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Essential oils are highly concentrated extracts from plants that are known for their therapeutic properties. These oils have been used for centuries to promote relaxation, improve mood, and support overall well-being. Essential oils have gained popularity for their potential benefits in children with sensory processing disorder.
Aromatherapy and essential oils do not provide a cure for diseases or illness but they may support you with the symptoms of various conditions. Essential oils have been known to reduce symptoms such as anxiety, depression, stress, pain, body aches, nausea, headaches, insomnia and fatigue.
Always ask your healthcare professional for which oils are right for you and your family.
Aromatherapy is a holistic approach and if you meet with an aromatherapist they would consult with you about your health, history and also your families too. They may suggest different oils or blends for your family that are best suited for each individual's physical and mental needs.
Calming Sensory Differences with Essential Oils
Children with sensory processing disorder can have a hard time regulating their emotions and responses to sensory input. Essential oils can be a valuable tool in calming their nervous system and reducing stress levels. Oils like lavender, cedarwood, and vetiver have been found to have a calming effect on the nervous system, making them ideal for children with sensory differences, diffusing them in a room can have a calming effect on children with sensory differences.
Supporting Cognitive Function with Essential Oils
Essential oils can also improve cognitive function in children with sensory processing disorder. Certain oils like peppermint, rosemary, and lemon have been found to improve focus and concentration, making them beneficial for children with attention deficit hyperactivity disorder (ADHD).
Olfactory Sensory Activities with Essential Oils
The olfactory system, or the sense of smell, plays a vital role in sensory integration. It is responsible for processing and interpreting different scents and their associated emotions. Children with sensory processing disorder can benefit greatly from olfactory sensory activities using essential oils. These activities can help them become more aware of their sense of smell and learn to regulate their responses to different scents.
Beginner’s Guide to Essential Oils for Sensory Needs
If you are considering using essential oils for your child with sensory processing disorder, here are a few things to keep in mind:
Quality Matters: Ensure that you are purchasing high-quality, pure essential oils from a trusted source. Low-quality oils may contain harmful additives and may not have the desired therapeutic effects.
Dilute Appropriately: Essential oils are highly concentrated and should always be diluted before use, especially when using them on children. Dilute them with a carrier oil like coconut or almond oil to prevent skin irritation. (always consult a professional)
Patch Test: Before using any essential oil on your child's skin, it is essential to conduct a patch test to ensure that they are not allergic to the oil after you have spoken to a healthcare professional.
Use Diffusers Safely: When diffusing essential oils, make sure the room is well-ventilated, and your child is not exposed to the diffuser for prolonged periods.
Best Essential Oils for Sensory Processing Disorder, Autism, and ADHD
There are several essential oils to choose from when it comes to supporting your child's sensory needs. Some of the best essential oils for sensory processing disorder, autism, and ADHD include:
Lavender: Calming and relaxing, lavender is known to reduce stress and improve sleep.
Cedarwood: Soothing and grounding, cedarwood can help children feel more grounded and centered.
Peppermint: Refreshing and stimulating, peppermint can help improve focus and concentration.
Vetiver: Grounding and reassuring, vetiver can help reduce sensory overload and promote relaxation.
Frankincense: Soothing and calming, frankincense is beneficial for children with hyperactivity and can help improve focus.
Essential oils have been used for thousands of years to improve a persons health and mood. Essential oils are believed to have antifungal, insecticidal, antioxidant and antiviral properties.
Essential oil applications can include massage, topical applications and inhalation. Be aware that natural products also have chemicals and they can be dangerous if used the wrong way. This is why it is very important to follow the advice of a trained professional.
Essential oils are never directly applied to skin. They must always be diluted with carrier oil. A few drops of oil to an ounce of carrier oil.
I have been using essential oils for several years. I have been doing some research to find the best and most safe oils for children. These essential oils were created to be safe for children. I have included directions and ingredients with each.
Essential oils can be a valuable tool in supporting children with sensory processing disorder. It is essential to remember that essential oils are not a cure for sensory differences.
Always consult with a healthcare professional before using essential oils on your child, and remember to use them safely and appropriately. With the right oils and proper usage, essential oils can be a safe, natural way to support your child's sensory needs.
Before using or applying any essential oils its very important to speak to a trained professional about the oils you are considering to use as each oil will have different instructions for use. A professional would be able to tell you if that oil should be applied to skin, where it should be applied, how much should be applied, if it shouldn't be applied or if it needs to be diluted first.
Essential oils, like medications shouldn't be used without consulting a pharmacist, physician, nurse, therapist or a trained aromatherapist.
Swallowing essential oils can be a hazard and be fatal in some cases. If oils are mixed with carrier oils you should always tell the aromatherapist about allergies because carrier oils often are made from nuts and seeds.
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DISCLAIMER: I have learned a lot over the years but I am still learning. Always do your own research and exercise sound judgment. I am not an occupational therapist or a physician. I am an adult who has sensory processing disorder, a sensory parent and a Grandma. The information on this website is not medical advice and does not replace the information that your child's therapists or medical professionals give you. These are just ideas that I have learned myself over the years of being a parent and an adult living with SPD. If you are concerned for your child, please always seek medical attention through a family doctor, pediatrician or therapist. This website is for awareness and support purposes only. Each child is different and what works for one child may not for another because all children have different sensory needs. Please always consult with a professional.
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