Many holistic practitioners believe aromatherapy may alleviate hyperactivity in young children. However, children as young as 4 years of age should only receive treatment under the direct supervision of a trained aromatherapist, or healthcare professional. Some essential oils require additional dilution before using on small children. Similarly, the process of diluting essential oils should be done under the guidance of an aromatherapist.
Hyperactivity
Attention deficit hyperactivity disorder is considered to be a common childhood disorder. Some children are predominantly hyper-active impulsive but also exhibit symptoms of inattention. Alternative medical treatments such as aromatherapy may relieve some of the disorder's symptoms, but no cure exists. However, new treatments and interventions are being developed by researchers to explore more effective ways of treatment and prevention.
Facts
Roisin Walsh, a certified aromatherapy practitioner, and founder of New Leaf Holistic Therapies, says the essential oils beneficial for hyperactivity in small children include Bergamot, Roman Chamomile, Mandarin and Frankincense. In treating young children, dilution is key as is spreading the application out over a period of time. "In order to blend and achieve synergy with the essential oils, it is better to make a blend you can use over several days as you will be able to use a larger amount of carrier oil," she says. A carrier oil such as sweet almond or safflower oil can be used for dilution. Walsh recommends using 1 drop of Mandarin, 1 drop of Frankincense, and 1 drop of Roman Chamomile mixed in 2 ounces of a carrier oil.
Features
Walsh says Roman Chamomile essential oil is considered to be gentle and beneficial for treating a 4-year-old child. It has both sedative and anti-depressant properties. In addition, it helps relieve anxiety and stress. Bergamot is similar. "Bergamot has sedative qualities and its fresh, sweet smell is relaxing for children," she says. Mandarin soothes restlessness in hyperactive children. Walsh says Frankincense, and essential oil which also works as a sedative, is effective in alleviating anxiety and tension. In terms of application an electric aromatic diffuser can be used for a vaporizing effect, or the aromatherapy blend can be applied directly on the skin.
Considerations
As a result of their potency, essential oils are diluted to prevent an allergic reaction. Carrier oils used for dilution can be vegetable or olive based. The importance of working with a trained aromatherapist when diluting essential oils cannot be overemphasized. Walsh warns that Bergamot is photoxic, which means it has potential as a skin irritant if applied to the skin before exposure to sunlight.
References
- Aromatherapy. Paula Anne Ford-Martin. The Gale Encyclopedia of Medicine. Vol. 1. 3rd e; 2006.
- National Institute of Mental Health: "What is attention deficit hyperactivity disorder?"
- PubMed: Complementary and alternative medicine use in children with attention deficit hyperactivity disorder; 2005
- Roisin Walsh, accredited aromatherapist and founder of New Leaf Holistic Therapies; Dublin, Ireland
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