Can I Use Essential Oils for Kids? The answer is a yes; you can use essential oils for your kids. However, bear in mind that you should not apply them the same way you would on an adult. Essential oils for kids MUST be applied safely. Kids under five years old are much smaller than grown-ups, and their systems are still delicate.
That alone can have us concerned about our choices when it comes to household and body care products. We should always avoid surrounding our kids with harsh, concentrated products that can stress their immune systems.
Therefore, learning to use essential oils for kids can be crucial. Remember that essential oils are highly concentrated. And if you plan to use essential oils for your kids, it is vital to understand how to use them safely.
Babies and Very Young Children
When it comes to babies and very young children, it's not advisable to use concentrated essential oils. Even when applied in small amounts, it can still be overwhelming for kids and young children.
Instead of concentrated essential oils, turn to pure carrier oils and butter and hydrosols. In addition, you dilute using a carrier oil, or you can buy ready-to-use essential oils that are safe for kids on Oilypod.
Essential Oil Topical Dilution Ratios for Kids
The following range shows the recommended topical dilutions of essential oils for kids of different ages, according to Essential Oil Safety 2nd Edition.
Age | 0 to 3 months | 3 to 24 months | 2 to 6 year old |
|
15+ year old |
Recommended topical dilution | 0.1 - 0.2% | 0.25 - 0.5% | 1 - 2% | 1.5 - 3% | 2.5 - 5% |
The dilution ratios above are widely accepted among experts. However, there can be times when lower (or higher) dilution is appropriate or where oil should be avoided altogether for safety reasons. In any case, always consult your kid's paediatrician or a professional who's knowledgeable about essential oils.
Types of Essential Oils for Kids
1. Lavender
Lavender Essential Oil is well-known for its sedative effects, as well as its ability to relieve stress and anxiety while also encouraging sleep.
2. Roman Chamomile
Roman Chamomile Essential Oil is one of the few essential oils that most experts agree are particularly safe to use with children when properly diluted. It can help relax irritable babies and soothe a toddler's nasty temper tantrums when diffused.
3. Sweet Orange
Orange essential oil is one of the most commonly used aromatherapy essential oils. Orange Oil has a pleasant fragrance that can boost the scent of a stale or smoky space. Orange essential oil is suitable for both children and adults.
4. Frankincense
Frankincense essential oil is also used in respiratory and cough formulations as an expectorant.
5. Rosalina
Rosalina oil can help with respiratory problems and allergies, as well as soothing and uplifting moods.
Here are some ready-to-use essential oil blends from Oilypod that are safe for your kids.
1. Bee Happy Essential Oil
The Bee Happy essential oil blend has a serene scent of Lemon, Sweet Orange, Grapefruit, Lime, Douglas Fir, Mandarin, Geranium, Lavender, Damiana, Vetiver, and Vanilla that will surely keep your kid smiling.
2. Breathe In, Breathe Out Essential Oil
Breathe In, Breathe Out is a refreshing blend of Silver Fir, Lavender, Lemon, Frankincense, Sweet Marjoram, Lime, Roman Chamomile, Vetiver, Damiana, Ginger, Spearmint, and Vanilla.
3. Germ Ease Essential Oil
Germ Ease has cleansing properties with a blend of Frankincense, Lemon, Juniper Berry, Sweet Marjoram, Pink Pepper, Cedarwood, Sweet Orange, Petitgrain, Cedarwood, Damiana, Blue Tansy, and Vanilla.
4. Ouch Ease Essential
Ouch Ease is a soothing blend of Lavender, Juniper Berry, Tea Tree, Lime, German Chamomile, Roman Chamomile, Ylang Ylang, and Davana.
5. Rise & Shine Essential Oil
This blend of Lemon, Sweet Orange, Lime, Lavender, Cedarwood, Spearmint, Frankincense, Vetiver, and Osmanthus is the perfect pick-me-up if your kid is not a morning person.
6. Tummy Aid Essential
The Tummy Aid blend is formulated with Ginger, Lemon, Lavender, Petitgrain, Sweet Orange, Spearmint, Roman Chamomile, German Chamomile, and Vanilla to help soothe your kid when they have tummy troubles.
7. Calm Em Down Essential Oil
Calm ‘Em down is a peaceful blend of Douglas Fir, Petitgrain, Lavender, Sweet Orange, Vetiver, Damiana, and Vanilla.
In a Nutshell
Learn how and when to use these ready-to-use essential oils when you visit Oilypod. Remember to consult with your kids’ paediatrician before using essential oils on them, especially if they're on any medication. For more information, feel free to get in touch with us.