When it comes to using essential oils for babies and young children, please make sure that your child is at least 3 months old. Essential oils are too potent to be used alone, even for adults, and babies and young children tend to have skin more sensitive than adults. Therefore, always carry out a patch test by applying a very small amount on either the child’s arm or leg.
Dilute the essential oil with a carrier oil (sweet almond oil, jojoba oil, coconut oil etc). The dilution rate for children under 2 years old would be 0.5% dilution (1 drop of essential oil to 2 teaspoons of carrier oil) and 1% for children above 2 years old (3 drops of essential oil to 2 teaspoons of carrier oil). To diffuse, add a tiny amount in a vaporiser for an hour to see if there’s any reaction. Consult with a paediatrician for extra precaution. Below is a list of essential oils that are safe for babies and young children, all which can be applied via dilution with a carrier oil or be used as aromatherapy via a diffuser/vaporiser.
1. Carrot Seed
Carrot seed essential oil is, not to be confused with carrot oil (mixture of carrot roots immersed in carrier oils) that is typically used for cooking, is suitable to be used on children 6 months and older. It contains anti-fungal, anti-bacterial, and anti-inflammatory properties that are also beneficial for stubborn infections and wounds. Carrot seed oil also possesses soothing effects when applied with carrier oil on the skin.
2. Chamomile
Chamomile essential oil has been used since ancient Greece to treat insomnia, ideal for babies or even adults that are having trouble sleeping. Chamomile can be used for babies as young as 3 months old; this essential oil has natural soothing effects which is what helps to induce relaxation.
3. Cypress
Cypress essential oil possesses many health benefits such as antibacterial, antimicrobial and antifungal properties, and it is suitable to be used for children 6 months and older. The antimicrobial and antibacterial properties help with cleaning cuts and wounds; it is also useful in treating coughs.
4. Dill
Dill essential oil can be used for babies as young as 3 months old. It contains various benefits such as enzymes that stimulates better digestion and at the same time preventing gas formation in the intestines to manage indigestion and constipation problems if any, it helps boost immune systems, anti-inflammatory properties, it also has calming properties which can promote relaxation and sleep. An added bonus is that it helps mothers who are lactating promote milk lactation.
5. Lavender
No surprise that lavender essential oil would be on this list. This gentle and multi-purpose oil is suitable to be used for babies as young as 3 months old. Common uses for lavender essential oil is to induce sleep, promote relaxation with not only the mind but with the skin as well with its soothing properties. Lavender essential oil contains antibacterial and antifungal properties which helps to combat any fungal infections and helps to heal wounds.
6. Tea tree
Tea tree essential oil is suitable to be used for children 6 months and older. Its antibacterial and antifungal properties help to boost the immune system by fighting against infections; it can also relieve coughs and colds and at the same time, reduces inflammation. Tea tree is also known to be calming and can help to induce sleep. Furthermore, tea tree essential oil is a natural and antimicrobial air freshener, which not only purifies the environment but aids in clearing the respiratory tract for easier breathing.