Essential oil therapy, or aromatherapy, offers benefits for both children and adults. Below are some natural essential oil remedies that can be used to support the well-being of your kids.
For centuries, essential oils have been integral to nutritional practices worldwide. Derived naturally from plants, essential oil therapy, or aromatherapy, serves as a form of alternative medicine, offering significant benefits for both physical and mental well-being.
Aromatherapy has demonstrated effectiveness in reducing nausea, pain, anxiety, depression, menstrual problems, alopecia, and psoriasis. Additionally, it can instill a sense of calm, disinfect hands and feet, and alleviate congestion, particularly in children. While beneficial for both adults and kids, it’s important to note that the American Association of Naturopathic Physicians advises using essential oils on babies older than 4 months.
Here are some essential oil remedies to utilize as natural therapies for your children.
Baby Bath
Leverage the soothing properties of essential oils to promote better sleep for your babies. Consider adding a few drops of lavender or chamomile oil to the bathwater during their bedtime routine to help calm your little one.
Foot Massage
Children are often active throughout the day and may feel tired by bedtime. To help them unwind and ensure a restful night’s sleep, consider giving them a relaxing foot massage approximately 30 minutes after a meal. Create a massage oil blend by mixing 15-20 drops of lavender oil with ½ cup of virgin coconut oil and store it in a bottle. Massage their feet every night before bedtime to promote relaxation and encourage a peaceful sleep.
Bug Bite
Children frequently encounter bug bites, and traditional antiseptic solutions like Dettol may cause discomfort and reluctance due to itching. However, there’s an alternative: you can create a soothing balm specifically for bug bites.
Begin by boiling 1 tablespoon of organic beeswax along with 2 tablespoons of cocoa butter until they liquefy. Next, add 1 tablespoon of olive oil and lavender oil to the mixture, ensuring thorough mixing. Pour the blend into containers and allow it to cool and solidify. Apply this balm to the affected areas to alleviate pain and discomfort caused by bug bites.
Diaper Use and Fungal Infections
Tea tree oil, known for its natural antifungal and disinfectant properties, can effectively alleviate diaper rashes and fungal infections in children. Simply combine a few drops of tea tree oil with unscented oil to create a mixture. Apply this mixture gently to the affected areas to combat these infections.
Diffuser
At times, the potent artificial room fresheners commonly used in our homes can pose risks to children due to their strength. Opting for essential oils presents a safer alternative for households with kids. These oils are both natural and efficient, posing minimal harm to your child. Nevertheless, it’s essential to conduct a patch test with a small amount of the chosen oil to ensure it doesn’t cause any irritation or discomfort to your child.
Things to Remember
Not all essential oils are appropriate for children, and their careless use can indeed be harmful. Additionally, some oils may interact unfavorably with certain medications or treatments. It’s crucial to seek advice from a healthcare professional before proceeding with any of the aforementioned recommendations.