Is it safe to use essential oils on my child?

Essential oils are highly concentrated oils taken from plants’ leaves, blossoms, bark, or roots. They are referred to as ‘essential’ because they contain the ‘essence’ of the plant from which they were extracted.

How to Use Essential Oils Safely

Essential oils are potent and concentrated, and if used inappropriately, they can cause discomfort to the skin. They also have some therapeutic properties and can exacerbate health problems. Here are some general guidelines for using them safely:

• Never give your child essential oils orally.
• Essential oils should never be used undiluted.
• Avoid sensitive areas like your child’s eyes and mucous membranes.
• Use some oils with caution (specifically rosemary, basil, and peppermint).
• Although it’s unlikely to cause harm, it’s generally recommended that you avoid essential oils in the first 3 months of pregnancy and that you use them with caution after that. Some oils should be avoided completely. If you do wish to use essential oils while pregnant it would be a good idea to consult with an aromatherapist. The good news is that there are some essential oils that can be used quite successfully during labour and birth, something worth looking into.
• Avoid essential oils in babies younger than six weeks.
• Use weaker solutions for babies over six weeks, children.
• Make sure that you seal your bottles well after use and that you store them in a cool, dark place.

Best essential oils for children

Some oils are known as ‘children’s oils’ because they’re gentle and effective for treating common health problems in children:

• Lavender: for restlessness, crying, insomnia, and colic; good first-aid oil for minor burn wounds, grazes, and insect bites.
• Mandarin: for hyperactivity, restlessness, and tummy ache.
• Neroli: colic, fretfulness, and insomnia.
• Orange: a similar oil to neroli, but more invigorating.
• Roman chamomile: colic, nappy rash, eczema, teething, and irritability.
• Tea tree: infectious skin conditions and fungal infections, asthma, colds, flu, bronchitis, and to stimulate the immune system.
• Benzoin: tight congested chest.
• Eucalyptus: respiratory congestions (this oil is best used in a burner, humidifier, or on bedding as it’s very strong).

A word on carrier oils

“Carrier oils” are vegetable oils into which you dilute your essential oils to produce a blended oil. Experts recommend parents use good quality, cold-pressed oils, such as.

• Grapeseed oil is a fine, smooth oil that is rich and nourishing.
• Jojoba oil is gentle and soothing, and a good choice for sensitive skin.
• Sweet Almond oil is light, odourless and easily absorbed – one of the most popular oils for all skin types.