Keep Calm: Soothing Scents for Kids and Babies
You love being a parent, but you don’t always love the tears and tantrums that your children can’t help having.
You have tons of different tactics for helping your little ones to calm down when they’re upset, but sometimes, reading a book or trying to distract them with a toy just doesn’t cut it.
Additionally, you’ve noticed that your infants and toddlers seem to be struggling to fall asleep lately — and it’s starting to impact your own ability to get some shut-eye.
You’ve heard about using essential oils for kids to help soothe and calm them down, and you’re definitely ready to give it a try.
So, which kid-safe essential oils will get the job done?
Read on to learn which scents will make your home a calmer place.
1. Chamomile
Are you in need of essential oils for toddler sleep?
If so, then we suggest that you start with chamomile.
It’s long been a natural remedy for insomnia in both children and adults, and is especially known for its soothing effects. Apply it a half an hour or so before bedtime for best results.
Is your infant struggling with colic?
If so, reach for chamomile essential oils to give them the relief they need.
2. Lavender
Lavender is one of the most popular essential oils of all time — and for good reason.
It smells absolutely heavenly, it can instantly relax you, and it’s incredibly affordable.
Plus, it has safe and natural sedative effects.
So, if your baby or toddler has been consistently struggling to fall and stay asleep, this is certainly worth a try. Like many of the other oils on this list, it’s also been shown to relieve some of the symptoms of colic.
If you want to try using lavender oil in a different way, spritz a few sprays of it around your child’s room. (Just avoid spraying in on the pillow, as the child could end up ingesting it in some way.)
3. Sandalwood
Especially if you use essential oils for baby massage, consider going with sandalwood.
It’s an excellent mood-booster and is even able to reduce the appearance of blemishes and other infant skin irritation.
Essential oil devotees suggest mixing a few drops with a carrier oil and applying it directly to your baby’s forehead for quick effects.
Feeling a bit nervous about applying sandalwood oil to your child’s sensitive skin?
If so, try putting this scented candle in their nursery instead. You’ll also notice beautiful notes of bergamot, clove, violet, and jasmine — so it’s something parent and baby can enjoy.
4. Mandarin
Mandarin is one of the most overlooked essential oils for kids, but it’s also one of the most effective.
Especially if your infant has sensitive skin, or if they don’t seem to respond well to the scent of lavender, opt for a mandarin essential oil instead.
Mandarin oil isn’t phototoxic, so it’s the least likely out of all the options listed here to cause any kind of rash or irritation.
It may even be able to help improve a toddler’s mood and relieve symptoms of anxiety. So, give it a try after your toddler has another truly epic meltdown.
5. Tea Tree Oil
In some cases, your baby may be a bit fussy because they’re dealing with a diaper rash, a bug bite, or even a fungal infection.
While you should certainly check in with your pediatrician if you suspect a serious issue, the right essential oils for babies can speed up the healing process.
Especially if your infant is recovering from a nasty infection or has any kind of a rash, reach for tea tree oil.
It’s a natural antifungal agent and baby-safe disinfectant. All you need to do is add a few drops of the oil to the baby lotion or oil you use. However, because it’s quite strong, avoid using tea tree oil until your baby is at least 6 months old.
Basic Tips For Essential Oils and Babies
Now that you know more about the natural options aromatherapy and essential oils offer, let’s talk about how to safely and properly use them for baby.
You should always dilute the oil — never apply it directly. Additionally, experts warn parents to avoid using any kind of essential oils on babies under three months of age.
A healthy dilution ratio for children (up to 6 years old) is .5% for every 1%.
You should always do a patch test on a dime-sized amount of your baby’s skin (the leg is best) and wait for a minimum of 24 hours to ensure it’s safe to use.
Coconut oil, vegetable oil, almond oil, and lotion are all common things to mix with your essential oils before applying them to the baby’s skin.
You can also put a diffuser with these essential oils in your baby’s nursery to promote calmness and encourage sleep.
Ready to Start Using Essential Oils for Kids?
As long as you follow the proper dosage guidelines and do a patch test first, using essential oils for kids is a safe and effective way to help them calm down and even fall asleep faster.
You may be so convinced and impressed by the results that you begin using essential oils in your own self-care routine.
Looking for more advice about how to respond to meltdowns? In need of additional natural remedies for your child?
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