Throughout our lives we have become familiar with the pleasure that comes from an enjoyable smell, whether it’s the fragrance of a flower or a food, or a scent we associate with good memories. Most of these smells are experienced when we are younger and we automatically learn that smells play an important role in our lives.

There are various theories as to how exactly aromatherapy works, but some believe that by activating specific smell receptors in the nose, aromatherapy causes the brain to send messages to areas of the nervous system that affect mood and other symptoms.

So, how can aromatherapy help your child? Aromatherapy can help calm a child who is anxious or under stress, reduce nausea, discomfort and pain, and promote healthy sleep.

There are several aromatherapy oils that have been determined to be both safe and effective for use with children over age 5: lavender, peppermint, orange and ginger are just to name a few.

Lavender is one that most parents may want to try first. Many children like the smell, and it is generally effective in calming a child who is anxious. Children have no problem is letting you know if they simple do not like the smell. Enjoy the aroma journey.