You have heard, read, and most likely, experienced the plethora of benefits of essential oils. You may be wondering now whether you could use essential oils for your kids as well. The answer is YES, but it is followed by a big BUT—you need to know how to use them properly.
Tips On Using Essential Oils On Kids
Essential oils are produced from the extract of plants—from their leaves, flowers, seeds, roots, or bark. They have strong odors and equally strong effects. So, they should be used carefully around kids.
Dilute Essential Oils
Whenever you intend to use essential oils on the skin—for topical application or for baths—always dilute them with carrier oils like VCO or virgin coconut oil or Argan oil. Direct skin contact with essential oils irritation because of its potency. Furthermore, diluting essential oils allows the skin to absorb them better.
The level of dilution varies based on your child’s age. It is not advised to use essential oils on newborns, but for babies aged 3 months to 2 years, dilute essential oils at 0.25%. For ages 2 to 6, 0.5% to 1% dilution is advised. While for ages 7 and up, you can use the dilution level for adults, which is at 2% to 2.5%. Consult our essential oil dilution guide for more details.
Do A Patch Test
Before using any essential oil on your child, try it first with a patch test. Observe how your child’s skin will react for 24 hours.
Don’t Ingest Essential Oils
Essential oils are best used through aromatherapy and topical application. They have not been cleared for ingestion for both kids and adults.
Use These Essential Oils For Kids
These essential oils are considered kid-friendly. Use them following proper dilution levels for kids.
Clary Sage
Marjoram
Basil
Essential Oils To Avoid
These essential oils are considered too strong and not safe for kids. Do not use them in any way for kids.
Clove
Garlic
Lemongrass
Melissa
Oregano
Wintergreen
Eucalyptus
Peppermint
Rosemary
Find your aromatherapy needs at Utama Spice.
Meta descriptions: Kids can benefit from the benefits of essential oils, but be sure to use them safely. Follow these tips for safely using essential oils on kids.
