For ages, aromatherapy has been known to have many benefits to humans. Aromatherapy involves using essential oils to improve physical and emotional well-being. If done correctly, it can also provide relief from certain ailments.
And while it is often associated with adults, aromatherapy can also provide immense benefits to babies. In this comprehensive guide, we will explore how baby aromatherapy works, its benefits, and the best essential oils to use for your little one.
What is Baby Aromatherapy?
Aromatherapy involves using essential oils derived from plants, flowers and other natural sources to promote physical and mental well-being.
Baby aromatherapy, as the name suggests, involves using essential oils on babies to promote their physical and emotional health. It is believed that the scent of these essential oils can penetrate a baby’s skin and have a positive effect on their mood and well-being.
The Benefits of Baby Aromatherapy
There are a number of benefits of using aromatherapy on babies. Firstly, it can help to soothe a fussy baby. Lavender oil, for example, is known to help induce sleep and can calm an agitated baby. Secondly, it can help to boost your baby’s immune system.
Essential oils like tea tree oil have antibacterial and antiviral properties that make them ideal for keeping germs at bay. Lastly, aromatherapy can promote your baby’s mental and emotional well-being. Certain essential oils can help to calm anxious babies and provide relief from colic or teething pain.
How to Use Aromatherapy on Babies
Before using aromatherapy on your baby, it is important to take certain precautions. Since babies have delicate skin, essential oils should always be diluted before use. It is also important to only use essential oils that are safe for babies.
The best way to use aromatherapy on babies is by adding a few drops of essential oils to a carrier oil like coconut oil or almond oil. This mixture can then be applied on your baby’s feet, chest or back. It is important to remember to avoid applying essential oils to your baby’s face, near their eyes, nose or mouth.
The Best Essential Oils for Baby Aromatherapy
The following essential oils are safe to use on babies and can have positive effects on their physical and emotional well-being:.
1. Lavender Oil
Lavender oil is known for its calming effects. It can help to soothe a fussy baby and promote sleep. It is also great for promoting relaxation and reducing stress in babies.
2. Chamomile Oil
Chamomile oil is another essential oil that is great for calming babies. It has natural sedative properties that make it ideal for promoting sleep and reducing anxiety. It is also great for soothing irritated skin.
3. Tea Tree Oil
Tea tree oil has antibacterial and antiviral properties that make it ideal for keeping germs at bay. It can be used to treat common baby ailments like diaper rash and thrush.
4. Eucalyptus Oil
Eucalyptus oil is great for treating respiratory ailments in babies. It can help to clear congestion and promote easier breathing. It is also great for treating insect bites and rashes.
5. Frankincense Oil
Frankincense oil is great for promoting relaxation and reducing stress in babies. It can also help to stimulate the immune system, making it great for keeping germs at bay.
6. Mandarin Oil
Mandarin oil is great for promoting relaxation and reducing stress in babies. It has a calming effect on the nervous system and can help to induce sleep. It is also great for promoting healthy digestion.
7. Rose Oil
Rose oil is great for promoting relaxation and reducing stress in babies. It has a calming effect on the nervous system and can help to induce sleep. It is also great for promoting healthy digestion.
8. Yarrow Oil
Yarrow oil is great for treating skin conditions in babies. It has anti-inflammatory and antibacterial properties that make it great for treating rashes, eczema, and other skin conditions.
9. Calendula Oil
Calendula oil is great for promoting healthy skin in babies. It has antifungal, anti-inflammatory, and antibacterial properties that make it great for treating diaper rash and other skin conditions.
10. Cedarwood Oil
Cedarwood oil is great for promoting relaxation and reducing stress in babies. It can also help to promote healthy sleep and treat respiratory ailments.
Tips for Using Aromatherapy on Babies
When using aromatherapy on babies, it is important to keep the following tips in mind:.
- Always dilute essential oils before using them on your baby.
- Only use essential oils that are safe for babies.
- Only use small amounts of essential oils at a time.
- Avoid applying essential oils to your baby’s face, near their eyes, nose or mouth.
- Don’t use essential oils on premature babies or babies with respiratory problems, without consulting a medical professional first.
Overall, baby aromatherapy can be a great way to promote your baby’s physical and emotional well-being. By using the right essential oils and taking the necessary precautions, you can reap the many benefits of baby aromatherapy.