BENEFITS AND HAZARDS OF ESSENTIAL OILS FOR CHILDREN

May 15, 2020 /

Written by Caroline Meyer

Essential oils have been around for millennia and have gained popularity again within the mainstream during the last couple of decades.  There is a ton of information and misinformation on the internet when it comes to the use of essential oils.  

What Are Essential Oils? 

Essential oils are compounds that have been extracted from potentially beneficial plants. These oils usually have a strong scent and contain higher levels of active ingredients than the plants they are extracted from. Sometimes the extract is mixed with a carrier oil, and is then no longer considered to be a pure essential oil. Essential oils are commonly used in the cosmetic and make up industry, as well as for aromatherapy. 

Many people have started making use of essential oils for the benefits that have been highlighted. If you are considering using them for your children, here are some benefits and hazards you need to be aware of. 

Benefits: 

Aromatherapy can be described as the use of essential oils to help you relax and lift your mood. If they are used carefully and correctly, some essential oils are known to help children sleep and feel calmer. Other essential oils can also be used to reduce nausea, discomfort and pain. Some clinical studies have proved that essential oils are effective in alleviating many symptoms. 

Here are some of the most effective essential oils and what they can be used for: 

  • Eucalyptus oil: disinfectant, nasal decongestant 
  • Clove oil: toothaches 
  • Tea Tree oil: antifungal, antibacterial, antiviral properties 
  • Peppermint: digestive disorders 
  • Lavender: anxiety, insomnia, restlessness 
  • Chamomile: insomnia and restlessness 

If these oils are used in a diffuser or diluted and used in a topical, they could be beneficial in relieving children’s symptoms. However, there are still some risks that come with making use of these oils. It is important that you do research and consult a doctor before using essential oils with your little ones. 

Hazards: 

  • People have been led to believe that because essential oils are natural, they are safe to consume, but they are not. Consuming even the smallest amount of some essential oils can cause poisoning. 
  • Essential oils are very strong, using them without dilution on sensitive skin can cause irritation or burns. In some cases, people can develop allergic reactions and rashes. 
  • Burning essential oils in a diffuser can induce an asthma attack for people who have asthma. 
  • Inhaling too much of the substance can cause headaches. 

How to React After Exposure: 

Ingestion: Rinse your mouth out immediately and call a hospital. Don’t induce vomiting or drink any liquids unless advised to do so by a medical advisor. 

Eyes: Rinse the eyes under running water as quickly as possible. Let the water flow from the inner part of the eye, closest to the nose, and outwards. Do this for 15 minutes. If symptoms persist, seek medical attention. 

Skin: Remove any clothing with the substance on it. Clean the skin with soap and water. Contact your doctor if symptoms continue. 

Inhalation: Leave the room contaminated with essential oils and get fresh air. Seek assistance from a doctor if symptoms do not settle. 

Do’s and Don’ts When Using Essential Oils On Children 

  • Do keep essential oils out of the reach of children. Essential oils can be dangerous if not administered correctly. Do not let your children have access to the oils without supervision. 
  • Do consult a medical advisor. If you have questions about the safe usage of essential oils it is important that you contact an expert first. 
  • Do store in a cool, dry place without sunlight. This is necessary to ensure your essential oils are kept fresh and in good condition. 
  • Do make sure your source is reliable. It is important to make sure you are purchasing quality products that haven’t been in contact with contaminants. 
  • Don’t let essential oils make contact with eyes, ears or the nose. 
  • Don’t use Peppermint oils on children less than 30 months old. Using it can increase the risk of seizures. 
  • Don’t use undiluted oils in your bath or directly on the skin. Rashes could be an outcome of using undiluted oils on your skin. 
  • Don’t swallow essential oils, they can be toxic. 

How to Safely Apply Essential Oils 

You can use a diffuser, inhale it or apply it to the skin. Keep in mind that if you use a diffuser, make sure it does not put others at risk. If you choose to use an aroma-stick, you will need cooperation from the child. If you apply it to the skin, be wary of the dosage. Here are some recommended dosages to consider when making use of topicals: 

  • 3 months- 24 months: 0.25-0.5% 
  • 2-6 years: 1-2% 
  • 6-15 years: 1.5-3% 
  • over 15 years of age: 2.5-5% 

Essential oils can provide many benefits, provided they are used in moderation and correctly. Don’t replace medication with essential oils and consult your doctor before starting aromatherapy. If your child has any allergic reactions or symptoms after using essential oils, it is recommended that you stop usage immediately.