According to pediatric specialist, Dr. William Sears, an infant's bronchial system is very delicate due to his recent emergence into the oxygen-breathing world. As the sensitive immune system builds up tolerance to airborne germs and bacteria, it is highly vulnerable to attack. Aromatherapists believe that essential oils, such as eucalyptus oil, offer a non-toxic way of enhancing an infant's well-being as he grows tolerant of his living environment.
Eucalyptus Steam
The dried or fresh leaves of the eucalyptus tree can be added to a pot of simmering water during the winter months to provide a soothing herbal steam in your infant's environment. The volatile oils of eucalyptus leaves contain antimicrobial and antibacterial substances that may help prevent possible infection during cold and flu season.
Baths
Aromatherapist Jeanne Rose suggests using 8 drops eucalyptus essential oil in a warm bath for congested infants; the volatile nature of eucalyptus essential oil can ease congestion in the sinuses. Any infant that displays difficulty breathing should be taken to his health care provider to rule out more serious illnesses.
Massage
If you wish to use eucalyptus essential oil as a complementary treatment for your infant's bronchial infection, "The Aromatherapy Book" suggests combining 10 drops eucalyptus essential oil, 8 drops thyme essential oil and 6 drops basil essential oil in 1/2 cup extra virgin olive oil for a soothing infant chest massage.
Be sure to use therapeutic grade essential oils instead of eucalyptus "scented" products. Real essential oils have healing elements that are different than scents alone. Not all products labeled "aromatherapy" include authentic essential oils; these "faux" scents do not have the same benefits as essential oils.
Cool Steam Diffuser
Adding eucalyptus essential oil to a cool steam diffuser delivers a powerful aromatic mist to your baby's nursery throughout the night. If your baby is having trouble breathing, Dr. William Sears suggests the use of a "co-sleeper" so that you can easily monitor baby's breathing throughout the night to reduce the risk of SIDS. If your infant's breathing seems to be adversely affected by the use of eucalyptus, he may be allergic to it and another volatile essential oil may be indicated. Contact your holistic care provider for an acceptable substitution.
Human Diffuser
Applying a thin layer of olive oil that has been infused with eucalyptus essential oil to your own chest region can be an effective way of delivering respiratory benefits to a very young infant while you carry him. Baby-wearing is a soothing way for moms and dads to care for an ill infant, and this can be done with the assistance of sling-type carriers that have been certified for safety.
As you carry your infant, she will benefit from the close contact and she will be able to breathe the volatile essential oil of eucalyptus on your skin. If you are a breastfeeding mother, be sure to avoid the breast and nipple area when applying essential oil to your chest.
References
- "The Baby Book"; William Sears; 2002
- "The Aromatherapy Book"; Jeanne Rose; 1992
- "Homeopathic Self Care"; Robert and Judyth Ullman, N.D.; 1997
Member Comments