Five Ways to Use Aromatherapy for Happy Kids

Aromatherapy has long been touted as a way to relieve common ailments and reduce stress, both of which are prevalent in the lives of parents. They’re also used in a lot of do-it-yourself cleaning products and beauty products in an effort to reduce chemicals in the home.

If you have children, aromatherapy is a great way to instill calm and remove toxins from the home. If you’re new to aromatherapy, check out the full Essential Oils Guide, then take what you learn and use it in these five applications that help inspire happy kids.

Bath Time

There is no better way to start a bedtime routine than with a relaxing bath. That’s why many children have nightly baths starting from the time they are infants until well into elementary school. Unfortunately, using commercial bath products too much can dry out the skin and cause irritation.

As an alternative to using soap too often, swap out a few nights a week with a bath enriched with coconut oil and a few drops of essential oils to nourish the skin and produce a calming effect. Lavender oil is commonly used for this purpose. Be sure to check for any adverse reactions– they’re rare, but it’s important to pay attention. You might even decide to repeat the process after the kids are in bed, fortifying yourself with a glass of wine and a good book.

Diffuse and Humidify

Put a diffuser in your child’s room, especially during cold and flu season. You can regularly swap out the oils you use, depending on your intended purpose. Again, lavender oil is calming, especially when combined with an uplifting citrus oil. During cold and flu season, using eucalyptus oil or different blends can help offset the effects of illness.

Diffusers often come with interchangeable LED lights, which is handy if your child prefers a nightlight. You can also put one in your room to help alleviate snoring, though you might choose not to mention the reasoning.

Cleaning Products

If you are mindful of the use of chemicals in the home, creating cleaning products from natural substances– vinegar, baking soda, etc.– in combination with essential oils, might be the option for you. You can use these to clean in your child’s room, ensuring that when you disinfect their toys, you aren’t leaving any harsh chemicals that could end up in their mouths or lungs.

Citrus oils are a common choice for cleaning products, as is tea tree oil. While tea tree oil is effective, it can be harmful to pets if ingested. If you have furry family members, avoid using it or ensure that all residue is rinsed and dried.

Monster Spray/ Air Freshener

Monster Spray is a recent addition to the ultimate parenting toolbox in recent years, meant to help children offset their fear of monsters under the bed by spraying “repellent.” Monster Spray is usually just water in a spray bottle with a fancy label that you make yourself at home.

Adding essential oils to your Monster Spray works two-fold: it helps your little monster feel safer while adding a pleasing, calming aroma to the air. A word of warning when adding essential oils to your Monster Spray! Use an essential oil or blend that you don’t regularly use. Kids are observant and might notice the similarity.

Keep Gear Fresh

Kids of all ages love to run around and play. Sometimes that means extra sweat and stinky shoes and sporting equipment. Adding a few drops of essential oils to the equipment, either using a spray or directly into the item, offsets the impact of those smells. Keep in mind that many schools are scent-free zones, so do this at the beginning of the weekend if you’re adding scent to their backpack or school shoes.

When it comes to using aromatherapy in the home, the options are endless. Use the guide to learn more, experiment and try different things, and enjoy your happy, aromatic home.