Copyright © 2007-2008 All rights reserved
Sedona Aromatherapie is an Oak Creek Enterprises Incorporated Company
Sedona, Arizona
Sedona Aromatherapie is an Oak Creek Enterprises Incorporated Company
Sedona, Arizona
There is a lot of contradictory advice with regard to using aromatherapy for babies and
children. Used safely and correctly, aromatherapy can be very useful in a lot of different situations. And a lot more parents are now turning to more natural solutions for their children’s health concerns than ever before. I am not a parent myself, so how might you ask, would I know and be confident enough to ‘risk’ my child’s health in using powerful, sometimes toxic,
children. Used safely and correctly, aromatherapy can be very useful in a lot of different situations. And a lot more parents are now turning to more natural solutions for their children’s health concerns than ever before. I am not a parent myself, so how might you ask, would I know and be confident enough to ‘risk’ my child’s health in using powerful, sometimes toxic,
Introduction
I may not be a mother but I am a concerned aunt to my one nephew and two nieces and in the course of my training in aromatherapy, I successfully used aromatherapy for a number of health concerns my young nieces had. In fact once tried, ‘Auntie Sharon’s magic medicine’ became a regular request even when there was no longer a need for it…
essential oils?
An 'Aromatic' History
‘It takes a village to raise a child’ An African Proverb
Throughout history, childhood ailments were often treated with plant medicine. (Vessey and Rechkemmer, 2001).
European children used to be lulled to sleep by the fragrant scent of lavender and dill, commonly known as ‘dilly pillows’.
American Indians used a wide variety of plant medicine to heal both themselves and their young ones. Natural therapies were used for heat and diaper rashes. They used a cleansing wash for baby of strawberry and raspberry leaves. Other herbs and plants used included sweet grass, sage and honey made from wild bees (even before the Europeans introduced the honey bee to the Americas). A lot of these remedies are still used today.
Throughout history, childhood ailments were often treated with plant medicine. (Vessey and Rechkemmer, 2001).
European children used to be lulled to sleep by the fragrant scent of lavender and dill, commonly known as ‘dilly pillows’.
American Indians used a wide variety of plant medicine to heal both themselves and their young ones. Natural therapies were used for heat and diaper rashes. They used a cleansing wash for baby of strawberry and raspberry leaves. Other herbs and plants used included sweet grass, sage and honey made from wild bees (even before the Europeans introduced the honey bee to the Americas). A lot of these remedies are still used today.
So it is only natural that aromatherapy be considered by today’s parents in treating their own children. Aromatherapy doesn’t use the actual plant itself (like in plant and herbal medicine); it is the essential oils which are used. Essential oils, however, are the life force of a plant.
Research studies
One of my nieces suffers from a common childhood complaint – eczema. Aromatherapy helped ease her suffering in which she is not alone.
In the UK, the National Eczema Society estimates that up to one fifth of school children age have eczema. With this in mind, A London University (school of applied science, South Bank University) carried out a study using two groups of children. One group received therapeutic massage with the use of essential oils and the other, therapeutic massage without the use of essential oils. Both groups showed an improvement in their eczema conditions but it wasn’t proven if essential oils worked in this situation. So what does this ‘prove’? As with all research studies, there could be a number of factors affecting this outcome and only personal use/experience will show how effective it is for your child.
One thing is certain. Aromatherapy, along with other complementary therapies, is becoming more popular for those with chronic skin conditions (Johnston et al., 2003).
An aromatherapist is not a qualified medical practitioner and can not claim to cure. However, aromatherapists’ own case studies (myself included) have shown that aromatherapy may help with some conditions in some children.
Chicken pox is another example. My youngest niece, then 3 years old, broke out with chicken pox, with lots of spots that could have become quite ugly and scarred her if she had continued to scratch. With the use of a blend of some aromatherapy essential oils, and applied by my sister, the inflammation was not as bad as it might have been. And my sister believes that it may have prevented some scarring.
In the UK, aromatherapy is now used by a number of open minded health practitioners, alongside conventional medicine. It is said that almost 40% of general practitioner partnerships will refer their National Health Service patients to a complementary therapist where appropriate (Thomas et al 1995). In the USA, healthcare practitioners have yet to catch up to the beliefs shared by their UK counterparts but as there is no National Healthcare Service in the USA, there is difficulty in providing the same services, due to insurance issues. It is left to an individual to seek out a complementary approach to conventional medicine.
