Having trouble sleeping for your baby? Discover the benefits of aromatherapy

The expert shows the benefits and teaches how to use aromatherapy in everyday life to improve the quality of your child’s sleep and rest

Aromatherapy has proven to be an effective ally in caring for children’s sleep, especially young children who have trouble sleeping. Nurse and aromatherapy specialist Talita Pavarini shares natural and safe approaches to help little ones have more restful nights.

Safe essential oils

For children aged 1 year and older, lavender (Lavandula angustifolia), Roman chamomile, and sweet orange oils are especially helpful. This is because each of these oils has calming properties that help create a relaxing environment that promotes sleep.

Application methods

Parents can use diffusers, massages, and baths to apply essential oils. For example, using a diffuser with 1-2 drops of essential oil in your child’s room before bed can transform the environment. Massages with diluted oils (1-2 drops in 20 ml of carrier oil) are also a gentle way to help children relax.

Aromatherapy Sleep Routine

In addition to oils, it is essential to establish a consistent routine. Therefore, preparing the room with aromatherapy, performing a light massage and adding essential oils to the bath water are practices that, if repeated, help the child to associate these aromas with bedtime, promoting relaxation and inducing sleep.

Practical experiences

A study published in the Journal of Pediatric Nursing in 2023 found that using lavender in a diffuser led to significant improvements in a child’s sleep quality after two weeks of consistent use. Parents reported less resistance to going to bed and fewer nighttime awakenings.

Furthermore, another study from 2023, published in the World Journal of Pediatrics, found that aromatherapy, particularly lavender, brings significant benefits to the sleep of children up to 1 year of age.

Mothers’ application of lavender lotion resulted in increased sleep duration and fewer nighttime interruptions. Similarly, bathing in lavender oil before bed resulted in less crying and more time in deep sleep, providing a safe and effective method for improving sleep quality in infants.

Necessary precautions

It is important to dilute essential oils properly and avoid contact with eyes and mucous membranes. Constant supervision and Request to a qualified professional are essential to ensure the safety and effectiveness of aromatherapy use in children.

Integration with other practices

Talita informs that aromatherapy can be integrated with Shantala massage, a technique that strengthens the bond between parents and children, as well as enhancing the relaxing effects of essential oils, promoting healthy neuropsychomotor development.

Source: Terra

Ben

Ben Stock is a lifestyle journalist and author at Gossipify. He writes about topics such as health, wellness, travel, food and home decor. He provides practical advice and inspiration to improve well-being, keeps readers up to date with latest lifestyle news and trends, known for his engaging writing style, in-depth analysis and unique perspectives.