Best essential oils for baby
Being a first-time mom, I wasn’t sure what to expect, and I had friends & family telling me that it’s going to be hard to manage with a baby. I realized that was true, and when I was concerned about his health, I turned to essential oils, which were a lifesaver in every aspect. They certainly provided me the confidence and ability to support my baby in a natural way!
In this post, I am going to share the best essential oils to use for babies as well as some DIY tips!
Safety on the use of essential oils on babies
Essential oils are power packed with therapeutic benefits, but it is important also to know how to use it safely. Based on the American Association of Naturopathic Physicians (AANP), it strongly advises against the use of EOs on infants under three months of age. As neonatal skin takes three months to mature, the absorption rate of EOs is increased. New-borns may not be able to deal with implications caused by the usage of EOs compared to adults who have stronger and matured immune systems. For babies older than three months, make sure to always dilute EOs before use. A rule of thumb will be a safe dilution ratio of 0.5 to 1% dilution ratio according to the National Association for Holistic Aromatherapy (NAHA).
Lavender
Benefits: Calming, reduces mild skin irritations, promotes respiratory health, helps to encourage sleep; supports a healthy immune system.
Lavender essential oil is suggested by certified aromatherapists for babies who are suffering from sleep disorders. It is also one of my favorite essential oils to use on my baby, and it is a gentle oil to use as well.
Use: Add a few drops of Lavender essential oil to pillows, bed, or to soles of feet for your baby to have a good night’s sleep.
Chamomile
Benefits: Encourages restful sleep, relieves sore muscles; reduce anxiety.
The calming and soothing qualities of Chamomile essential oil (Roman & German) are considered safe to use for teething, colic, eczema, and cold/flu.
Use: For relief from baby eczema, combine 1 drop of Roman Chamomile with 2 tsp of coconut oil and apply on affected areas. Can also be applied on baby cradle cap.
Ginger
Benefits: Supports healthy digestion, reduce occasional nausea; reduce bloating and gas.
Ginger is a powerhouse oil, and it gives antioxidant protection. It can be used in many different ways, which usually provides benefits related to tummy issues.
Use: Dilute a drop with 2 tsp of coconut oil and apply it over baby’s lower abdomen with a soothing massage.
Frankincense
Benefits: Supports healthy immune function, promotes relaxation; helps in overall wellness.
Frankincense essential oil has many amazing benefits and most commonly used in babies for general wellness. Personally, It is one of my go-to oil whenever my baby falls sick.
Use: You can diffuse or apply it diluted on soles of baby’s feet to boost the immune system. It blends well with lavender.
Lemon
Benefits: Helps to improve mood, relieves respiratory discomfort; soothes occasional stomach discomfort.
Lemon essential oil is another popular oil that many people use in their homes and can be used for babies as well. Distilled lemon is preferable to expressed lemon for babies. Expressed lemon is a potential photosensitizer, whereas distilled lemon should not cause skin irritation.
Use: Diffuse for added energy and uplifting of mood. Apply it diluted on soles of feet for general wellness.
Here are some of my favorite essential oil blends to use on babies:
Healthy tummy (for gas, bloating): Combine 1 drop of Roman Chamomile and 1 drop of Lemon/Orange with 2 tsp of carrier oil. Apply a small amount on baby’s abdomen giving a massage.
Healthy immune system: Diffuse 2 drops of Lemon, Frankincense or Lavender at bedtime and during the day. Mix 1 drop of Lemon, Frankincense or Lavender with 2 tsp of carrier oil. Use a small amount and massage your baby’s upper chest and back at each diaper change.
Healthy respiration: For relief during daytime, diffuse 1 drop of either Roman Chamomile or Lavender. Mix 1 drop of Lavender or Roman Chamomile with 2 tsp of carrier oil and rub a small amount on baby’s chest and back.
Healthy Bums: Combine 1 drop German Chamomile oil and 1 drop Lavender with 1 drop whole milk (breast milk would also work). Add the mixture to bathwater and swish around before bathing baby. Keep oils away from your baby’s eyes and face.
I hope that these DIY tips and information on essential oils are useful for all mommas who want the best for your babies! We also do have baby-friendly products that you may be interested to check out at our online shop! Please do feel free to contact us if you have any questions about our products:)