‘Research’ (both scientific and through aromatherapy case studies) will continue into the effects aromatherapy has, and its potential benefits, for years to come and can only strengthen interest and validity in the cause for the use of aromatherapy.
Use of aromatherapy for baby
‘Ten tiny little fingers that always want to play,
That never stop exploring the wonder of today.
Ten tiny little fingers that from the very start,
Will reach out for tomorrow yet always hold your heart.’ Author unknown
Babies love smell. It identifies the world around them. One of the first ‘smells’ a baby recognises is that of its mother. Within no time at all, a baby learns this. There follows a whole new plethora of new ‘smells’ and experiences associated with them. We can associate a smell with a ‘good’ or a ‘bad’ feeling, depending on what it is.
The Atlantic Institute of Aromatherapy and the University of South Florida developed a research project (the Psychosensory Aromatherapy Research Project) to evaluate the reactions experienced by children with a number of disorders when using essential oils. The results show, in a number of cases, a definite link between olfactory sensation and behavior modification.
We are born with a ‘clean slate’, yet to be contaminated with the world around us. Thus, introducing aromatherapy, a natural aroma as oppose to a synthetic one, at such a young age will make a lasting impression. Used correctly, the first few months of life can be greatly enhanced for both mother and child.
Studies have shown that smells ‘inhaled’ by baby by the amniotic fluid pre-natal are the smells preferred after birth too (Davis and Porter, 1991; Schall et al., 2000).
There are a few things to consider, however:
Never apply essential oils direct to a baby’s skin. Always use a carrier.
A baby’s skin (up to the age of two years old) is not structured enough to absorb oils and therefore lotion is the preferred carrier for essential oils at this age.
Only ‘gentle’ essential oils should be introduced at such a young age. Special note should be taken of essential oils containing a high content of menthone (for example, peppermint (mentha x piperita), Cornmint (mentha arvensis)). Used in the vicinity (not even in application) of new born babies may cause serious adverse consequences, including respiratory collapse (Davis and Livingstone, 1986).
Massage is one of the most common uses of aromatherapy with baby, as it involves touch and communication between yourself and baby.
Reduce the quantity of essential oils used for baby as opposed to an adult. The smallest drop may be all you need. Seek advice from a qualified aromatherapist if you are not familiar with using essential oils.
Always seek the experience of a qualified aromatherapist before trying any essential oils you are not familiar with and the best way to use them.
Popular essential oils for use with baby
‘Flowers are words which even a baby can understand.’ Arthur C. Coxe
Different essential oils have different properties and can often be used for a variety of different reasons. However, the following essential oils are some of the more popular choices to use for baby.
Roman Chamomile (chamaemelum nobile), Grapefruit, (citrus paradisi), Lemon (citrus limon), Mandarin (citrus reticulate), Rose Otto (rosa damascena), Sweet Orange (citrus aurantium sinensis), Lavender (lavandula augustifolia), Geranium (pelargonium graveolens).
Clove Bud (syzygium aromaticum) blended together with Hypericum and Roman Chamomile (chamaemelum nobile) is good for teething babies.
Essential oils to avoid for use with baby
Perhaps more importantly, is to know which essential oils to avoid when using aromatherapy for baby. The following essential oils are not recommended for safe use with babies.
Basil (ocimum basilicum), Juniper (juniperus communis), Hyssop (hyssop officinalis), any essential oils high in menthone, e.g. peppermint (mentha x piperita), Cornmint (mentha arvensis)
Sedona Aromatherapie Baby Blends
All blends made by Sedona Aromatherapie contain the purest of essential oils and base products. The essential oils used in our baby blends are commonly used for use with babies due to their gentle, soothing properties.
For bath time, try our baby bubbles. Made up of Roman chamomile (chamaemelum nobile), Rose (rosa damascena) and Lavender (lavandula angustifolia) essential oils, it will help baby be calm and relaxed for a good night’s sleep.
Our baby soother lotion made up of Grapefruit (citrus paradisi), Roman Chamomile (chamaemelum nobile) and Geranium (pelargonium graveolens) essential oils can be used to massage baby to help relax and calm a tetchy baby.
