
Aromatherapy is the use of plant essences, also known as essential oils, to combat physical ailments and promote emotional well-being. There are several safe essential oils that can provide relief from common ailments in children such as restlessness, colic, cold and cough or insomnia.
Before we discuss further on aromatherapy and common ailments for children, we will need to first understand what essential oils are safe to use in aromatherapy and common ailments for children.
Roman Chamomile, Lemon , Rose, Marjoram, Eucalyptus, Mandarin, Sweet orange, Jasmine, Geranium, Neroli , Tea tree, Sandalwood, and Lavender are essential oils that can be used safely with children. However, children with epilepsy should not come in contact with stimulating essential oils. Always research the oil of choice thoroughly before using with your infant or child and ask advice from a qualified practitioner.
It is important to understand the difference between pure, natural essential oils that have therapeutic properties and fragrance oils or other synthetic oils that have no healing properties at all and can irritate young skin.
Use only half or one-third of the adult dose, or a 1-percent dilution (five or six drops of essential oil per ounce of carrier oil), and don't forget that citruses may irritate the skin. It’s not recommended to directly apply diluted essential oils on children under 5 years old. Inhalation or using the candle lamp or warmer for 10 minutes would be very safe.
If you want to make an aromatherapy bath or massage you can replace the essential oils with floral water or hydrosol.
As the child grows older, there are more oils that become appropriate for use.
Carrier oils that are used in aromatherapy and common ailments for children would be Sweet Almond oil which is generally regarded as the safest and best overall carrier oil for use with babies and children. Apricot kernel oil is also considered extremely safe with children over 6 years old. Jojoba oil can be added at about 10 % concentration for any blend, it has a soothing effect on the skin and is good for hair.
Some recipes for aromatherapy and common ailments for children are:
A loving nurturing touch of massage:
Massage on the forehead and temples, neck, back and legs.
Tummy-Rub Oil
Most digestive problems are reduced by a simple tummy massage using one of the oils. Tummy-Rub Oil can be formulated as follows:
Mix together and massage the tummy gently.
Burns
Hold the affected area under running cold water then apply a cold compress to which you have added two drops of pure essential oil of lavender.
Coughs and colds massage:
These oils will help to fight the infection, expel the mucus, relieve bronchial spasm and induce relaxation. Massage the chest, throat and upper back.
Diarrhoea massage
Diarrhoea may be caused by an infection, an allergy to food, certain drugs or by stress. It is vital to replace lost fluid to prevent dehydration. Avoid food but drink as much liquid as possible. If the Diarrhoea persists then consult a medically qualified practitioner.
A massage blend may be gently rubbed on the abdomen and compresses may be applied to help to alleviate pain.
Minor wounds
First, clean the area thoroughly to prevent any infection. Add one drop of tea tree and one drop of lavender to a hot water. Use it to clean the wound. Place one drop of lavender essential oils on a sticking plaster. This will make the healing process faster.
Fever
Place the essential oils in warm water. Use it to compress the forehead or wrap it around the feet.
Please note that all the recipes are only for children from 5 to 12 years old.
This is only a brief overview of aromatherapy and common ailments for children. If you would like to know more, there are many reputed sources for your needs.
"Aromatherapy for the Healthy Child" by Valerie Ann Woorwood.
“Aromatherapy For Babies And Children” by Shirley Price
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The essential oils mentioned within this article are recognized as safe for most individuals – if you or your child are recognized as having a specific illness, and/or are under a doctor's regular care, please consult an appropriate practitioner before proceeding.
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