Essential Oil Use with Children

When it comes to the health of their children, many parents are unsure as to what is safe to use and what is not. Although there are sources that say you can use any therapeutic grade essential oils on infants and children as long as they are diluted with a carrier oil, there are some oils that are hot enough that it is unwise to use them on a baby's sensitive skin. This article will address the oils that are generally considered safe to use on children and which oils to use for common conditions a parent may encounter with their child.

The information on this page is for educational purposes only. It is not meant to be used to diagnose, prescribe or treat any disease, illness or injury. Seek professional medical attention if your child appears to have any disease, illness or injury.

Dilution Recommendations

When using essential oils on babies and children, it is always best to dilute the pure essential oil with a carrier oil. For older children, dilute 1-2 drops of essential oil with 1/2-1 tsp. of carrier oil. For newborns and infants, dilute 1-2 drops in 2 Tbs. of carrier oil. If the oils are used in a bath, always use a bath gel base as a dispersing agent for the oils. Common carrier oils include fractionated coconut oil, olive oil, vegetable oil, or almond oil.

Safety Precautions

Keep the oils out of children's reach. If an oil is ever ingested, give the child an oil-soluble liquid such as milk, cream, or half & half. Then call your local poison control center or seek emergency medical attention. A few drops of pure essential oil shouldn't be life-threatening, but for your protection, it is best to take these precautions.

Oils Regarded as Safe for Children

Any of the oils discussed on this page are safe to use, especially if diluted. However, the following list contains oils that many people commonly agree are safe for infants. If you do not have experience with essential oils or are a cautious parent, choose the oils listed under each condition that are also found in this list to use.

Several oils that are generally considered safe for children include the following:

• Cypress

• Frankincense

• Geranium

• Ginger

• Lavender

• Lemon*

• Marjoram

• Melaleuca

• Orange*

• Rosemary**

• Sandalwood

• Thyme

• Ylang ylang.

*These oils are photosensative; always dilute. To prevent a rash or pigmentation of the skin, do not use citrus oils when exposed to direct sunlight.

**These oils should never be used undiluted on babies and children.

The information on this page is an abridgement from the Modern Essentials "Personal Usage Guide" section by AromaTools. This information has been designed to help educate the reader in regard to the subject matter covered. This information is provided with the understanding that the publisher, the authors, and AromaTools, LLC are not liable for the misconception or misuse of the information provided. It is not provided in order to diagnose, prescribe, or treat any disease, illness, or injured condition of the body. The authors, publisher, and AromaTools LLC shall have neither liability nor responsibility to any person or entity with respect to any loss, damage, or injury caused or alleged to be caused directly or indirectly by this information. The information presented is in no way intended as a substitute for medical counseling. Anyone suffering from any disease, illness, or injury should consult a qualified health care professional.

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