Exploring aromatherapy for children

When used properly, aromatherapy can help children manage their emotions, stay grounded and feel their best!

Imagine a world where the soothing scent of lavender helps your child drift into a peaceful slumber, a hint of peppermint might ease their tummy troubles and a whiff of lemon can sharpen their focus for that tricky maths homework. This is the enchanting world of aromatherapy – a holistic practice using natural plant extracts and essential oils to promote health and wellbeing. While often embraced by adults, aromatherapy holds a treasure trove of benefits for children too. Let’s explore how this natural remedy could support your child’s physical and emotional health, and the safest ways to use it.

Understanding aromatherapy

Aromatherapy involves using essential oils, derived from plants, to enhance physical and psychological wellbeing. These oils can be used in various ways, such as:

• Diffusers: dispersing essential oils into the air
• Aromatic spritzers: spraying a fine mist of diluted essential oils
• Inhalers: portable devices for direct inhalation
• Bathing salts: adding oils to bathwater
• Body oils, creams, or lotions: applying oils to the skin through massage or topical application
• Hot and cold compresses: using oils with compresses for targeted relief

What can it offer?

Aromatherapy has many benefits to offer little ones in their various challenges, from physical health to comfort and calm. Let’s dive in.

Relaxation and sleep

Children, like adults, experience stress and anxiety. Essential oils such as lavender, chamomile and cedarwood are renowned for their calming properties. Incorporating these oils into a bedtime routine will help children relax and drift off to sleep more easily. Just a few drops of lavender oil in a diffuser or a gentle massage with diluted chamomile oil creates a serene bedtime environment that invites restful sleep for your child.

Respiratory health

Battling colds, coughs or congestion is all too common for children. Essential oils like eucalyptus, tea tree and peppermint have antimicrobial and decongestant properties that can help clear kids’ airways and support easier breathing. Imagine the relief as your child breathes in the soothing vapour from a diffuser or enjoys a warm bath infused with eucalyptus oil, helping them breathe easier and feel more comfortable.

Focus and concentration

For school-aged children, maintaining focus and concentration can be tough. Essential oils such as rosemary, lemon and peppermint are known for their ability to stimulate the mind and improve concentration. Diffusing these oils in a study area will help your child stay alert and focused when tackling their homework, turning study time into a more productive and enjoyable experience.

Digestive comfort

Tummy troubles are common in children, whether due to overeating, gas or mild digestive issues. Essential oils like ginger and peppermint are known to alleviate that digestive discomfort. While more research is needed, many parents find that a gentle abdominal massage with a diluted blend of ginger oil soothes an upset stomach and promotes better digestion, bringing comfort to their little ones and easing any aches.

Immunity

Certain essential oils possess immune-boosting properties that may strengthen your child’s natural defences. Oils like lemon, tea tree and frankincense have antimicrobial and antiviral properties that support their young immune system. Diffusing these oils regularly, especially during cold and flu season, can help create a healthier environment and promote your child’s wellbeing as they avoid all the bugs that make their way around the school yard.

Balanced moods

Children often go through a wide range of emotions throughout the day, from happiness to frustration, and everything in between! Essential oils like orange, bergamot and ylang-ylang can help balance emotions and uplift mood. A diffuser blend of these oils is sure to create a cheerful atmosphere, helping children feel more positive and balanced.

Safety first

While aromatherapy offers numerous benefits, it’s vital to use essential oils safely with children. Here are the main areas to take into account.

Dilution is key

Essential oils are highly concentrated and should always be diluted with a carrier oil before applying to the skin. A safe dilution ratio for children is typically 1-2 drops of essential oil per tablespoon of carrier oil. This is a non-negotiable!

Patch testing

Before using any new essential oil, perform a patch test on your little one, to check for any allergic reactions or skin sensitivity.

Avoiding certain oils

Some essential oils are not suitable for young children, such as peppermint (for children under six) and eucalyptus (for children under ten). Always research or consult with a professional before using new oils.

Using safe methods

Diffusion is generally a safe method for children of all ages. Topical application should be used with caution and only with appropriate dilution and a patch test first.

Professional advice

If you have any concerns or if your child has a medical condition, consult with a healthcare provider or a certified aromatherapist before using essential oils. This extra precaution will give you the peace of mind to go ahead without any niggling worries.

Embracing aromatherapy

Incorporating aromatherapy into your child’s routine is a wonderful way to support their health and wellbeing naturally. With careful selection and proper usage, essential oils can offer a gentle, effective complement to your family’s wellness routines. So, embrace the magic of aromatherapy and let the natural scents guide your children towards a healthier, happier life.

Image Credit: ShutterStock