Aromatherapy is the art of using the ‘aroma’ from essential oils as a therapy for promoting and balancing your health. Derived from leaves, petals, rinds, bark, twig, seed and root through several methods of extraction eg steam distillation, they contain potent components to treat your skin, hair and internal organs. Although essential oils are generally safe for adults, extra precaution is required when applied to children:
•Avoid using it on children under 6 months old because of their immature immune system and thinner delicate skin.
•For children between 6 months and 2 years, you can diffuse it in a room for children for a short period and not preferably not prolonged use. In acute cases, such as bug bite or bee sting, you can typically use essential oils after diluting with a carrier oil.
•Topical use is safe after 2 years, subject to patch test for sensitivity. If in doubt, a high dilution is recommended because their immune system is still not so strong. At this stage, children can’t deal with the adverse effects of concentrated essential oils. Hydrosols and herbs are safe choices for children.