Back to School Health Advice

As many parents breathe a sigh of relief that the summer holidays are finally drawing to a close, I've pulled together my top natural health tips to ensure that your child’s new school year goes as smoothly as possible.

Fatigue and lack of concentration
This tends to affect older children and is a physical and mental state which results in underperformance, lethargy and emotional problems relating to frustration. Fatigue can be a symptom of more serious health problems so it is always wise to see a GP if the condition is of concern. Aromatherapy can however be very effective in managing the symptoms of fatigue. The best-known mental stimulant is probably Peppermint Oil (it is not in your early morning toothpaste, your conference mint or your after-dinner chocolate without reason). When treating children I invariably use Spearmint Oil which has the same physiological impact as Peppermint but has a gentler effect on the system and seems more readily tolerated by children.

Other stimulants include Citrus Oils (the Japanese have always dispersed these into the atmosphere of their factories because it is believed to maintain concentration). I most commonly prescribe the more gentle Green Mandarin for children (as well as adults who may be more physically and mentally fragile) which is ideal for fatigue or when they’re feeling a little bit low. In addition to their uplifting effects Citrus Oils have also been shown to stimulate the white blood cells which are responsible for fighting infection and it is a well known fact that fatigue so often accompanies a lowered immune system. For a ready made, energising citrus boost try Potions & Possibilities’ Fatigue Relief Balm (15g £4.99) with Lemongrass, Geranium and Grapefruit. Alternatively, to focus the mind, try our Concentration Relief Balm with Palmarosa, Green Mandarin and English Violet (15g £4.99).

Note: Stimulant oils don’t just stimulate the mind and body; they can over-stimulate the skin (i.e. cause sensitization). It is therefore vital to spot test first or use in a burner or electric oil disperser.If you are looking for a stimulating blend to use in a burner that will have the necessary stimulating mental and physical effect but also smell attractive then try 6 drops of Green Mandarin with 2 drops of Black Pepper and 3 drops of Palmarosa.

Hyperactivity
Essential oils can be a safe and effective way of moderating the negative aspects of hyperactive behaviour without losing the underlying drive which will be such an asset to the child in later life.
Whilst every case is different, I do find that the oil I most commonly use is Frankincense which is particularly useful for treating anxiety and hyperactivity. Frankincense is known to slow down and deepen the breathing and with its warm spicy scent this oil is renowned for its ability to relax the mind whilst inducing a ‘higher state’ of consciousness.

While Frankincense is a sedative it is not overwhelming in a “must sleep now” way that is so often reported by users of Lavender. If it is to be used in the daytime, particularly at school where we are aiming for calm focused behaviour but not lethargy, I would balance it with a slight citrus, uplifting edge. Bergamot, Green Mandarin or Palmarosa are all good choices.

Sleep
To prepare both mind and body for a more restful night’s sleep try a soothing blend of Lavender and Chamomile. Lavender is renowned for its sedative effect and Chamomile is one of the
best oils available for treating children. It is a profoundly soothing oil that can induce sleep in even the most difficult children. The scent can be a little too medicinal for some children, if so, sweeten it with a touch of Ylang Ylang, or cover it with rich, pungent Geranium.

For an off the shelf solution try Potions & Possibilities’ And to Sleep Bath & Shower Gel with Lavender, Chamomile and English Violet or our Sleepy Prince and Sleepy Princess Top to Toe Wash which has the added protection of Tea Tree (200ml £8.99). You could also apply our And to Sleep Pulse Point Balm just prior to bed (15g £4.99).

Eczema and Dry Skin
For mild conditions use Chamomile (known as nature’s steroid) in Almond Oil and massage in regularly. Assuming the condition is not linked to a dairy intolerance mix Chamomile with a tablespoonful of milk and add to the bath. Milk is a natural dispersant and will prevent the oil forming into concentrated globules.

Illness and infection

Schools are a breeding ground for lots of different viruses and infections. There are a number of essential oils that will stimulate the immune system to provide better protection and Tea Tree is the best known. Like Chamomile it is not always a popular scent with children so I tend to recommend it in conjunction with something that they will love such as May Chang. Put a few drops on to the front of their shirts or place a hanky with some essential oil on close to their beds at night (Note: most 100% pure essential oils do not stain but it is wise not to apply them to their best designer clothes).

Serious illness should always be referred to a GP however for mild everyday infections where you would prefer not to use antibiotics then essential oils can be very effective. Lavender is also a powerful antiseptic and most citrus oils, particularly Lemon, have anti-viral properties.

Head Lice
I can’t move away from Tea Tree without mentioning head lice. Blended into a normal shampoo and used regularly Tea Tree will protect against infestation. If you are trying to clear nits then use it with a fragrance free therapeutic shampoo made up fresh for every wash, or try Potions & Possibilities’ Tea Tree & Geranium Shampoo (200ml £7.99) A Head Lice Information Sheet is available from info@potions.co.uk.

Professional tip
Tea Tree is extremely well known and there is a lot of substandard, cut (diluted) or overage stock on the market. If you are intending to use it for treatment it must be 100% pure and therapeutic grade.

How to use Essential Oils
One of the most common questions that I am asked in relation to treating children is “once I have decided on my oils or blend of oils how do I apply the treatment and what quantities do I use.”

As with conventional medicine the objective is to introduce the substance into the blood stream. Inhalation and skin absorption are two of the fastest ways and therefore a variety of methods (as follows) can be used.

Add 4-10 drops to the bath after it has finished running. (For children or individuals with sensitive skin add to a tablespoonful of milk and then add that to the bath - as it improves dispersion).

Add 2 drops per tablespoon of Sweet Almond Oil or good quality Olive Oil and massage into the affected area or back.

Add 2 drops to a tablespoonful of fragrance free shampoo or bath and shower gel, blend in the palm of the hand and wash as normal.

At night put 2 drops onto the pillow or the front of night clothes or onto a nearby handkerchief.

Put 4 – 6 drops into a small dish of water on top of an Aromatherapy burner.

Put the oils on to a tissue and breathe in the aroma or put the oils on a hanky and lay on a nearby radiator.

Note: With children it is important to adapt the quantities according to weight. The above guidelines are based on the treatment of an individual weighing 10 stones (64 kilos) so the quantities will need adjusting according to the weight of the child. If using oil burners for therapeutic reasons then avoid china or glass or anything with a very small dish. Do not leave unattended or use for the treatment of a small child.

Hope you find this useful. Email me direct if you have any further questions.

Regards

Julie Foster
Aromatherapist