Benefits of Aromatherapy for Babies

Aromatherapy for babies is not that uncommon. Parents use it all the time with their children. Babies can't do a whole lot when they are first born, but something they can do is smell. The sense of smell is one of the first senses that a baby develops. It only takes a few days before a baby can identify its mother from only her scent.

Smells help comfort all children, from babies to teenagers. If you are having to leave your baby at daycare, you can leave one of your shirts for the baby to snuggle with. If you are sending a child away to college this same trick works (though the college kid probably wouldn't admit to it!).

Using aromatherapy for babies will help them be comforted and add to the familiar smells that relax and calm the baby. Another benefit of essential oils is that it can help boost a child's immune system and in turn, help prevent sickness and infection.

A few common essential oils you can try for small babies include:

1. Chamomile -This is one of the most common oils used in children. It is gentle and not as toxic as many others. It can be used for many things including colic, teething and some skin issues.

2. Lavender -Lavender works great for coughs and colds. It soothes headaches, stomach aches and ear infections. It also works well in preventing scarring when rubbed on cuts and sores.

3. Rose - This is used as an antidepressant, anti-inflammatory, antiseptic, sedative, and is useful for soothing dry, irritated skin

4. Lemon - Lemon is very acidic and therefore is a great antiseptic. It makes for a good antibacterial rub and is a great first aid remedy for insect bites. Lemon Eucalyptus is also perfect for rubbing on baby's scalp to prevent and treat cradle cap.

The best way to use these oils on babies is through massage. Massaging babies is great for the parent and the child. It provides great one on one time and bonding time for everyone involved. Babies that are massaged regularly tend to be more relaxed, eat and sleep better, and have less colic and constipation. All babies love skin on skin contact and if you add the benefits of the aromatherapy you'll be doing your part to raise a relaxed and well centered baby.

Besides massage, you can also put oils in a vaporizer or mix with water and spray around the room. (A bigger child may like to help with spraying.) You could even drop a few drops on a handkerchief and simply wave it near the baby.

Aromatherapy for babies is a great way to improve your baby's whole body, well being. These natural soothing techniques will calm and soothe your baby which in turn, will calm and soothe the tired parents and caregivers.