Children and Essential Oils

by Angie's Organics November 21, 2020

Children can benefit from using essential oils in many ways. When they are used properly, they can positively impact a child’s physical, mental, and spiritual wellbeing. Before using essential oils with children, make sure to choose child safe oils and use them at the lowest possible dilution.

Dilution for children

We recommend indirect diffusion of Kidsafe essential oils at a low drop count for children under 5, and at 1% dilution for ages 5 and above. This is a wonderful way for them to benefit from being exposed to essential oils without being overwhelmed:

Under 5 - Diffusing before a child enters the room.
Under 5 -Applying diluted essential oil to a care taker or parent as they hold or cuddle the child.
Children 5 and above -using kid-safe oils at a 1% dilution (5-6 drops) to one ounce of carriers. Examples include Coconut oil, jojoba wax, and aloe vera gel.
Children 5 and above- Adding 5-8 drops of essential oil io a diffuser, running intermittently, making sure the child is not directly in the stream of vapor.
Children 5 and above -add 6-12 drops of your child's favorite essential oil to a personal inhaler.

Benefits of essential oil usage in children

Sleep

Stress and anxiety

Immune support

Focus

Encouraging respiratory support

Skin nurturing

Digestive support

Purifying the air and surfaces

Some of the Top choices for kid safe oils

Cedarwood atlas (Cedrus atlantica)

Frankincense (Boswellia carterii)

Lavender (Lavandula angustifolia)

Lemon (Citrus limon)

Orange, sweet (Citrus sinensis)

Scotch pine (Pinus sylvestris)

Essential oil and children's skin

Children have thinner skin then adults which places them at an increased risk for an adverse reaction. It is recommended to spot test a small area of unbroken skin with a diluted essential oil and wait 24 hours before applying routinely. Never apply to broken or diseased skin.

Use Caution when topically applying phototoxic oils, which are most commonly cold-pressed oils. these include:

Bergamot (Citrus bergamia)
Bitter orange (Citrus aurantifolia)
Lime (Citrus aurantifolia)
lemon (citrus lemon),
Grapefruit (Citrus paradisi)

These oils above can make the skin sensitive to UV rays. Causing some painful reactions, best to avoid sun for 24 hours after application or avoid all together if your child is a sun lover.

Some essential oils to avoid in children under 10 years old:

Eucalyptus globulus, Eucalyptus radiata, Eucalyptus smithii
Saro ( Cinnamosma fragrans)
Ravintsara (Cinnamomum camphora ct . 1,8- cineole
Rosemary ( Rosmarinus officinalis ct 1,8 –cineole
Peppermint (Mentha X piperita) UNDER 5

These oils above are highly effective at relieving respiratory issues but include natural components such as Menthol and 1,8 cineole that could be dangerous to children's breathing when applied near or on face. Some others include:

Wintergreen (Gaultheria fragrantissima)
Birch oil (Betula lenta)
Hyssop (Hyssopus officinalis)
Cajeput (Melaleuca leucadendron var .cajuputi )

Used thoughtfully and safely

When using essential oils, it is important to continue to educate yourself by reading the safety tabs and labels associated with the oils you choose.
When choosing quality oils, look for certified organic essential oils that have been GC/MS tested. it's an effective way to ensure that the oils you expose your child to are being placed to a higher standard.
Do not use undiluted on skin
Do not add neat to bath water (when using in a bath dilute properly)
Do not diffuse scent in air by heating with a direct flame, there are flammable
Do not ingest oils
Keep away from eyes, ears, and nose, make sure they do not touch bottles to avoid rubbing in eyes and nose.
Keep out of reach of children.
Discuss with a certified aromatherapist or healthcare provider

Some fun ways to encourage healthy habits

Aroma stick, cotton wick inhaler –infused with a personalized blend for kids to empower themselves to take charge of their day.
Activity-based diffusers can set the mood for whatever activity your child is taking part in, such as focus blends for homework, energizing scents for chores like cleaning their space, or soothing notes for restful sleep and relaxation.
Encourage hand washing – Letting your child decide the scent for their own home made liquid hand soap.
Helping with chores, such as letting them use do-it-yourself, nontoxic cleaners.

It is recommended consulting a Certified Aromatherapist and healthcare provider before using essential oils at any age, especially if anyone in your household has a specific health condition or concern. Look at your family's medical history to check for contraindications, and If any adverse reactions occur, stop use and seek medical attention. Essential oils should not be used to replace medical care.