Essential oils can be a wonderful aid to the health and well-being of the whole family. However, when it comes to children, they require particular care and knowledge. This guide will help you safely introduce aromatherapy into your child’s life.
What are essential oils?
Essential oils are concentrated, volatile compounds extracted from plants. They are incredibly potent – a single drop can contain the essence of dozens of plants. That is precisely why, although natural, they require responsible use, particularly with children.
Golden safety rules
1. Age is of crucial importance
- 0–3 months : DO NOT use essential oils. Newborns’ skin is immature and too permeable.
- 3–24 months : Only selected, mild essential oils at a maximum dilution of 0, 5%
- 2–6 years : 1% dilution for regular use
- 6+ years : Dilution 1-2% depending on the application
2. ALWAYS dilute
Never apply undiluted oils to a child’s skin. Use high-quality carrier oils:
- Sweet almond oil
- Jojoba oil
- Fractionated coconut oil
- Olive oil (for small children)
3. Dilution table
| Age | Dilution | Number of drops per 30 ml of carrier oil |
|---|---|---|
| 3-24 months | 0, 5% | 3 drops |
| 2-6 years | 1% | 6 drops |
| 6+ years | 1-2% | 6–12 drops |
Safe essential oils for different age groups
Infants 3–12 months
- Lavender (Lavandula angustifolia) - calms, helps you fall asleep
- Roman chamomile - soothes skin irritation
- Mandarin oil - mild, pleasant scent
Children aged 1–6
All of the above plus:
- Tea tree - antiseptic properties (from 6 months)
- Cedar - aids breathing
- Sweet orange - improves mood
⚠️ WARNING: Essential oils, to be AVOIDED
In children under 30 months:
- Peppermint - may cause breathing difficulties and convulsions
- Eucalyptus - similar risks to peppermint
- Rosemary - too stimulating
For all children:
- Camphor
- Wintergreen
- Phenol-rich essential oils (oregano, thyme, cinnamon)
Safe methods of use
1. Diffusion (atomisation)
Safest method for children:
- 1–2 drops for infants (3–12 months)
- 2–3 drops for children aged 1–6 years
- Maximum 30–60 minutes
- Use the diffuser intermittently (30 mins on, 30 mins off)
2. Apply to the skin
- Always carry out an allergy test (a small amount on the forearm, wait 24 hours)
- Apply on the soles of the feet or along the spine
- Avoid the face, neck and intimate areas
3. Aromatherapy bath – IMPORTANT!
NEVER add essential oils directly to the water!
Essential oils do not dissolve in water and can burn the skin. First mix:
- 1-3 drops of essential oil
- 1 tablespoon of full-fat milk OR
- 1 tablespoon of sea salt with 1 teaspoon of carrier oil
Emergencies– what to do?
If the oil gets into the eye:
- DO NOT rinse with water!
- Apply vegetable oil to a cotton pad and gently wipe the eye
- Contact a doctor if necessary
If a child swallows the oil:
- DO NOT induce vomiting
- Give milk to drink
- Contact a poison control centre or a doctor immediately
- Take the bottle with you
Practical uses
Peaceful sleep
- Blend: 1 drop of lavender + 10 ml of almond oil
- Method: Gentle foot massage before bedtime
Colds (children aged 2+)
- Diffxc1336: 1 drop of tea tree + 1 drop of lavender
- Duration: 20 minutes in the child’s room
Colic (infants 3+ months)
- Blend withxc1336: 1 drop of Roman chamomile + 15 ml of carrier oil
- Method: Gently massage the tummy in a clockwise direction
What NOT to do – the most common mistakes
- ❌ Use on newborns under 3 months
- ❌ Application of undiluted oils
- ❌ Oral administration
- ❌ Use around the eyes, nose, ears
- ❌ Adding directly to the bath
- ❌ Using ‘adult’ oils on children
- ❌ Leaving bottles within children’s reach
Storage and quality
- Store oils in a lockable cupboard, out of
- Choose oils in dark bottles
- Check purity certificates
- Avoid oils with synthetic additives
When shouldconsult a doctor?
Always speak to your paediatrician before using essential oils, if your child:
- Has asthma or breathing difficulties
- Suffers from epilepsy
- Has allergies or atopic dermatitis
- Is on long-term medicationxc1018
- Is under 3 months old
Summary
Essential oils can be a valuable aid in natural baby care, but only if appropriate precautions are taken. Remember: less is more, especially when it comes to children.
Start slowly, observe your child’s reactions and always put safety first. If in doubt, consult a specialist.
The information contained in this article is for educational purposes only and does not replace medical advice. In the event of health problems, always consult a paediatrician.
Comments (0)
There are no comments for this article. Be the first one to leave a message!