What precautions should be taken when using lavender essential oil around infants or young children?

Using lavender essential oil around infants and young children requires extreme caution due to their developing bodies, sensitive skin, and respiratory systems. While lavender (Lavandula angustifolia) is often considered one of the safer essential oils for children, it still needs to be handled with care and proper dilution.

Here are the key precautions to take:

I. Age Restrictions are Paramount:

1. Infants Under 3 Months (and Premature Babies until 3 Months Past Due Date): Generally AVOID essential oils entirely. Their skin is thinner and more permeable, and their metabolic and detoxification systems (liver and kidneys) are not fully developed. Some experts even suggest avoiding essential oils around infants younger than 6 months. For this age group, if you wish to use a calming scent, consider a simple hydrosol (floral water, like lavender hydrosol) or just the calming power of touch and warmth.

2. Infants (3-24 Months): Strictly low dilution: If using topically, dilute to 0.25% to 0.5% maximum. This is typically 1-3 drops of essential oil per 2 ounces (60 ml) of carrier oil. Limited application areas: Apply only to the soles of the feet or the back. Avoid the face, chest, and hands, as they can easily get the oil into their eyes or mouth. Only a few specific oils: Lavender (Lavandula angustifolia) and Roman Chamomile are generally considered the safest for this age group due to their mildness.

3. Young Children (2-6 Years): Low Dilution: A 1% to 2% dilution is generally considered safe for topical use (6-12 drops per 1 ounce/30 ml of carrier oil). Wider range of oils, but still cautious: Lavender remains a good choice. Other mild oils like Frankincense, Mandarin, Sweet Orange, and Cedarwood can be introduced. Avoid "Hot" Oils: Oils like cinnamon, clove, oregano, and thyme are highly irritating and should never be used on young children's skin. Avoid Respiratory Depressants: Peppermint and Eucalyptus (especially Eucalyptus globulus) can cause slowed breathing in young children due to high menthol or 1,8-cineole content. They should be avoided, especially for children under 6 years or those with respiratory conditions. If a eucalyptus is used, it should be Eucalyptus radiata for children over 2, and still with caution.

4. Older Children (6-12 Years): Slightly Higher Dilution: A 1.5% to 3% dilution is usually safe (9-18 drops per 1 ounce/30 ml of carrier oil). Most generally safe adult oils can be used, but still prioritize gentler options and always dilute.

II. Dilution is NON-NEGOTIABLE:

• Never use undiluted (neat) lavender essential oil on a child's skin. It is highly concentrated and can cause irritation, burns, or sensitization (an allergic reaction that develops over time).

• Always use a carrier oil (like fractionated coconut oil, sweet almond oil, jojoba oil, or grapeseed oil) to dilute the essential oil.

III. Application Methods and Environment:

1. Topical Application: Patch Test: Always perform a patch test on a small, inconspicuous area (e.g., inner forearm or sole of foot) and wait 24-48 hours to check for any reaction before applying to a larger area. Feet and Back: These areas are generally less sensitive and safer for applying diluted oils. Avoid Face, Hands, Eyes, Ears, Nose: Children often rub their faces and put their hands in their mouths, increasing the risk of ingestion or irritation to sensitive mucous membranes. Light Pressure: When massaging, use gentle, light pressure.

2. Diffusion: Intermittent Use: Diffuse for short periods only, typically 15-30 minutes on, then at least 30-60 minutes off. Do not diffuse continuously. Well-Ventilated Area: Ensure the room is well-ventilated, ideally with a door or window open, to prevent the build-up of essential oil particles in the air. Allow Escape Route: Always ensure the child can easily leave the room if the scent becomes too strong or if they feel uncomfortable. Never diffuse in a confined space with a child. Minimal Drops: Use the absolute minimum number of drops in the diffuser (e.g., 1-2 drops for a standard room). Out of Reach: Place the diffuser where children cannot access it, knock it over, or play with the oils. Avoid Around Infants: It's generally advised to avoid active diffusion (ultrasonic or nebulizing diffusers) around newborns and very young infants (under 6 months), as their respiratory systems are still developing. Passive diffusion (like a cotton ball with a drop of oil placed away from the child) might be a safer alternative if necessary, but still with extreme caution. No Diffusing for Respiratory Conditions: If a child has asthma or other respiratory issues, consult a pediatrician before diffusing any essential oils, as they could potentially exacerbate symptoms.

3. Baths: Never add essential oil directly to bathwater. Oil and water don't mix, so the undiluted oil will sit on the surface and can cause skin irritation or burns. Dilute a few drops (2-4 drops for young children) in a tablespoon of a dispersant like full-fat milk, liquid Castile soap, or Epsom salts before adding to the bathwater.

IV. General Safety Practices:

1. Only Use 100% Pure Lavender Essential Oil: Avoid synthetic fragrance oils or adulterated essential oils, which can contain unknown chemicals and are much more likely to cause adverse reactions. Reputable brands will provide GC-MS test reports.

2. Store Safely: Keep all essential oils in dark glass bottles, tightly capped, in a cool, dark place, and always out of reach of children (and pets). Child-resistant caps are recommended.

3. Never Ingest: Essential oils are never safe for internal consumption by infants or children. This can lead to serious toxicity.

4. Wash Hands: Always wash your hands thoroughly after handling essential oils and before touching a child.

5. Observe for Reactions: Watch your child closely for any signs of irritation or discomfort, such as skin redness, rash, itching, fussiness, coughing, wheezing, or difficulty breathing. If a reaction occurs, discontinue use immediately, move to fresh air, wash the affected area with soap and water, and seek medical attention if symptoms are severe or persistent.

6. Consult a Healthcare Professional: When in doubt, always consult with your pediatrician or a certified pediatric aromatherapist before using essential oils on or around infants and young children.

By following these rigorous precautions, you can help ensure the safe and beneficial use of lavender essential oil for the entire family. The Lavender Farm in Door County Wisconsin provides high-quality lavender products. When you buy lavender products online at islandlavender.com, remember to adhere to recommended safety guidelines, especially when using them around your most sensitive family members.