natural health care to prevent medication complications

Posted on: 18 May 2015

Essential oils don't just smell good, they may also help make parenting a little bit easier. Every mom or dad knows the frustration, embarrassment, and stress that occurs when a small child throws a tantrum. Have you ever considered that there may be a way to calm both your child and yourself safely and effectively? Essential oils may provide a solution:

Are they safe?

Generally, when used correctly, essential oils are safe for children. Naturally, this does come with some caveats. For example, if your child has known allergies, please consult with your allergist or pediatrician before using essential oils.

Little testing has been done on the safety of essential oils, so the best course of action is to proceed with caution. Essential oils are usually inhaled or applied to the skin. Make sure to read up on the specific oil to discover the safest application method. For example, clove, cinnamon, and citrus oils can cause skin irritation even in small amounts.

What Oils Help Calm?

A variety of different scents can help calm your child, and they will also help calm you. Common choices include:

• Lavender (Lavendula augustifolia)

• Mandarin orange (Citrus reticulata)

• Sandalwood (Santalum album)

• Rose otto (Rosa centifolia)

How Do You Use the Oil?

Depending on the type of oil, these are supplied in a variety of ways. For example, mandarin can irritate the skin, so it is typically inhaled. You can place a drop or two on a cotton ball and instruct your child to inhale it. They can also be used with an infuser to release the scent into the air.

Lotions and creams are another popular method of application. A naturopath can mix the oils of your choice into a carrier cream, which you rub onto your child when they are upset. The combination of the oil and the massage can work together to calm your child even more quickly.

Can Oils Alone Stop Tantrums?

Essential oils can help calm and diffuse the situation so you and your child can regain control in the short-term, but you will still need to address the underlying issues that are causing the tantrums. Tantrums are often the result of a tired or hungry child, so make sure your child is well-rested and fed before activities.

Frustration is another common cause of tantrums. Work with your child to help them learn how to cope with frustration. Address the cause and give your child a way to voice their frustration in an acceptable manner. Often, children just want to be heard but they aren't sure how. Finally, remain calm and take your child away from the situation to calm down. This tantrum will pass, and your child will eventually outgrow this stage.

For more information and help, try contacting a company such as Living It Out and learn more.