Aromatherapy oils are concentrated essences diluted from plants and flowers which contain scent. They are more than just perfume as they have many therapeutic properties and children tend to respond well to them. Here are some suggestions for oils to start a home aromatherapy kit to deal with complaints common to children. For babies, make sure you have your medical practitioner’s permission to use oils. Please make sure also that you are using the highest quality essential oils for children.
• Lavender
Soothing qualities
Lavender contains an aroma which is soothing and calming and is almost universally adored by children and adults. It can be used to quiet a fussy child and to help a child sleep. Dilute a few drops of lavender in a carrier oil such as jojoba or sweet almond and give the child a light massage after a warm bath before sleep. The child will sleep like a baby! You might also sprinkle a drop of oil on the pillow case or dilute a few drops in a small amount of carrier oil and rub into the soles of the feet before bed.
Burns
Rene-Maurice Gattefosse was a Frenchman born into a family of perfumers who later went on to become a researcher whose work has proven invaluable to the industry. He found that lavender was very effective in treating burns. If the injury is a shallow burn, you may use a few drops of lavender on the wound to promote faster healing. If it is a more serious burn and is an open wound, seek out medical assistance.
• Peppermint
Digestive distress
The essential oil of Menta Piperita is most commonly used for nausea and indigestion. If a child is suffering from a sore tummy, dilute a few drops of the oils in a small amount of jojoba or sweet almond oil and rub on the child’s stomach.
Alertness
An older child may benefit from a similar mixture rubbed into the nape of the neck before exams at school; it will keep him alert throughout the day. It can also be helpful for sore muscles after sports, in which case you should use it as massage oil.
• Eucalyptus
Respiratory system
Eucalyptus or Eucalyptus Globulus is a wonderful oil to have on hand for children who are prone to colds and stuffy noses. Many of us remember the smell of Vick’s which was rubbed on our chests when we were sick. You can do the same with eucalyptus oil, just make sure to dilute it in carrier oil and use as a massage to rub gently on the chest. However for a cold, don’t apply eucalyptus oil, salve or chest rub to the face or nose of a child under the age of two. It can also be inhaled by placing a few drops in a basin of hot water and covering the child’s head with a towel. It is great for clearing the sinuses.
Skin Care
Eucalyptus oil has been used to treat arthritis, boils and sores. The oil is also used in some insect repellents, and mixed with a little carrier oil you may be able to use eucalyptus on the skin to repel ticks and mosquitoes.
Three essential oils that are multipurpose are a good way to begin to build a home aromatherapy kit for children. You will find that they are very receptive to the scents and enjoy using them. Please make sure that young children do not have access to the oils as some can be poisonous if ingested.
Disclaimer
The information contained in this article is for educational purposes only and should not be used for diagnosis or to guide treatment without the opinion of a health professional. Any reader who is concerned about his or her health should contact a doctor for advice.
Source
Aromatherapy. Top That Pub Plc, 2007. Print.
Alexandra Clark - Alexandra Clark has always been interested in alternative health and healing. She transferred from a career as a translator of Spanish and ...
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