Using essential oils at home can help your kids feel more relaxed, keep bugs away from your little ones, and improve their quality of sleep. But what essential oils are safe for kids? Here’s a roundup below.
1. Lavender
Lavender is known to be one of the gentlest and mildest essential oils, and is great to use on infants, toddlers, and older kids alike. A drop of lavender in your diffuser can help soothe your child to sleep, and using it topically can help ease the effects of colic as well.
For sunburn or simply outdoor aftercare, add a few drops of lavender in your aloe vera gel and rub generously onto inflamed skin. Your child’s skin will feel restored and refreshed.
2. Lemon
For children with allergies, a burst of citrus can help decongest runny noses and get rid of symptoms associated with allergic rhinitis. With young children, apply onto the bottoms of the feet. For older children, apply onto the spine 2 to 3 times a day.
Essential oils like lemon or orange have an energizing effect, and can also help reduce feelings of sluggishness. That said, diffusing 3 to 5 drops of lemon essential oil can help your kids start their day right.
3. Patchouli
The patchouli plant is an aromatic herb that helps improve skin and hair health, boosts mood levels, and improves digestion. Patchouli essential oil can be especially effective for children with mild skin conditions, as well as bug bites, heat rashes, and dryness.
Simply mix patchouli into baby lotion, and then apply onto your child’s skin. Patchouli has a sweet, spicy, and musky scent, and may be quite strong for your child—so one or two drops will do!
4. Vetiver
This perennial bunchgrass has an entire roster of benefits. It helps soothe body aches, and can help reduce the effects of anxiety and depression. Moreover, for children with mood disorders, vetiver can have a calm, grounding effect.
Vetiver is also known to help boost focus and concentration. For young children constantly exposed to the internet, vetiver can help improve attention span, support healthy energy levels, and reduce tension headaches.
Essential oils are great for everybody in the family, parents and children alike. Before applying any essential oil onto your child, do consult your healthcare provider, or pediatrician.
