Essential Oils & Infants - Colds and Coughs

10:13 AM Posted by jo

Infants - Two to Twelve Months

Naturally you have to use your judgment and make sure that you go to the doctor if the baby shows sign of a serious illness. A baby under three weeks old with a cough should be checked by a doctor. A baby that is feverish, not eating, and crying a lot should be checked by a doctor as well.

According to Valerie Worwood, the most simple but yet effective solution to colds is to put a small bowl of hot water under the bed. Add 3 drops of eucalyptus.

She also suggests to mix 10 drops each of lavender, eucalyptus, and tea tree. Add 3 drops of this blend to a diffuser and let it run all night as well as the following day. Add 2 drops of the oil blend on a piece of cotton and put it under the pillow.
Worwood suggests that the same blend can be used as an massage blend. Mix 3 drops of the blend with 2 teaspoons of vegetable oil. Massage the baby's chest and back. Don't use this blend more than a week.

Worwood recommends the following formula for severe cough, whopping cough, severe bronchitis, or other respiratory complaints.

Eucalyptus 3 drops
Hyssop 1 drop
Thyme 1 drop

This formula can be added to a bowl of hot water that is placed under the bed away from the head during the night. It can also be used in a diffuser. se this blend for three nights, take a break for two nights, and if needed use it again. Dilute the essential oils in some water before using them in a diffuser for babies.

Remember that this is for educational purposes and it is not meant to diagnose. Seek professional help when needed.

Reference:
The Complete Book Of Essential Oils & Aromatherapy, Valerie Ann Worwood, New World Library, 1991

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Before you leave:

I recommend that you always perform a skin patch test when you try a new oil.

Check out my safety page to make sure you are aware of any contrindications before you use essential oils. Some oils are not suitable when suffering from certain conditions. Also, Read this Before You Start Using Essential oils. Some oils should not be applied prior to sun exposure so make sure you check this list before spending time in the sun.

Not sure how to apply the oils? Visit these pages to learn how to apply the oils:

Topical Application

Inhaling Essential Oils

Are You Diffusing the Oils Correctly?

How to Dilute Essential Oils

Vita Flex Technique

If you're new to essential oils you might want to check out my Getting Started Guide.

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Johanna is an aromatherapist and she is passionate about educating people about health, essential oils, real food, natural remedies, and nutrition so they make healthier choices in their lives.
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