Lavender Oil (9 page)
Authors: Julia Lawless
Chickenpox can be accompanied by severe pain, usually before the rash appears, and there may be a fever. It is particularly dangerous for adults, as it is accompanied by a high temperature and pain.
Use lavender in vaporizers throughout the duration of the illness.
Soak frequently in tepid water for 10–15 minutes at a time, every few hours if possible. For babies dissolve 2 drops of tea tree and 1 drop of lavender (or chamomile) in 1 tsp of alcohol; for use in the bath for children dissolve 3 drops of tea tree and 2 drops of lavender (or chamomile) in 1 tsp alcohol; for adults dissolve 5 drops tea tree and 5 drops of lavender (or chamomile) in 1 tsp alcohol.
Dissolve 25 (15 for children) drops of tea tree and 10 (5 for children) drops each of lavender and chamomile in one dessertspoon of alcohol, then mix with 50 ml rosewater and 50 ml witchhazel. Shake well before using – apply frequently to spots using a cotton wool or gauze pad.
Note:
this treatment is not suitable for young babies.
Other measures: a handful of colloidal oatmeal (available from most chemists) may also be added to the bath water to soothe itching and encourage healing. Tea tree is the most valuable oil for chickenpox, applied in the same fashion as lavender, or in combination.
See also
Herpes
Children’s Ailments
Due to its low toxicity level, lavender is especially suited to the treatment of childhood complaints such as colic, tummy ache, cuts, stings and sores. Lavender is also one of the few essential oils which can be used safely for young children and for a variety of common complaints. Since most children like the smell of lavender, it is also a good choice for bathtime, in a massage oil or as a vaporizer in a child’s room.
Babies and infants respond especially well to natural healing methods, but their extra sensitivity must be taken into account. Do not attempt to substitute a home remedy for professional treatment if it is needed. Amounts used should accord with the age of the child.
Babies (0–12 months) | 1 drop of lavender diluted in 1 tsp carrier oil for massage or bathing |
Infants (1–5 years) | 2–3 drops of lavender diluted in 1 tsp carrier oil for massage or bathing |
Children (6–12 years) | 5–6 drops for bathing, or diluted in 1 tbs carrier oil for massage |
Teenagers (over 12 years) | use as for adults |
Nappy (diaper) rash in babies and infants can be prevented by regular bathing using 1 drop of lavender diluted in 1 tsp carrier oil. If nappy rash does occur, add 1 drop each of lavender and tea tree to a non-greasy baby cream.
Restlessness, hyperactivity and insomnia in babies, infants and older children can be alleviated by the use of lavender in the bath or for massage as directed above. Alternatively use a vaporizer in the bedroom (ensure it is out of reach), or put a drop or two of oil on the pillow or on the child’s pyjamas or nightie.
Tummy ache or colic in babies, infants and older children can be eased by mixing 1–3 drops of lavender in 1 tsp carrier oil and gently massaging the lower back or stomach in a clockwise direction.
Teething pain in babies and infants can be relieved by mixing 1 drop of lavender in 1 tsp of carrier oil and massaging onto the outer cheek.
Cradle cap is an unsightly scalp condition which affects very young babies, especially the newborn. A thick, yellowish crust develops on the scalp and there is often scaling behind the ears. Mix fresh for each treatment 5 drops of lavender oil with 1 dessertspoon of slightly warmed olive oil and rub this gently into the scalp. Leave for 5–10 minutes then wash out using lavender shampoo (the scalp may remain slightly oily after treatment). Take care to avoid the eyes while rinsing. Repeat daily initially, then continue using lavender shampoo as part of the baby’s
normal routine to prevent a recurrence. (Tea tree oil is also effective for cradle cap when used in the same fashion).
For cuts, spots, insect bites and other skin blemishes for infants over 1 year old, apply 1 drop of neat lavender.