s important to always prioritize the safety of children when using essential oils.
Peppermint oil, for example, shouldn’t be used for children under three years old as it can cause respiratory distress. Additionally, wintergreen, camphor, and eucalyptus oils shouldn’t be used on or near the face of children due to the risk of respiratory issues.
Safe essential oils for kids include lavender, chamomile, and sweet orange oils, which have natural soothing and calming effects. It’s also important to dilute essential oils with a carrier oil and perform a patch test before use.
Always consult with a healthcare professional before using essential oils on children.
How can essential oils be incorporated into a child’s daily routine?
Incorporating essential oils into a child’s daily routine can be both enjoyable and beneficial. DIY recipes for age-appropriate blends can be easily found online or created with a little experimentation.
For example, lavender oil can be added to a bath before bedtime to promote relaxation and deep sleep. Sweet orange oil can be diffused in the morning to energize and uplift. It’s important to use pure, organic oils and dilute them properly before use.
Aromatherapy inhalers can also be used as a safe alternative to diffusing oils. With a little research and caution, essential oils can be a great addition to a child’s daily routine.
Can essential oils be used to treat specific health conditions in children, such as ADHD or anxiety?
I’ve researched the use of essential oils for ADHD and child anxiety and found that while some oils may show promise, it’s important to use them safely and with caution.
Essential oils such as lavender, vetiver, and frankincense have been studied for their calming effects on children with ADHD, but more research is needed to determine their effectiveness.
For child anxiety, oils like lavender, chamomile, and bergamot may help promote relaxation, but it’s important to dilute them properly and patch test before use.
It’s also recommended to consult with a healthcare professional before using essential oils as a treatment for specific health conditions in children.
Overall, while essential oils may provide some benefits, it’s crucial to prioritize safety and proper usage.
What is the difference between a carrier oil and an essential oil?
When it comes to essential oils, it’s important to know the difference between a carrier oil and an essential oil.
A carrier oil is used to dilute essential oils and make them safe for topical use, as essential oils are highly concentrated and can cause skin irritation if applied directly.
On the other hand, essential oils offer various therapeutic benefits, such as reducing stress, promoting relaxation, and relieving congestion.
While carrier oils serve a practical purpose, essential oils are the star of the show when it comes to aromatherapy. So, think of carrier oils as the supporting cast, while essential oils take center stage.
Are there any potential side effects or risks associated with using essential oils on children?
When it comes to using essential oils on children, there are potential risks to consider. It’s important to follow proper dosage guidelines and dilute oils properly with a carrier oil to avoid skin irritation or allergic reactions. Some oils, like peppermint, should not be used on children under three years old.
Additionally, essential oils should never be ingested and should be kept out of reach of children. It’s important to only use pure, organic oils that haven’t been premixed with alcohol. Patch testing should also be done before applying any oil to a child’s skin. While essential oils can have many therapeutic benefits, it’s important to use them safely and with caution.
With a background in holistic wellness, I bring a unique perspective to my writing. I strive to provide informative and engaging content that educates our readers about the various aspects of aromatherapy. From the science behind essential oils to practical tips on blending and diffusing, my aim is to empower individuals to make the most of their aromatherapy experience.
