Are essential oils safe for young children? Of course, they are. Let’s explore why holistic medical doctors prescribe essential oils for kids to naturally combat stress. Then, which specific ones you should use for children and how will be explained. This is for sure the most enjoyable way to take your stress medicine!
Essential Oils Have Been Proven to Naturally Lower Stress
Cortisol, the body’s stress hormone, is released in our HPA axis in response to stress. It was found that inhalation and topical use of certain essential oils reduced cortisol levels.
- One study found that inhalation of the essential oil blend lavender, bergamot, and ylang-ylang reduces blood pressure and serum cortisol levels (stress levels), specifically psychological stress (2).
- Lavender by itself was found to have high levels of reduced stress in participants due to a drop in cortisol levels. In one specific trial, the participants were given an algebra task. The ones given an inhalation of lavender afterward showed reduced cortisol levels (3).
- Another study found the use of holding a lavender and rosemary satchel reduced stress levels. Participants taking an exam were found to have lowered pulse rates compared to those not holding the satchel (4).
- A compilation of credible medical databases concluded that essential oils have a large anti-stress effect on the nervous system (5). Lavender, rosemary, cinnamon, bergamot, frankincense, and citrus scents such as sweet orange, grapefruit, and lemongrass had the highest anti-stress effects.
Using Essential Oils for Kids and Teenagers to Lower Stress
It is no secret that most kids and teenagers today feel overly stressed from pressure to excel in school, sports, music, and other activities. Even many young kids and toddlers can have anxiety from social and school issues. Essential oils for kids and teenagers are a safe and effective way to de-stress them without the use of prescription drugs.
The most important thing is to always, always dilute essential oils before using them topically (on the skin). Yes, adults, this includes you. In fact, this pediatric guide to essential oils is a great place to start.
- Lavender, peppermint, orange, and ginger were found to be the safest and most effective for young children (6).
- Always apply essential oils to children away from the eyes and mouth.
- Have a diffuser going with your child’s (and yours) favorite essential oils during homework and studying, falling asleep, or basically any activity. For extra fun and relaxation during bedtime, buy a diffuser that changes colors.
- Make your own homemade anti-stress elixir for your children and you. Mix a few drops of lavender or other oils with a few drops of carrier oils (coconut, castor, olive, apricot, or sweet almond). For a very small child, rub on the bottom of their feet or the back of their neck and ears. Teenagers can do this themselves. For adults, you can also rub the mixture on your temples.
Holistic Medicine and Essential Oils for Kids
The holistic practitioners at CentreSpringMD, Atlanta’s top integrative and holistic family medical center, know essential oil safety well. We can work with you and your children about aromatherapy for stress, allergies, and more.
What will you find as a patient at our office?
• Longer appointments with your provider
• Advanced technology and integrative lab testing
• Conventional and holistic treatment options
• Personalized treatment plans and support
• Direct access to your provider
• A complete menu of traditional and holistic health and spa services for kids and adults
At CentreSpringMD, we are committed to a new model of medicine with true patient-centered, collaborative care – a safe place for your child. Learn more about how we do pediatrics differently here.
Contact CentreSpringMD today to schedule an appointment for your child.
Resources:
1. https://www.sciencedirect.com/science/article/abs/pii/S0959652604000654
2. https://synapse.koreamed.org/articles/1063448
3. https://www.sciencedirect.com/science/article/abs/pii/S0003996908001118
5. https://onlinelibrary.wiley.com/doi/full/10.1002/ptr.6854
6. https://www.chop.edu/news/health-tip/how-aromatherapy-can-help-children
