LGR Holistic Wellness

The use of essential oils around children seems to be a confusing issue for many parents. However the concern is usually centered on the use with babies and very young children.

Some people seek advice from mothers who have extensively researched the subject and use it successfully on their own children, while others are guided by the health professionals in the field of aromatherapy.

Is Aromatherapy Safe for Children?

The general consensus is yes it is safe if done sensibly and care is taken to abide by a few simple but important rules. These rules include taking into account the age of the child and your choice of essential oils. The type and method of use of the diffuser is also important.

At What Age Is It Safe to Start Aromatherapy?

Some aromatherapists believe that essential oils should not be used on babies under twelve months old. Others say they are safe to use when baby reaches 6 months of age, providing it is used sparingly.

However all seem to agree that the only two essential oils that are safe to use around babies up to two years of age are lavender and chamomile, and that they should only be used occasionally.

A Healthy Immune System

Some essential oils have powerful anti-bacterial and anti-viral properties. If these oils are used on a continual basis around young children it can prevent them from building up a healthy immune system. Protection from dangerous germs is important but kids do need to have some contact with normal environmental pathogens to develop a natural resistance to them.

Aromatherapy Diffusion

The only safe way to use essential oils with younger children is by diffusing, it should never be used topically on an infant’s tender skin.

Types of Diffusers

Ultrasonic Diffusers

These are the type most recommended for use with children. The ratio of oil to water is usually 5 drops of essential oil to 4-6 ounces of water. These diffusers spray a fine mist and should be run in cycles of 30 to 60 minutes at a time.

There should be rest periods of 30 to 60 minutes between each diffusion cycle. Diffusion around children should be on a needs basis only. Routine use is not advisable unless the doses are extremely low, less than a few drops a day.

Nebulizing Diffusers

Undiluted essential oils are used in these diffusers so concentration is much higher. They disperse a drop or two of oil into the air in a typical cycle. Oil molecules are so fine they remain suspended in the air for several hours.

Nebulizing diffusers should be run for a 10 minute cycle two to three times a day for adults. However both the cycle time and the frequency of the cycles should be reduced for use with children. Ultrasonic diffusers are more suitable for use with children.

Allergies

When children are introduced to essential oils it is important to be aware of the possibility of allergies. Oils should be introduced one at a time so that an allergy can be pinpointed if there is an adverse reaction to the oil.

Cineole 1, 8

Because a chemical constituent called cineole 1, 8 and/or menthol is present in some essential oils they should not be used for young children. Menthol and cineole are known to stimulate cold receptors in the lungs.

This causes a reflex action in young children, and slows their breathing. This can result in significant respiratory difficulties.

Peppermint and eucalyptus essential oil are two of the oils containing cineole 1, 8 that experts warn should be avoided with young children. Cineole 1, 8 is also a high component in some other oils. If in doubt about its presence in an oil it is important to check with your supplier.

Choose Oils That Are Safe for Age

For children less than 2 years of age the only two essential oils considered safe to use are lavender and chamomile.

The List Grows with Age

After your child reaches the age of 2, the number of aromatherapy oils that are considered safe to use increases, and the list continues to increase as the child matures.

In Summary

What essential oil you use will depend on your reason for its use. To a large extent the guess work has been taken out of which essential oils are safe to use for your child after 2 years of age. Reputable aromatherapy dealers are now producing a range of kid safe essential oils and blends that make the choice much simpler.