Essential oils have been used for centuries to promote healing and wellbeing, and their popularity has surged in recent years. Parents of children with autism often turn to essential oils to help alleviate some of the symptoms associated with the condition, such as anxiety, hyperactivity, and difficulty sleeping. While essential oils are not a cure for autism, research has shown that they can have a positive impact on a child's overall wellbeing.

 

 

Essential oils are a popular choice for parents of children with autism and ADHD who are looking for natural ways to help alleviate symptoms. Studies have shown that essential oils can have a positive impact on children's overall wellbeing by reducing anxiety, promoting relaxation, improving sleep quality, and increasing focus and concentration. Some of the most effective essential oils for autism and ADHD include lavender, chamomile, peppermint, frankincense, vetiver, cedarwood, and ylang ylang oil.

 

One study conducted in 2017 found that aromatherapy with essential oils significantly reduced anxiety and stress levels in children with autism. Another study from 2018 found that the use of essential oils improved sleep quality and duration in children with autism. While these studies are promising, it's important to note that essential oils should be used in conjunction with other therapies and treatments, and not as a replacement.

 

 

When it comes to choosing essential oils for children with autism, it's important to do your research and consult with a qualified aromatherapist or healthcare provider. Some oils, such as lavender and chamomile, are known for their calming properties and are often used to help children with autism relax and sleep better. Peppermint oil, on the other hand, is known for its energising properties and can be helpful in reducing hyperactivity.

 

In addition to lavender, chamomile, and peppermint oil, there are several other essential oils that can be helpful for children with autism and ADHD. Frankincense oil is known for its calming and grounding effects, and may help children with ADHD focus and concentrate better. Vetiver oil is also known for its grounding properties and is often used to help children with ADHD who struggle with hyperactivity and impulsivity.

 

Cedarwood oil is another oil that can be beneficial for children with ADHD, as it has a calming effect on the nervous system and may help improve focus and concentration. Ylang ylang oil is another oil that can be helpful for children with autism and ADHD, as it is known to reduce anxiety and promote relaxation.

 

It's important to note that every child is unique, and what works for one child may not work for another. It's best to work with a qualified aromatherapist or healthcare provider to determine which essential oils may be most helpful for your child's specific needs.

 

As always, it's important to dilute essential oils properly and use them with caution and diluted properly before use. Undiluted essential oils can cause skin irritation and other adverse reactions, and some oils can be toxic if ingested. Always follow the recommended guidelines for safe use of essential oils, and be sure to store them out of reach of children.

 

In conclusion, essential oils can be a valuable tool in a holistic approach to treating autism and ADHD in children. They can help alleviate symptoms and promote overall wellbeing, but should not be used as a replacement for other therapies or treatments. With the right guidance and care, essential oils can be a safe and effective way to support your child's health and happiness. So, consider incorporating essential oils into your child's daily routine and see if they experience any benefits.

 

 

 

 

 

Note: The study conducted in 2017 can be found in the Journal of Alternative and Complementary Medicine, and is titled "Aromatherapy for Managing Neuropsychiatric Symptoms in Children with Autism: A Pilot Randomized Controlled Trial." The study in 2018 can be found in the Journal of Evidence-Based Integrative Medicine, and is titled "The Effect of Aromatherapy with Lavender Essential Oil on Sleep in Children with Autism Spectrum Disorder: A Randomized Clinical Trial."

 

WARNING: It is important to exercise extreme caution when considering the use of peppermint essential oil on infants. Robert Tisserand, a renowned expert in the field of aromatherapy, has extensively researched the safety of essential oils and provided valuable insights in his book "Essential Oil Safety". According to Tisserand, peppermint essential oil contains high levels of menthol, which can have a cooling and refreshing effect when inhaled by adults and older children. However, in infants, these cooling properties can potentially cause unwanted respiratory side effects. The menthol in peppermint oil has the potential to stimulate cold receptors int he airways, leading to a reflexive constriction of the muscles surrounding the bronchioles, which are the small airways in the lungs. This constriction can result in breathing difficulties, especially in young infants whose airways are still developing. Therefore, it is strongly advised to avoid using peppermint essential oil on infants and seek alternative options that are considered safe for their age group. 

It is crucial to prioritise the health and wellbeing of infants, and being aware of the potential risks associated with the specific essential oils can help ensure their safety. Always consult with a qualified healthcare professional or aromatherapist who can provide personalised guidance on safe and appropriate essential oil usage, particularly for infants and young children.