Essential Oils for Children

Essential Oils for Children

Children differ from adults in how their bodies react to essential oils. Their bodies are smaller; more sensitive; and they haven’t been exposed to as much as an adult. For these reasons, it’s good to exercise caution when using essential oils for children.*

In this blog post, Bio Source Naturals discusses proper use of safe essential oils for children.

Essential Oils for Children

We do not recommend essential oils for children under three years of age.*

Some safe oils for children over three are:

• Bergamot (Citrus bergamia)**
• Chamomile, Roman (Chamaemelum nobile)
• Cypress (Cupressus sempervirens)
• Frankincense (Boswellia carteri)
• Geranium (Pelargonium graveolens)
• Ginger (Zingiber officinale)
• Lavender (Lavandula angustifolia)
• Lemon (Citrus limon)**
• Marjoram (Origanum majorana)
• Orange (Citrus aurantium)**
• Tea Tree (Melaleuca alternifolia)
• Rosemary (Rosmarinus officinalis)
• Sandalwood (Santalum album)
• Tangerine (Citrus reticulata)
• Thyme (Thumus vulgaris)
• Ylang Ylang (Cananga odorata)

**These oils are photosensitive; always dilute and do not use when exposed to direct sunlight.

Using and Diluting Essential Oils

A key factor for safely using essential oils for children is to be careful with dilution. Always dilute your essential oils, as many are strong and can irritate/bother children.*

For children under six years old, dilute one drop of essential oil in one tablespoon of carrier oil. For children over six, dilute one drop of essential oil in one teaspoon of carrier oil. After fourteen years of age, treat a child with essential oils as you would an adult.*

Massaging diluted essential oils into hands and feet is a great way to apply oils to children.* Be sure to only use certified therapeutic, pure essential oils, such as those from BioSource Naturals. Read additional important safety information here.