Health
Aromatherapy for Children
Guest Blogger: Jason Moore
Aromatherapy, also regarded as essential oils, not only benefit adult users, but also children. While there are a number of safe ones to use, additional care and caution must be practiced at all times. If learned and mastered proficiently, a parent may be able to provide better care for their children, and permanently replace medication with natural oils as treatment for a variety of health conditions including colic, tummy aches, and headaches.
What is Aromatherapy?
Aromatherapy is the use of essential oils to induce positive effects on the body. Essential oils are natural aromatic plant essences that are extracted from fruits, leaves, flowers, roots, resins, seeds, and wood. These natural extracts are used mainly for their healing attributes. One can purchase essential oils from only licensed and qualified merchants; yet it is possible to find other sources.
So which essential oil should you use? There are a variety of viable oils to use for aromatherapy treatment. From lavender to fennel to chamomile, the choices are endless. To treat a condition effectively, one must use the proper aromatherapy agents. Despite the variety of essential oils to select from, not all are suitable for use in children. Here are some common concoctions for aromatherapy for children.
Aromatherapy for Insomniacs
Insomnia is one of the common health ailments that children suffer. Having to wake up frequently just to look after your sleepless child as he tries to fall asleep is something that can affect your entire family. There may be a number of reasons why your child is suffering from the condition; thus it should be consulted with a physician.
Giving aromatherapy treatment may help him/her achieve a normal sleep cycle. Typically, a warm bath during bedtime with the use of oils like Ylang Ylang, Marjoram Sweet, or Sandalwood can be very effective. In addition, place some essential oils on a tissue or towel and tuck it under their pillowcase, so your child can inhale it.
If your child is somewhat energetic, massaging him after an evening bath is a great way to soothe and calm him, thereby inducing sleepiness. Remember to use lavender in only small amounts, 1 to 2 drops maximum, since an exuberant amount can lead to wakefulness.
Benefits of Aromatherapy
When practiced correctly, aromatherapy treatment can be of large advantage, and will not conflict with your child’s doctor-prescribed medication. Always do your homework of the oil that best fits your child’s condition. Seek expert advice and recommendations from aroma therapists.
Overall, essential oils can be a great way to support a child’s health and wellness. It can be extremely therapeutic and nurturing for your child, and very rewarding for the parent or caregiver. The effects of aromatherapy can basically fall into three primary classes – helping in healing from minor conditions and injuries, supporting child’s overall sense of wellness, and supporting a child’s sleep pattern.
There are a myriad of methods to apply essential oils for aromatherapy. These include creams, gels, compresses, body lotions, bath and foot bath, oil warmers, etc. The two most common ways these essential oils are applied are massages and inhalation.
About the Author
Jason Moore is a freelance writer, professional blogger, and social media enthusiast. His blog Aupairjobs.com focuses on Jobs. You can follow him on Google+ .
