As some of you may know I love doTERRA essential oils and I recently achieved a huge goal that I set for myself and achieved the rank of Silver.
I fell in love with doTERRA just over 4 years ago when I
discovered the powerful ways in which doTERRA essential oils could support my
desire to take charge of my family's health in a more natural way. It was a logical transition to then share my love of doTERRA
with my clients.
When tired families find me, sleep is usually their number one
concern. When the topic of essential
oils and sleep is discussed, I always point out that essential oils can help
the body and mind relax but they do not replace a child learning independent
sleeping skills. Most children over the
age of 6 months are ready and able to learn the skill of independent sleep.
If your new to doTERRA and essential oils maybe you have concerns about the
safety of essential oils for children, how to use them and which oils are best
for aiding in a most restful sleep.
doTERRA Essential Oils
doTERRA provides the most effective and safe essential oils
in the world so that you and your family can feel confident using them. Below I am going to share with you the proper dilution techniques and how to use
essential oils on babies and children, along with which essential oils are
wonderful for relaxing the mind and body for sleep.
Dilution of essential oils for children
Childrens’ 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, it’s a great idea to dilute essential oil in a good carrier (lotion, coconut oil or fractionated coconut oil) before applying to children. You’ll still get the same benefits of the
essential oil—you’re just adding extra moisture to their delicate skin.
doTERRA does offer pre-diluted essential oils with the
doTERRA Touch and doTERRA Emotional Aromatherapy Touch lines. They are pre-diluted for you, less messy and super easy to use on the go.
It’s always advisable to use several small doses throughout
the day rather than a single large dose. Start with 1–2 drops (diluted) and it
can be repeated every 4–6 hours, as needed to a maximum of 3-12 drops in a 24
hour period. Below is a recommended ideal amounts.
How to use aromatically
Studies have shown that essential oils can promote emotions
and feelings that help contribute to a good night’s rest when used aromatically
and you don’t have to worry about skin reactions.
Inhaled oils have long been studied for their ability to
enhance relaxation, which is what we are looking for near a child’s sleep time. Diffusing is one of the simplest methods for using essential
oils aromatically.
However, if you don’t
have a diffuser you can achieve the same benefits by simply placing a few drops
of essential oil in the palm of your hand and having your child breathe it in
while holding your hands cupped gently near their nose and mouth.
Another very simple way is to mix oils in a spray bottle
with water and mist over a child’s pillow or the bed sheets.
How to use and where to use topically?
For an infant or young baby, the bottom of the feet is a
great place to apply essential oils topically, as the skin is thickest on the
sole of the foot. You can also add to a lotion and give a body massage.
Once you are done, it is advisable to cover
baby with footed clothing to avoid the baby from touching the oils or lotions
and getting into the sensitive areas such as the eyes or ears. These area are to be avoided along with any
areas with broken or damaged skin.
For a toddler, older child or a child you know does not have
skin sensitive you can apply to the neck, chest, abdomen, spine, arms, legs and
bottom of the feet.
Other great and effective method is to add a few drops of
oil to a warm bath with Epson salt or bath gel base for dispersing oils.
Oils for sleep
So which oils promote the deep feelings of calmness so
important for improving your child’s sleep routine?
Lavender is a highly researched essential oil for this
purpose. Studies have shown that inhaling Lavender essential oil before bedtime
can improve sleep. It can also be
applied topically to promote relaxation.
Blends are my favorite as they combine oils to create a
product that lessens feelings of tension, calms emotions, and leaves a peaceful
feeling. Wonderful blends for children and sleep include doTERRA
Peace Reassuring Blend, doTERRA Serenity Restful Blend and doTERRA Balance
Grounding Blend.
Since there are many essential oils that work well alone and
together to calm, so experiment to see which ones your child responses to.
It’s okay to layer, meaning apply one oil after another on
the skin. It’s fun to make blends of your own, in a roller bottle with fractionated coconut oil. Also experiment with your own diffuser blends and mixing your own favorites to discover a blend
you and your child prefer.
The following single essential oils have been shown to have aromas
that promote deep feelings of relaxation and peace: Lavender, Cedarwood, Ho
Wood, Ylang Ylang, Marjoram, Roman Chamomile, Vetiver, Hawaiian Sandalwood,
Spikenard and Bergamot.
Try one or a few and see what’s your favorite.
General Safety Guidelines
When used as directed, essential oils can be enjoyed by the
entire family. However, it is always recommended to consult with your child’s
health care provider for any specific needs or questions.
In conclusion, doTERRA essential oils are safe for use in
children, but remember to follow these general safety guidelines:
- Keep in mind safe amount-per-day guidelines.
- Avoid direct oil administration into the nose and ears, and around the eyes.
- When applying oils topically, it is a good practice to use with heavier dilutions for younger or smaller children and those with sensitive skin.
- Keep your essential oils stored out of reach of little children to prevent accidental ingestion.
- Storage should also be away from excessive heat and light, as these can change the properties of the oils dramatically.
- Teach your older children to ask for help with oil usage.
Written By: Michelle S. Donaghy
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