Which Essential Oils for Children Should You Have?
There are two herbs / essential oils for children that you should have in your house.
- Chamomile is an herb that has a calming effect and provides relaxation and even promotes sleepiness in children (and parents too).
Chamomile has been used for centuries and may be used in tea form, massage oil, or even in a bath given before bedtime.
When using herbs, or essential oils, it 's wise to be aware of possible skin sensitivities. Chamomile is one of the safest and gentlest herbs and has been used with infants as a natural remedy.
- Lavender is another of the herbs / essential oils that promote calmness in children.
Massages using lavender oil helps with sleepiness. A single drop of Lavender or Camomile mixed well with a few teaspoons of almond soya or other bland oil, or to a cup of full milk (not skimmed) and added to the bath will help ease minor discomforts and aid in restful sleep.
A drop of Lavender on the pillowcase or pajamas will also aid in a good nights sleep.
When coughs and colds loom I have used eucalyptus on the pillow to help with breathing at night. Used oil burners or sprayed the bedroom with blends of Thyme, Frankincense and Eucalyptus.
For chesty coughs I have frequently made up a massage mix of 10ml of almond oil (or some other thicker base oil), 2 drops of Benzoin, 1 drop of Roman Chamomile and 1 drop of Frankincense. Normally any chesty coughs that have been present have virtually disappeared overnight, and breathing has become normalized, though I do continue for a couple more days, giving a massage on the chest and back both in the morning and at bedtime.
When you plan to add Lavender and Chamomile, or any essential oil, to a base oil for a massage, or add it to your child’s bath, it is recommended that you perform a sensitivity test on your child, at least 14 hours before using it. Place ½ to a single drop behind your child’s neck, at the hairline, and check for any skin reactions. If after fourteen hours your child is fine, it is safe to assume that your child doesn’t have any allergies to either Chamomile or Lavender and you may continue to use the oils as planned.
Remember to always read the labels on all essential oils that you purchase and heed their safety warnings. If you want to use an herb in edible form, it is safest to purchase the herb already packaged then using essential oils for edible purposes with children. When you are new to Aromatherapy, it is better to err on the side of caution, especially when it comes to your precious little ones.
Besides lavender and, chamomile, rose, benzoin and mandarin are good oils that can be used safely with your children.
As always though, if you have any questions as to the use of essential oils, be sure consult a knowledgeable source, such as a qualified aromatherapist.
