Essential Oils to Calm Your Child
Essential oils and aromatherapy are lovely options for calming babies and children. These natural remedies can be especially helpful in creating a sense of peace and relaxation for children feeling anxious or overstimulated. However, using safe oils for young ones is essential, as their sensitivity—especially for children under two—requires extra care. Choosing age-appropriate oils and understanding proper dilution methods can make a significant difference in ensuring safety and effectiveness.
Essential oils have been used for centuries to support relaxation, reduce anxiety, and elevate mood. Their calming effects work through the limbic system in the brain, which controls emotions and stress responses. This natural approach can be particularly beneficial for children who respond well to comforting routines and familiar scents. Establishing a calming ritual with essential oils may help children develop self-soothing habits, especially at bedtime or during moments of stress.
Essential oils provide a natural, gentle way to promote calm and comfort for children. Parents can create a peaceful environment that fosters healthy emotional development by following proper safety guidelines, using age-appropriate dilutions, and incorporating essential oils into routines. When used consistently, essential oils can become a valuable part of a child’s daily routine, helping them manage stress and feel secure in their surroundings.
Choosing Safe Essential Oils for Children
When selecting oils for children, it’s important to choose gentle, safe, effective, and age-appropriate oils. Some essential oils are known for their mild and soothing properties, making them ideal for young children:
- Lavender: Known for its relaxing effects, lavender can help calm nerves and promote restful sleep. Its versatility makes it a popular choice for general relaxation.
- Roman Chamomile: With a gentle, apple-like scent, Roman chamomile can alleviate irritability and support emotional balance.
- Sweet Orange: This uplifting citrus oil can ease tension and lift the mood, especially for children who may feel down or anxious.
- Cedarwood: Known for its grounding properties, cedarwood can help promote deep, restful sleep and a sense of security.
Essential Oil Dilution for Babies and Children
Essential oils are highly concentrated, so proper dilution is key to safe application, especially for children under 12. Use a carrier oil like sweet almond or jojoba oil to dilute the essential oils effectively. Below is a guide to age-appropriate dilutions:
- Newborn to 6 months: 0–1 drop in 1 ounce of carrier oil
- 6 to 12 months: 1–2 drops in 1 ounce of carrier oil
- 1 to 4 years: 1–5 drops in 1 ounce of carrier oil
- 5 to 7 years: 3–6 drops in 1 ounce of carrier oil
- 8 to 12 years: 5–10 drops in 1 ounce of carrier oil
Calming Massage for Children
Massage is one of the best ways to apply essential oils and helps create a physical connection that can be very calming for children. Starting around three months of age, a gentle massage with diluted essential oils can help ease fussiness, support better sleep, and even relieve colic in infants.
Baby Massage Recipe:
- 3 ounces of sweet almond carrier oil
- 1 drop of Lavender essential oil
- 1 drop of Roman Chamomile essential oil
- 1 drop of Geranium essential oil
Blend these oils and store them in a dark glass bottle. Use before nap or bedtime to promote relaxation.
Calming and Uplifting Child Massage Oil:
- 1 ounce of sweet almond carrier oil
- 2 drops of Roman Chamomile essential oil
- 3 drops of Lavender essential oil
- 1 drop of Sweet Orange essential oil
Massage gently on the forehead, temples, neck, back, feet, and legs, especially during stressful days.
Soothing Baths for Children with Essential Oils
A warm bath with essential oils can provide a calming ritual to ease children into a restful state. You can use a teaspoon of the massage oil blends above in a tub of warm water or try this simple milk bath:
Calming Milk Bath Recipe:
- 1 drop of Lavender or Roman Chamomile essential oil
- 1½ tablespoons whole milk (to disperse the oil safely)
The milk helps dilute the oil and makes it safe for the skin. Adjust the number of drops based on the child’s age for a soothing experience that promotes sleep.
Diffusing Essential Oils for a Calm Environment
Diffusing essential oils is a gentle way to create a calming atmosphere for the entire family. Using a diffuser or a small bowl of steaming water (kept out of reach) with a few drops of essential oil can create a peaceful ambiance. Here are some oils that work well:
- Roman Chamomile: Helps lull children to sleep.
- Lavender: Ideal for restlessness and minor sickness due to its soothing, antimicrobial properties.
- Dill: Useful for calming digestive issues or colic.
- Sweet Orange: Uplifts mood and can create a cheerful environment.
Creating a Calming Routine with Essential Oils
Incorporating essential oils into a regular bedtime or evening routine can help children relax and prepare them for a good night’s sleep. Here’s a sample calming routine:
- Pre-Bedtime Diffusion: About 30 minutes before bed, diffuse a blend of lavender and Roman chamomile in the bedroom.
- Warm Bath: A warm bath with a diluted essential oil blend tailored to the child’s age can deepen relaxation.
- Massage: A gentle massage with calming oils reinforces relaxation and creates a comforting routine.
Additional Calming Methods Using Essential Oils
If you’re looking to introduce other ways to use essential oils, try these ideas:
- Aromatherapy Plush Toys: Some toys can hold a drop of essential oil, allowing the child to carry a comforting scent.
- Pillow Mists: Mix a few drops of calming oil, such as lavender, in distilled water to create a gentle pillow mist.
- Personal Inhalers: For older children, personal inhalers with safe essential oils can provide comfort during stressful moments.
Essential Oil Blends for Different Needs
Here are some customized blends to support your child’s various needs:
- Sleep Support: 2 drops lavender, 2 drops Roman chamomile, 1 drop cedarwood
- Anxiety Relief: 1 drop lavender, 1 drop sweet orange, 1 drop Roman chamomile
- Digestive Support: 1 drop dill, 1 drop Roman chamomile, 1 drop lavender (apply in a carrier oil for gentle stomach massage)
Safety Tips and Precautions
While essential oils can be beneficial, they must be used carefully:
- Avoid Certain Oils: Peppermint and eucalyptus are not recommended for young children due to respiratory risks.
- Use Glass Containers: Store essential oils in dark glass bottles to preserve their potency.
- Monitor for Allergies: Test for any reactions, such as redness or itching.
- Limit Sun Exposure: Citrus oils may increase sensitivity to sunlight, so avoid outdoor activities after application.
