Benefits of Aromatherapy

Caring for Your Littlest Loved Ones: Benefits of Aromatherapy

One of the most intimidating parts of having a baby is trying to keep their fragile little immune systems as healthy as possible as they grow. Everybody takes care of their children's health in different ways; Some families have their age-old chicken soup recipe that has been passed down for generations, while others opt for more quirky methods like eating garlic or putting on a pair of wets socks. We however, always choose the natural and least invasive method when it comes to our families: Aromatherapy (We adults swear by it too!) 

Aromatherapy is when natural extracts from plants, that create smells, are used to improve the health of a person’s body and mind. Aromatherapy works wonders for a person's body by being able to improve sleep quality, reduce anxiety, boost immunity and so much more. Depending on what the extract is, aromatherapy can even help treat depression.

And now onto the good stuff… How exactly does this practice benefit help your littlest ones?

We’re going to give you the rundown on the two most crucial scents that we strongly believe every parent should be using: Lavender and Eucalyptus & Menthol

Lavender

Lavender is a beautiful purple plant native to the eastern half of the globe. The perfect word to describe this scent, taken from flowers, would be calming. Studies show that when experiencing pain, the babies who smelled lavender felt much less pain and had lower heart rates. The scent is perfect for calming and putting babies to sleep. And last, but definitely not least, lavender can help to reduce colic symptoms in babies. We know… that’s quite a major fun fact we just sprung on you! (You’re welcome)  

Fresh bunch of Lavender 

Eucalyptus & Menthol 

Both eucalyptus and menthol are scents taken directly from leaves of the eucalyptus plant and mint family plants. They have been used in medicines for centuries because of their disinfectant properties. Along with that the oils help to loosen up phlegm and clear congestion, having been proven to be just as effective as over the counter or prescribed medications. Note that the FDA strongly recommends that over-the-counter (OTC) cough and cold products should not be used for infants and children under 2 years of age because serious and potentially life-threatening side effects could occur. 

And there you have it- some of the many reasons why we absolutely love aromatherapy!

Remember that there are many different ways to show people you love them; A great one being to check in on them and make sure they are taking care of their health, both mentally and physically. And now you have a great new natural method to help!

Sources:
https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pubmed/27315487
https://onlinelibrary.wiley.com/doi/full/10.1111/j.1440-172X.2012.02015.x
https://www.healthline.com/health/what-is-aromatherapy#benefits
https://www.fda.gov/consumers/consumer-updates/otc-cough-and-cold-products-not-infants-and-children-under-2-years-age