For the mom-to-be, try our ‘Just for baby’ Baby Shower Gift Basket. It contains treats for mom as well as for baby, including our ‘one for mums-to-be’ Blend, a massage oil that can be used pre-natal. Made up of Lavender (lavandula angustifolia) and Rose Otto (rosa damascena) essential oils, it will prepare both mom and baby for the imminent arrival into this world! It can also be used after baby’s birth.
As an aside, a randomized clinical trial (Dale, A, Cornwell, S (1994)) concluded that new mothers using lavender oil in their baths had a lower mean discomfort score between the 3rd and 5th days after childbirth, when it is usual to experience higher discomfort.
Use of aromatherapy for children
‘Child rearing myth #1: Labor ends when the baby is born’. Anonymous
If you started using aromatherapy when your child was a baby, using aromatherapy throughout childhood and into adulthood is a natural progression. However, it is never too late to introduce children to aromatherapy. Children have a natural curiosity and are often more open-minded and willing to try new things than adults.
In addition to applying lotions and oils, aromatherapy can be introduced through inhalation. Studies have shown that using essential oil aromas with children in the management of anxiety and hyperactivity may be of benefit (Mehta et al., 1998). It should be noted, however, that negative attachments as well as positive attachments to a particular oil may be experienced and that these should be noted. What works for one child may not work for another.
Again, there are a few things to consider when using aromatherapy for children, including, but not exhaustive, the following:
-Never apply essential oils direct to a child’s skin, unless directed to do so by a qualified aromatherapist, and then only with extreme care.
-Use reduced amounts of essential oils in aromatherapy use. Children up to 3 years old, should use the same quantity amounts as for babies.
-Lotions are recommended for use with young children, as they are more readily absorbed by their skin.
-Don’t use aromatherapy as an alternative to any prescribed medication your child may be using for any medical condition. Always take professional advice from your doctor if you are in any doubt as to a medication’s effect if using aromatherapy alongside a prescribed treatment.
-Seek advice from a qualified aromatherapist to understand the best way to use aromatherapy for your child if you have never used aromatherapy with your child before.
-Aromatherapy use with babies and children has usually received ‘bad press’ when someone used it without knowing what they were doing.
Popular essential oils for use with children
The following essential oils have usually proven to be of popular use with children due to their gentle properties.
Cedarwood (cedrus atlantica), Roman Chamomile (chamaemelum nobile), Grapefruit (citrus paradisi), Lemon (citrus limon) – especially good for use with young children, Mandarin (citrus reticulata),Rose Otto (rosa damascena), Rosewood (aniba rosaeodora), Sandalwood (santalum austra caladonia), Sweet Orange (citrus aurantium sinensis).
Essential Oils to avoid for use with children
The following oils are not recommended for use with children.
Basil (ocimum basilicum), Juniper (juniperus communis (only use with the advice of an experienced aromatherapist, and then with extreme care. Other oils are preferable), Hyssop (hyssop officinalis).
Personal Blends for children
Sedona Aromatherapie is constantly adding new blends to our current available range of aromatherapy products. Our most-up-to-date source on this is to check our website frequently. Due to the variety and nature of children’s use with aromatherapy, I would advise you to contact me, at sharon@sedonaaromatherapie.com or call 928 282-1350 for advice on using a particular essential oil for a particular condition. If required, I can make the blend for you for an additional cost.
Aromatherapy for teenage girls
Teenage girls may have different needs of aromatherapy than that of younger girls with the onset of puberty. The following essential oils are popular choices for teenage girls for a variety of problems.
Clary Sage (salvia sclarea) (good for moodiness), Cypress (cupressus sempervirens) (good for period pains together with Roman Chamomile (chamaemelum nobile)), Geranium (pelargonium graveolens) (hormonal balancing), Rose Otto (rosa damascena) (good for skin, PMT, jealousy, increase confidence), Ylang Ylang (cananga odorata) (good for skin, anxiety and depression).
Further advice
Aromatherapy can be of great benefit for both babies and children if used correctly, effectively and safely. If you would like further information or individual advice on anything you may have read on this page please do not hesitate to contact me.
