Do you prefer using natural remedies when you or your children are sick? Now that research is suggesting that many over-the-counter medicines are not good for babies and young children, it is even more important to know how to use the plant-based medicines that nature offers.

I interviewed Certified Aromatherapist Laura Genoway to find out more about using essential oils. Laura has been educating people about the use of essential oils on a daily basis for more than 14 years. She maintains a private practice in San Anselmo, California where she offers consultations in-person and by telephone. Laura is an intuitive consultant, energy medicine practitioner, certified aromatherapist and massage therapist, and is passionate about offering support to individuals in their pursuit of healing, transformation and empowerment.

The Tranquil Parent: What are some common essential oil remedies that families can use during the cold/flu season?

Laura: When my daughter was younger, I used essential oils for everything: boo-boos, stuffy nose, earache, the flu. Using essential oils as a preventative especially at daycare and during cold season was such a blessing. I noticed that she rarely got sick and when she did, it was for shorter periods of time than other kids. Now that she is a teen, we still use essential oils for things like blemishes, colds and stress.

There are hundreds of essential oils on the market, which can be overwhelming, so I will try to keep it simple. For a basic family "first-aid" kit, I recommend these three essential oils: Lavender, Eucalyptus, and Tea Tree.

1. Lavender (lavendual angustifolia) or Lavandin (lavandula hybrida) are varieties of lavender that are very soothing and calming. They can be used to help everyone relax and get ready for bed. [Stay away from Spike Lavender it is a very different variety of plant and is too strong for kids and not relaxing.]


2. Eucalyptus (eucalyptus globulous or eucalyptus radiata) is a wonderful decongestant and helps to loosen phlegm. Good for upper and lower respiratory conditions.


3. Tea Tree (melaleuca alternifolia) has excellent antibacterial properties for injuries and adds those properties to any essential oil blend.

With these essential oils you can make:

Cold Season Blend: Mix equal parts (i.e. 10 drops) of each essential oil into a separate empty glass bottle. Add three drops of this blend to vaporizer water or use it in an aromatherapy diffuser.

Chest Rub Recipe: Put one ounce (two tablespoons) of thick, unscented cream or lotion into a small jar. Carefully drip 15-20 drops of the EO blend, and then stir until thoroughly incorporated. Apply a small amount of this cream to the upper chest to help with congestion and as a preventative during cold season.

TTP: How do you know what kind of essential oil to buy?

Laura: When purchasing essential oils, make sure that the plant’s botanical name is on the bottle and not just the common name, so that you know which oil you are using. In general, essential oils should be diluted in a lotion or oil before they are applied to the skin.

TTP: What safety precautions should be taken with essential oils and babies and children?

Laura: Essential oils should be taken seriously. They are potent, concentrated substances with hundreds of naturally occurring chemical constituents. Even though the essential oils mentioned here are safe for kids, they should always be kept out of reach to avoid ingestion or getting the oils in the eyes or other sensitive areas.

Always keep the dropper insert secured in the opening of the bottle. That way, if your child were to open the bottle and try to drink it, they would most likely only get a drop or two. In any case, if you suspect that your child may have been alone with an open bottle, call Poison Control to be on the safe side. If you do get essential oils into your eye or any other sensitive area, rinse thoroughly for several minutes to remove the oils. Note that because it has a lot of fat content and EOs are fat-soluble, flushing the area with milk works better than water.

Having said all of that, we never had any of those situations occur even with dozens of essential oils in the house and a routine of using them on a daily basis. The warnings are common sense. You would probably find far more dangerous substances under the kitchen sink in most homes.

TTP: Where can I get more info on essential oils?

Laura: Valerie Ann Worwood’s Aromatherapy for the Healthy Child and The Complete Book of Essential Oils and Aromatherapy; the National Association for Holistic Aromatherapy, Simpler’s Botanicals, and Original Swiss Aromatics are all good sources of information.

---

Do you have any favorite natural remedies? Share them in the comments!