Essential Oils 101: Exactly How and When to Use Them

Essential Oils 101: Exactly How and When to Use Them

Essential Oils can be really confusing.

When I first started using essential oils, I had a ton of questions and concerns—and I didn’t always know where to find reliable answers. That’s why we want to give you some insider tips and clear guidance so you can enjoy essential oils safely and confidently!

Assorted essential oil bottles and a family relaxing together.

Here are a few hard-and-fast rules to get you started:

Rule 1: Always Dilute for Children

Children are more sensitive than adults, and their smaller systems require gentler use. Essential oils are incredibly concentrated—just a little goes a long way.

  • Babies (3–12 months): Dilute 1 drop of essential oil in 2 teaspoons of carrier oil.

  • Children (1–5 years): Dilute 4 drops of essential oil in 2 teaspoons of carrier oil.

Rule 2: Never Ingest Essential Oils

Did you know that 1 drop of peppermint essential oil is equivalent to about 28 cups of peppermint tea? Because essential oils are so potent, ingesting them can disrupt your body’s delicate systems. Stick to topical use or diffusion for safety.

Rule 3: Store Properly

Keep essential oils away from direct sunlight and out of children’s reach. Sunlight can break down the oils, reducing their potency and effectiveness.

Top Oils to Keep on Hand

Lavender Oil

Often called the “Swiss army knife” of essential oils, lavender has endless uses. It can be diluted for:

  • Soothing skin irritations

  • Calming bug bites

  • Adding to Epsom salts for a relaxing bath

  • Diffusing to create a peaceful, restful environment

Peppermint Oil

A little goes a long way with peppermint! When diluted in a carrier oil, it can be used to:

  • Massage sore muscles or the back of the neck

  • Apply to temples and forehead for headache relief

  • Inhale for sinus congestion and refreshing aromatherapy

Essential oils are powerful tools, but like any potent remedy, safety and proper use matter. With these basic rules, you can start incorporating essential oils into your family’s wellness routine confidently!

For more tips and uses for Essential Oils, visit our FAQ Page.

Brooke Summers

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