Aromatherapy from baby to schoolchild: a guide for parents

WHEN SHOULD YOU NOT USE ESSENTIAL OILS ?

Do not use essential oils as an integral part of aromatherapy for children under 3 months of age. Babies are sensitive, and any allergic reactions may be more intense than at an older age.

Unsuitable oils for children under 2–3 years of age

• Peppermint, eucalyptus globulus, rosemary, thyme, thymol, cinnamon, cloves – too strong, may cause respiratory tract irritation.

• Conifers (pine, fir, spruce) – can cause allergies and irritate the respiratory tract.

WHEN TO USE ESSENTIAL OILS?

Indirect use of essential oils in children in an aroma lamp (not on the skin) is generally considered safe from 3 months of age , provided the correct dosage and selection of appropriate oils .

Basic rules

• From 3 months : very fine oils can be used in a very low concentration (1–2 drops in an aroma lamp for the entire room), for a short period of time: 5–10 minutes.

• From 6 months : you can gradually extend the time of using the oil in the aroma lamp to 10–15 minutes, for fine oils up to 30 minutes, but still use fine oils.

• From 2-3 years : you have a wider selection of essential oils and the option of longer use: e.g. at night, but still be careful with the dosage.

Essential oils suitable for children from 3 months (especially to promote restful sleep)

• Lavender (Lavandula angustifolia, Lavandula latifolia) – with a delicate floral scent, with a calming effect.

• Roman chamomile – to reduce anxiety and promote restful sleep.

• Mandarin – slightly calming and induces a feeling of well-being.

• Neroli – gentle but very effective for calming (for older children).

• Cedar – gentle, calming effect, for tension and anxiety, suitable for mixtures for restful sleep, helps with upper respiratory tract diseases and is suitable for colds.

Safe essential oils from 6 months (for aroma diffuser/aroma lamp):

• Lavender (Lavandula angustifolia, Lavandula latifolia) – with a delicate floral scent, with a calming effect.

• Roman chamomile – to reduce anxiety and promote restful sleep.

• Mandarin – slightly calming and induces a feeling of well-being.

• Neroli – gentle but very effective for calming (for older children).

• Cedar – gentle, calming effect, for tension and anxiety, suitable for mixtures for restful sleep, helps with upper respiratory tract diseases and is suitable for colds.

• Sandalwood – for calming.

• Ravintsara (Cinnamomum camphora CT cineole) – gentler than eucalyptus, can be used for colds.

How can I use essential oil?

Aroma lamp/aroma diffuser

• From 6 months: 1 drop into water in a diffuser or 1–2 drops into an aroma lamp, 10–15 minutes in the room, up to 30 minutes for fine oils.

• From 2 years: 2–3 drops, possibility of extension, e.g. at night.

Massage mixture

• Into a carrier oil (e.g. almond oil), see table:

For children , much lower concentrations than the IFRA (International Fragrance Association) maximum are used, commonly:

Interestingly, some leave-in cosmetic products use lower concentrations of certain essential oils than those listed above:

• You can use the massage mixture on your chest or back (for colds), or on the soles of your feet for blood circulation, antiseptic, etc. effects, depending on the essential oil.

• Never apply essential oil alone to the skin!

What should I watch out for?

• Always choose 100% natural essential oil , avoid fragrance oils.

• Choose and use the oil according to the child's age, taking into account the dosage and duration of use, and monitor the child for any symptoms such as coughing or other unusual reactions. In such a case, stop using the essential oil.

• Do not use if the child has a disease that affects the respiratory tract, such as asthma.

• Never use undiluted oil directly on the skin or mucous membranes (do not drip it into the nose, wipe your mouth with it, etc.).

You can learn about the use of essential oils in everyday life from our article.

If you are unsure about the suitability of using an essential oil on a baby, it is better not to use it or consult a pediatrician first.
Every child is unique and may react differently to scents and natural substances. Always monitor your child's reaction to an essential oil and discontinue use immediately if there is any sign of irritation or discomfort.

You can read about what essential oils are in our article , and we have written instructions for using these natural products.

We wrote the article for you on June 4, 2025.

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