Only Lavender and Tea Tree oils have been proven safe for children. Other oils are too strong. Diluting these oils in carriers is the safest way to use them on both children and adults- never infants.
Some allergies arise, even in presumably harmless essential oils, such as chamomile. It is important to read handling instructions for every oil type you are planning to use and even to test the oil for any side effects that may occur.
Here are some ways that aromatherapy can be used at home:
Inhalation, bath salts, and hot or cold compress, for physical or emotional health; as an additive to hair products; facial steam bath; massage; perfume (essential oils may be combined with carrier oils to create your own unique scent), and potpourri to add ambiance to a room or area of your home.
Aside from the three carrier oils mentioned above, there are a variety of carriers that can be used to dilute essential oils:
Sunflower oil (good for all skin types); avocado gel (for burnt/dry skin, massage, and facial oils); sesame seed oil; wheat germ oil; safflower oil; grape seed, evening primrose, comfrey, calendula, and black currant oil; water; cornstarch; talc; store-bought lotion, cream, shampoo, and more.
Aromatherapy compresses can be used to help with fever, sinus, headaches, dermatitis, and other physical ailments. With the use of a washcloth or cotton cloth, absorb the solution and wring any excess liquid from the cloth. Apply the cloth to the area to be treated.
A common therapeutic essential oil comes from spearmint. To treat acne or congested skin, 2-3 drops can be mixed in a carrier oil of your choice and dabbed on the affected area. The same number of drops can be applied to a carrier oil for hot or cold compresses (fever, flu, and colds) in a diffuser to treat fatigue, nervous tension, and stress; it can also be used to alleviate sore gums by being mixed into a mouthwash solution. This essential oil mixes well with basil, eucalyptus, ginger, lavender, myrrh, peppermint, rosemary, and wintergreen. It is not compatible with homeopathic treatment.
An alternative solution for fever can be created with 4 ounces of cold water, 3 drops of tea tree, and 2 drops of bergamot oil. For sinus problems, add 4 drops of lavender and 4 drops of eucalyptus to 1 or 2 cups of hot water. An alternative solution for dermatitis is to mix 1/4 cup Apple Cider Vinegar, 1/4 cup Witch Hazel, 2 tsp. Baking Soda, 4 drops of Lavender, 2 drops of chamomile, and 2 drops of Bergamot with 1 to 2 cups of Cold Water.
There are many sources for aromatherapy solutions. The challenge is to find the combination that suits your needs most effectively.
