05 May Can I use them on my children?

Absolutely! We enjoy them daily in our house but I use them with care and common sense. If you are nervous about using essential oils on the younger set, you simple need to keep in mind that you need to exercise good judgement and proper safety guidelines as with anything when it comes to children.

Kids are not tiny adults. Their bodies are smaller than an adult’s so they don’t need the same amount of oil as an adult would. A little bit goes a very long way. Adjust amounts accordingly. See the Recommended Ideal Amounts chart below.

Dilute! Kids’ skin is different from adult skin; it’s thinner and generally more sensitive. Even though most oils tend to be non-irritating on the skin (especially at the soles of the feet where the skin is thickest and that’s why we often recommend applying oils there), it’s a great idea to dilute essential oils in a good carrier oil before applying to children. You’ll still get the same benefits, you’re just adding extra moisture and pampering delicate young skin. Pre-diluting your oils are a great way to ensure safety and easy grab-and-go usage. There is a Quick Dilution Guide in one of the questions here about dosage and dilution so check there for that handy reference guide.

Diffusing is a great way to enjoy aromatherapy with your kids without the worry of skin reactions. Inhaled oils have long been studied for their ability to enhance feelings of relaxation, encouragement, excitement, focus and well-being. Additionally, diffused oils may support a healthier indoor environment, just make sure the room is large enough and well-ventilated and that you are not using too many drops in a small enclosed space.

The oils should be kept out of reach of children. Kids don’t understand their potency and they only know that the oils smell divine and so they may go overboard with them. Adults, not children, should also be doing the administering of oil applications.

Finally, I would say stay informed! There are MOUNTAINS of information about safe usage on many websites. Don’t be afraid to chat about oil usage with your family physician or paediatrician – medical professionals like having a holistic picture of their patient’s health situation and they have access to other medical literature that can help guide your decisions. Practice informed self-care and proactive healthcare for yourself and your family.

My daughter was introduced to the oils from a ripe age of 2.5 years old and she has a good understanding of what she can or can’t use now at 4.5 years old. It’s such a blessing to see her grow up with this knowledge and learning how to be cognisant of her own health while actively looking for natural ways to support her well-being. I love it!!