I am happy to answer any questions or give further advice by e-mail or by telephone on 928 282-1350.
Personal blends can be made for almost any condition you or your family may have and I would be happy to do this for you!
Have a truly aromatic day!
Copyright © Sharon Falsetto (BA Hons) 2007 - 2008 All rights reserved
References
Atlantic Institute of Aromatherapy: Psychosensory Aromatherapy Research Project (www.atlanticinstitute.com/parp.html)
Dale, A., Cornwell, S. (1994): Journal of Advanced Nursing, 19:89-96
Green, Mindy, Keville, Kathi, 1995 ‘Aromatherapy: A Complete Guide to the Healing Art’ Crossing Press
International Journal of Clinical Aromatherapy 2005 ‘Paediatric Care’ Volume 2, Issue 2: Australia
Kavasch, E. Barrie, Baar, Karen, 1999 ‘American Indian Healing Arts’ New York: Bantam
Phytother Res 2000 Sep;14(6):452-456 Evaluation of Aromatherapy to help treat childhood eczema (www.internethealthlibrary.com)
Price, Penny, Price, Shirley, 1996 ‘Aromatherapy for babies and children’ Stratford-upon-Avon, England : Riverhead
Price, Shirley, Price, Len, 1999 ‘Aromatherapy for Health Professionals’ Edinburgh, Scotland : Churchill Livingstone
Research studies
One of my nieces suffers from a common childhood complaint – eczema. Aromatherapy helped ease her suffering in which she is not alone.
In the UK, the National Eczema Society estimates that up to one fifth of school children age have eczema. With this in mind, A London University (school of applied science, South Bank University) carried out a study using two groups of children. One group received therapeutic massage with the use of essential oils and the other, therapeutic massage without the use of essential oils. Both groups showed an improvement in their eczema conditions but it wasn’t proven if essential oils worked in this situation. So what does this ‘prove’? As with all research studies, there could be a number of factors affecting this outcome and only personal use/experience will show how effective it is for your child.
One thing is certain. Aromatherapy, along with other complementary therapies, is becoming more popular for those with chronic skin conditions (Johnston et al., 2003).
An aromatherapist is not a qualified medical practitioner and can not claim to cure. However, aromatherapists’ own case studies (myself included) have shown that aromatherapy may help with some conditions in some children.
Chicken pox is another example. My youngest niece, then 3 years old, broke out with chicken pox, with lots of spots that could have become quite ugly and scarred her if she had continued to scratch. With the use of a blend of some aromatherapy essential oils, and applied by my sister, the inflammation was not as bad as it might have been. And my sister believes that it may have prevented some scarring.
In the UK, aromatherapy is now used by a number of open minded health practitioners, alongside conventional medicine. It is said that almost 40% of general practitioner partnerships will refer their National Health Service patients to a complementary therapist where appropriate (Thomas et al 1995). In the USA, healthcare practitioners have yet to catch up to the beliefs shared by their UK counterparts but as there is no National Healthcare Service in the USA, there is difficulty in providing the same services, due to insurance issues. It is left to an individual to seek out a complementary approach to conventional medicine.
‘Research’ (both scientific and through aromatherapy case studies) will continue into the effects aromatherapy has, and its potential benefits, for years to come and can only strengthen interest and validity in the cause for the use of aromatherapy.
Use of aromatherapy for baby
‘Ten tiny little fingers that always want to play,
That never stop exploring the wonder of today.
Ten tiny little fingers that from the very start,
Will reach out for tomorrow yet always hold your heart.’ Author unknown
Babies love smell. It identifies the world around them. One of the first ‘smells’ a baby recognises is that of its mother. Within no time at all, a baby learns this. There follows a whole new plethora of new ‘smells’ and experiences associated with them. We can associate a smell with a ‘good’ or a ‘bad’ feeling, depending on what it is.
The Atlantic Institute of Aromatherapy and the University of South Florida developed a research project (the Psychosensory Aromatherapy Research Project) to evaluate the reactions experienced by children with a number of disorders when using essential oils. The results show, in a number of cases, a definite link between olfactory sensation and behavior modification.
We are born with a ‘clean slate’, yet to be contaminated with the world around us. Thus, introducing aromatherapy, a natural aroma as oppose to a synthetic one, at such a young age will make a lasting impression. Used correctly, the first few months of life can be greatly enhanced for both mother and child.
