Aromatherapy is the practice of offering a holistic modality of healing through the sense of smell and through applications of therapeutic volatile oils. Aromatic oils have been in use since 400 B.C. and are felt by aromatherapists and holistic care providers to have many safe applications for young people's mental and physical ailments.
Acne
It is common for young people to experience skin breakouts, but the volatile oils found in lavender and tea tree essential oil have been shown in studies to effectively and gently reduce acne inflammation and infection according to aromatherapist Jeanne Rose. These oils are often found in natural acne care products and are so gentle that they can be applied directly to the skin without an additional carrier oil. However, as with any skin care product, it is always important to test for skin sensitivity. Should the skin prove to be too sensitive for direct application, a carrier oil such as extra virgin olive oil can be infused with the essential oils to deliver the healing benefits to the skin.
Test Anxiety
Social psychology studies at the University of Montana indicate that more children than ever suffer from test anxiety. Aromatherapist Jeanne Rose suggests the soothing essential oil of vanilla to calm anxious feelings. When mixed with a carrier oil, this essential oil can be applied to the wrists to deliver a relaxing and inconspicuous way to keep the scent close during a test.
Boredom
Parents across the nation have heard the words, "I'm bored!" at least once in their parenting journey. To stimulate an appetite for enjoying life in youth, "The Aromatherapy Book" suggests that a carrier oil can be infused with a mixture of cardamom and lemongrass essential oil. These oils are felt to be uplifting to the spirit and may inspire a bored child to have a brighter, more proactive outlook.
Colds
Surrounded by other young people, stressors, and germs, colds are a common occurrence during a person's youth. Eucalyptus essential oil is extremely volatile and antimicrobial; it can be used with a carrier oil to break up congestion and reduce the severity of the common cold and is recommended many holistic care providers, including naturopathic doctor Sarah Lane. It can be added to bathwater or applied to a child's chest and back to increase his breathing comfort when ill.
Wakefulness
When a young person has trouble sleeping, you can help her by adding a little lavender essential oil to her nighttime routine. Lavender has been shown in double blind studies at the Bastyr University, an accredited holistic college in Seattle Washington, to have a relaxing effect on the mind and body. It's gentle properties make it suitable for all ages and can be applied to the skin, a warming bath, or to a small pillow on a child's bed to help to promote a restful sleep.
References
- "The Aromatherapy Book"; Jeanne Rose; 1992
- "Health & Wellness Handbook"; The SouthWestern Company; 2005
- "Organic Body Care Recipes: 175 Homeade Herbal Formulas for Glowing Skin & a Vibrant Self" ;Stephanie Tourles;2007
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