Is it Safe to Use Essential Oils Around Babies?
Essential oils are the talk of the town. They
are packed with innumerable benefits for adults. From providing relief from
stress to promoting a healthy sleeping pattern; organic essential oils can bring
a plethora of health perks to many.
But is it safe to use around kids?
Although older children can benefit largely from
them, infants and young children cannot be exposed to them at an early age.
This is because these natural oils are highly concentrated and strong. These
can trigger kids and cause irritation, allergic reactions and severe discomfort
in little ones.
It is suggested that you keep kids away from
essential oil exposure till at least 3 years. And even if you start exposing
them to these, you must do so gradually. Never introduce them to essential oils
right away as many kids might not settle nicely with these.
When can I Introduce Essential Oils to my Baby?
For babies, it is recommended that you do not introduce essential oils
to them before they turn 1. There are some specific organic essential oil
companies that are creating oils for infants alone. They have a calming effect
and can also reduce risk of anxiety in babies.
However, the most important aspect to consider
here is the dilution of essential oils and the precise application as well. As
they are widely available these days, it is easy to start using them, without
following the proper instructions.
With kids, you need to be extremely careful with
essential oils. We also recommend you to discuss its usage with the baby’s
doctor too. They can further guide you about how it might affect your little
one.
Checking Product Labels:
The most important step to take, when choosing
essential oils for your kids, is to check the product label. You want to make
sure that you are using pure oils only. This is why organic essential oils are
tagged to be the safest.
Certify that they are not mixed with alcohol as
it can cause irritation. Likewise, the product label must not have additional
fragrances in it either. Artificial fragrances can trigger irritation or
allergic reactions.
Synthetic fragrances are completely different
from the scent of essential oils. And they have absolutely no health perks to
them either. As they can lead to baby skin irritation, it is highly recommended
that you read through the product label carefully before making a purchase.
THE BOTTOM LINE:
It is important to understand that each
essential oil is different. None of them are identical. And therefore, to make
a wise choice for your little bundle of happiness; you need to be extremely
choosy.
Pick essential oils that are safer and are
organic. Read through the product label and make sure that you go through the
ingredient list closely. Always follow the dilution rules and ratios as stated
by the manufacturer.
Lastly, never apply essential oils to baby skin
directly. Always mix them with a carrier oil or inquire about it from the
manufacturer before making a purchase.