Studies have shown that smells ‘inhaled’ by baby by the amniotic fluid pre-natal are the smells preferred after birth too (Davis and Porter, 1991; Schall et al., 2000).
There are a few things to consider, however:
Never apply essential oils direct to a baby’s skin. Always use a carrier.
A baby’s skin (up to the age of two years old) is not structured enough to absorb oils and therefore lotion is the preferred carrier for essential oils at this age.
Only ‘gentle’ essential oils should be introduced at such a young age. Special note should be taken of essential oils containing a high content of menthone (for example, peppermint (mentha x piperita), Cornmint (mentha arvensis)). Used in the vicinity (not even in application) of new born babies may cause serious adverse consequences, including respiratory collapse (Davis and Livingstone, 1986).
Massage is one of the most common uses of aromatherapy with baby, as it involves touch and communication between yourself and baby.
Reduce the quantity of essential oils used for baby as opposed to an adult. The smallest drop may be all you need. Seek advice from a qualified aromatherapist if you are not familiar with using essential oils.
Always seek the experience of a qualified aromatherapist before trying any essential oils you are not familiar with and the best way to use them.
Popular essential oils for use with baby
‘Flowers are words which even a baby can understand.’ Arthur C. Coxe
Different essential oils have different properties and can often be used for a variety of different reasons. However, the following essential oils are some of the more popular choices to use for baby.
Roman Chamomile (chamaemelum nobile), Grapefruit, (citrus paradisi), Lemon (citrus limon), Mandarin (citrus reticulate), Rose Otto (rosa damascena), Sweet Orange (citrus aurantium sinensis), Lavender (lavandula augustifolia), Geranium (pelargonium graveolens).
Clove Bud (syzygium aromaticum) blended together with Hypericum and Roman Chamomile (chamaemelum nobile) is good for teething babies.
Essential oils to avoid for use with baby
Perhaps more importantly, is to know which essential oils to avoid when using aromatherapy for baby. The following essential oils are not recommended for safe use with babies.
Basil (ocimum basilicum), Juniper (juniperus communis), Hyssop (hyssop officinalis), any essential oils high in menthone, e.g. peppermint (mentha x piperita), Cornmint (mentha arvensis)
Sedona Aromatherapie Baby Blends
All blends made by Sedona Aromatherapie contain the purest of essential oils and base products. The essential oils used in our baby blends are commonly used for use with babies due to their gentle, soothing properties.
For bath time, try our baby bubbles. Made up of Roman chamomile (chamaemelum nobile), Rose (rosa damascena) and Lavender (lavandula angustifolia) essential oils, it will help baby be calm and relaxed for a good night’s sleep.
Our baby soother lotion made up of Grapefruit (citrus paradisi), Roman Chamomile (chamaemelum nobile) and Geranium (pelargonium graveolens) essential oils can be used to massage baby to help relax and calm a tetchy baby.
For the mom-to-be, try our ‘Just for baby’ Baby Shower Gift Basket. It contains treats for mom as well as for baby, including our ‘one for mums-to-be’ Blend, a massage oil that can be used pre-natal. Made up of Lavender (lavandula angustifolia) and Rose Otto (rosa damascena) essential oils, it will prepare both mom and baby for the imminent arrival into this world! It can also be used after baby’s birth.
As an aside, a randomized clinical trial (Dale, A, Cornwell, S (1994)) concluded that new mothers using lavender oil in their baths had a lower mean discomfort score between the 3rd and 5th days after childbirth, when it is usual to experience higher discomfort.
Use of aromatherapy for children
‘Child rearing myth #1: Labor ends when the baby is born’. Anonymous
If you started using aromatherapy when your child was a baby, using aromatherapy throughout childhood and into adulthood is a natural progression. However, it is never too late to introduce children to aromatherapy. Children have a natural curiosity and are often more open-minded and willing to try new things than adults.
In addition to applying lotions and oils, aromatherapy can be introduced through inhalation. Studies have shown that using essential oil aromas with children in the management of anxiety and hyperactivity may be of benefit (Mehta et al., 1998). It should be noted, however, that negative attachments as well as positive attachments to a particular oil may be experienced and that these should be noted. What works for one child may not work for another.
