Aromatherapy For Babies

Before reading this article keep in mind that most doctors
don't recommend the use of aromatherapy on babies that re
less than three months old. This is because the nasal and
skin tissues of an infant are very sensitive and easily
irritated by anything but the blandest of substances. Once
your baby is past that age consult with your doctor to
make sure that the use of essential oils is right for your
child.

Traditionally essential oils are used to purify the air in
a nursery and calm and relax the infant. The safest and
gentlest way to introduce essential oils into the nursery
is to put the oils in a diffuser so the molecules of the
oil are dispersed through the air. You can also dilute
about ten drops of the oil in a bottle of distilled water
and mist that around the nursery and the baby's bedding.
Remember always that if your baby starts sneezing, tearing
or fretting that it may not be time to introduce
aromatherapy into your baby's life.

For best results try to choose high quality oils. The
inexpensive stuff is cut with crude substances and
alcohols and can be overwhelming to the delicate system of
a baby.

Try to choose oils that are organically grown as they are
usually of the highest quality. Avoid purchasing oils in
plastic or clear bottles as light and other factors can
cause the oil to degrade and lose efficacy. The highest
quality aromatherapy oils are usually sold in dark brown
bottles that protect them from disintegrating light rays.

There are several oils that are highly recommended for use
with babies. Some are mood enhancers, some are room
disinfectants and many are a combination of both.

Lavender and roman chamomile are the best two oils that
you can use in a mist or a diffuser to calm a fussy baby.
A blend of vanilla and orange oils is a favorite blend for
mothers who just want to keep the baby in a happy mood as
both oils have the reputation of being mood elevators for
children. Peppermint or spearmint oils are stimulating to
the brain. and may help babies learn faster.

You can also add a few drops of chamomile or lavender oil
to a baby's bath to help prepare them physically and
psychologically for naptime. Keep in mind though that all
oils added to a bath must first be generously diluted in
carrier oil such as almond or olive oil. Never pour
essential oil drops directly into a bath as that can
irritate a baby's sensitive skin.

The safest aromatherapy oils to use as disinfectants and
purifiers for the air are geranium, lavender and
eucalyptus. Lavender sprayed directly onto your babies
bedding and allowed to dry before placing the baby back in
the crib also helps get rid of allergens and dust mites.
Eucalyptus is best used for babies who have a cold or
respiratory problems.

Used in a cautious manner, essential oils can not only
help you calm and cheer your infant, but they can also
mask any unpleasant odors that are always a part of a
mother's life.

About the Author

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(c) 2005 Liz Santher - All Rights Reserved

Liz Santher is a aromatherapy enthusiast and freelance
author.

http://www.AromaTherapySecret.com
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