It’s no secret that essential oils provide some major therapeutic benefits. Not only physically, but emotionally as well. If you are a lover of essential Naturally, you want to share this love with the newest addition to your family.
While your baby can reap the benefits of these ancient oils, there are some things you need to know before getting them started. Knowing which essential oils that are safe babies is of most importance before starting their journey.
INTRODUCING BABIES TO ESSENTIAL OILS:
Diluting Essential Oils:
Diluting essential oils is an absolute must when using on infants. Babies have sensitive skin and because essential oils are concentrated, you must dilute with a carrier oil before application.
Try a combination of diluting 1 drop of essential oil per 1 tablespoon of carrier oil such as coconut, olive, or almond oil.
Perform a Patch Test:
When first introducing essential oils to your baby or even a new fragrance, you will want to perform a patch test first. Even after dilution, if your baby is allergic to a certain oil, this can cause inflammation, breakouts, and skin irritation.
- Only test one essential per day. If an allergic reaction does occur, you can pinpoint what oil it came from.
- Use a tiny portion of diluted essential oil on a small area on the arm or leg
- Wait at least 24 hours to make sure of no reaction
- If there is no reaction, you are safe to continue using that particular essential oil
USING ESSENTIAL OILS FOR YOUR BABY
Essential oils should never be ingested by infants or children. Steer clear of adding essential oils to babies baths for risk of bath water getting into their mouths. Never use oils around the nose.
DIFFUSING
Use essential oils as a replacement for store bought air fresheners. Using a water-based vaporizer is also safer than using a candle diffuser to get that desired fragrance and won’t risk any irritation to the skin. We recommend testing the desired scent for up to an hour to ensure that baby is not sensitive to that particular fragrance.
SPRITZ
Before bed or nap time, spritz a diluted essential oil around your baby’s room for calming effects. Careful to not apply to blankets or pillows so there is no risk of ingestion.
ESSENTIAL OILS THAT ARE SAFE FOR BABIES
Now that we know a little bit more about safely introducing our little ones to essential oils, let’s now talk about what scents are best suited for them. As with anything, use properly and in moderation. Pay attention to the latin names as there are some variations in certain oils.
German (Matricaria) and Roman (Chamaemelum) Chamomile:
If your baby is having trouble sleeping, then this gentle essential oil is going to be your new best friend. Chamomile is naturally calming and helps reduce anxiety. Your baby will drift away to sleep in no time with a little chamomile massage. Just as lavender does, chamomile is also used as an aid to relieve pesky colic symptoms.
Lavender (Lavandula Angustifolia):
Another well known option for inducing soothing effects before a nap or bedtime is of course, Lavender. If your baby gets a bug bite, not to worry. Just add some lavender (diluted of course) to the bite and see instant itchiness relief.
Eucalyptus (Ecalpytus Radiata)
Eucalyptus is a common go to essential oil used to relieve respiratory issues. Pay extra close attention to the latin name for this oil. Eucalyptus globulusis is the more commonly know eucalyptus oil and is not safe for infants as it is very strong.
Dill (Anethum Sowa)
If you little one is dealing with indigestion symptoms then you should go grab your diluted dill and see the benefits take place. Dill is commonly used to help reduce involuntary muscle spasms which helps the digestive function.
Mandarin (Citrus Reticulata)
Oh the sweet smell of mandarin. Like lavender, mandarin has excellent calming attributes. This is an excellent substitute if your baby is irritated by lavender.
Tea Tree (Melaleuca Alternifolia)
Tea tree can be used to treat fungal infections and irritating diaper rash. Very important to keep in mind that tea tree can be a bit harsh on the sensitive skin of babies and should not be used on little ones younger than 6 months. As always perform a patch test before usage.
Now that you have you done a bit of research, you can go on to explore the wonderful world of essential oils with your most prized possession!