Again, there are a few things to consider when using aromatherapy for children, including, but not exhaustive, the following:
-Never apply essential oils direct to a child’s skin, unless directed to do so by a qualified aromatherapist, and then only with extreme care.
-Use reduced amounts of essential oils in aromatherapy use. Children up to 3 years old, should use the same quantity amounts as for babies.
-Lotions are recommended for use with young children, as they are more readily absorbed by their skin.
-Don’t use aromatherapy as an alternative to any prescribed medication your child may be using for any medical condition. Always take professional advice from your doctor if you are in any doubt as to a medication’s effect if using aromatherapy alongside a prescribed treatment.
-Seek advice from a qualified aromatherapist to understand the best way to use aromatherapy for your child if you have never used aromatherapy with your child before.
-Aromatherapy use with babies and children has usually received ‘bad press’ when someone used it without knowing what they were doing.
Popular essential oils for use with children
The following essential oils have usually proven to be of popular use with children due to their gentle properties.
Cedarwood (cedrus atlantica), Roman Chamomile (chamaemelum nobile), Grapefruit (citrus paradisi), Lemon (citrus limon) – especially good for use with young children, Mandarin (citrus reticulata),Rose Otto (rosa damascena), Rosewood (aniba rosaeodora), Sandalwood (santalum austra caladonia), Sweet Orange (citrus aurantium sinensis).
Essential Oils to avoid for use with children
The following oils are not recommended for use with children.
Basil (ocimum basilicum), Juniper (juniperus communis (only use with the advice of an experienced aromatherapist, and then with extreme care. Other oils are preferable), Hyssop (hyssop officinalis).
Personal Blends for children
Sedona Aromatherapie is constantly adding new blends to our current available range of aromatherapy products. Our most-up-to-date source on this is to check our website frequently. Due to the variety and nature of children’s use with aromatherapy, I would advise you to contact me, at sharon@sedonaaromatherapie.com or call 928 282-1350 for advice on using a particular essential oil for a particular condition. If required, I can make the blend for you for an additional cost.
Aromatherapy for teenage girls
Teenage girls may have different needs of aromatherapy than that of younger girls with the onset of puberty. The following essential oils are popular choices for teenage girls for a variety of problems.
Clary Sage (salvia sclarea) (good for moodiness), Cypress (cupressus sempervirens) (good for period pains together with Roman Chamomile (chamaemelum nobile)), Geranium (pelargonium graveolens) (hormonal balancing), Rose Otto (rosa damascena) (good for skin, PMT, jealousy, increase confidence), Ylang Ylang (cananga odorata) (good for skin, anxiety and depression).
Further advice
Aromatherapy can be of great benefit for both babies and children if used correctly, effectively and safely. If you would like further information or individual advice on anything you may have read on this page please do not hesitate to contact me.
I am happy to answer any questions or give further advice by e-mail or by telephone on 928 282-1350.
Personal blends can be made for almost any condition you or your family may have and I would be happy to do this for you!
Have a truly aromatic day!
Copyright © Sharon Falsetto (BA Hons) 2007 - 2008 All rights reserved
References
Atlantic Institute of Aromatherapy: Psychosensory Aromatherapy Research Project (www.atlanticinstitute.com/parp.html)
Dale, A., Cornwell, S. (1994): Journal of Advanced Nursing, 19:89-96
Green, Mindy, Keville, Kathi, 1995 ‘Aromatherapy: A Complete Guide to the Healing Art’ Crossing Press
International Journal of Clinical Aromatherapy 2005 ‘Paediatric Care’ Volume 2, Issue 2: Australia
Kavasch, E. Barrie, Baar, Karen, 1999 ‘American Indian Healing Arts’ New York: Bantam
Phytother Res 2000 Sep;14(6):452-456 Evaluation of Aromatherapy to help treat childhood eczema (www.internethealthlibrary.com)
Price, Penny, Price, Shirley, 1996 ‘Aromatherapy for babies and children’ Stratford-upon-Avon, England : Riverhead
Price, Shirley, Price, Len, 1999 ‘Aromatherapy for Health Professionals’ Edinburgh, Scotland : Churchill Livingstone
