Is Lavender Oil Safe for Babies?
Lavender has been utilized for perfume, cleaning products, and even alternative medications throughout history. It was a mainstay for moms in the past, and although no mother could establish its uses or benefits, it was known to many to reduce anxiety and improve sleep for both the mother and her child.
Recently essential oils like lavender have regained popularity. Especially for medicinal uses, and lavender is one of the most commonly used. But is lavender oil safe for babies? And how can it help them if it is? Read on to learn more.
The herb lavender is well known for its capacity to increase relaxation and encourage sound sleep. Lavender is a safe alternative for babies when used properly, making it a flexible choice for both babies and children. You should always use caution when using plant-based medicine, just as you do when using conventional medications.
The Science Behind Lavender Oil for Babies
The suprachiasmatic nucleus, or SCN, is a nerve of cells in the middle of the brain (source). It is directly above the junction of the eye’s optic nerves and the brain. This is significant because it adjusts the SCN for day and night. Melatonin synthesis is triggered by the SCN’s perception of darkness. Throughout the night, melatonin is produced until light prompts the SCN to stop.
Baby’s circadian rhythm is established by the natural cycle of night and day; in essence, it functions as a biological clock for genes, hormones, and other factors that control various behaviors.
Since babies spend their entire time in the womb in darkness, their internal clocks gradually set after birth. That implies that a baby doesn’t normally sleep like a baby!
How might lavender help? A biological habit will be formed and the baby’s circadian cycle will be set by a schedule that has fairly regular times for naps, meals, and bedtime. Warm baths before you want the baby to sleep can therefore aid in baby relaxation while also acting as a circadian cue to their body that it is time to wind down.
This cue can be strengthened by including lavender essential oil in the bath ritual. It has a long history of being known for promoting calmness, improved sleep, and relaxation.
Other Uses of Lavender Oil for Babies
Helping Baby sleep better is just one of the possible uses for lavender essential oil for babies. The benefits of premium lavender essential oil products are immediately experienced by the nose, but they also improve and soothe the skin.
Lavender contains a wealth of calming substances that treat wounds, calm allergic reactions, prevent infections, and relieve eczema. According to studies, lavender soothes the discomfort and itching associated with insect bites, bee stings, and skin irritations. And because lavender is so soothing and delicate, even sensitive skin usually tolerates it, and baby’s certainly have sensitive skin!
Using Lavender Oil for Babies Safely
Going back to the question of is lavender oil safe for babies, you do need to ensure that you make use of it safely and sparingly. As oil and water do not mix it should not be added to their bath water, but a drop or two can be added to a baby moisturizer or you can make your own baby massage oil by mixing a few drops of lavender essential oil with a safe carrier oil like coconut oil or almond oil.
