Essential Oil Safety for Children: 10 Things Every Parent Should Know
Essential oils can be a useful part of an appropriately planned aromatherapy routine, but when it comes to children, safety must always come first.
Perhaps you're considering an aromatherapy rollerball for your child, wondering about using a diffuser at home, or looking for a gentle addition to their bedtime routine. You might also be unsure which oils are suitable, how they should be diluted, or whether they are appropriate for a child with additional needs or a medical condition.
These are all sensible questions to ask.
I'm Fiona, a qualified aromatherapist with 29 years' experience. I've worked in special education for 26 years, including 16 years as a specialist aromatherapist within special education, supporting autistic and neurodivergent children and young people with SEND and complex needs.
Over the years, I've learnt that safe aromatherapy is about much more than choosing an oil that smells lovely.
It's about understanding the oil, the child, the method of use and the circumstances in which it will be used.
Here are ten important things every parent and carer should know.
1. Essential oils are highly concentrated — and safety matters
Essential oils are concentrated aromatic extracts from plants. Although they come from natural sources, that doesn't automatically make them harmless.
Essential oils can be harmful if swallowed, applied undiluted or used inappropriately. Depending on the oil and the exposure, they can cause irritation, allergic reactions, poisoning or other adverse effects.
Children aren't simply smaller adults. Their age, development, health and individual sensitivities all matter when considering whether aromatherapy is appropriate.
My advice is simple: don't assume an oil is safe because it's natural, sold over the counter or recommended in an online post.
Before using an essential oil with a child, understand what it is, how it will be used and what precautions apply.
2. Are essential oils safe for children?
They can be used in some circumstances, but not every oil, product or method is appropriate for every child.
Safety depends on several factors, including:
The child's age and individual circumstances.
The particular essential oil and its concentration.
Whether it will be used on the skin or experienced through the air.
The child's allergies, sensitivities and medical history.
The frequency and duration of exposure.
A product marketed for adults shouldn't automatically be used on a child, and a blend suitable for one age group may not be suitable for another.
For children, I recommend consulting a suitably qualified aromatherapist with experience in paediatric practice before introducing essential oils applied to the skin.
Where a child has complex medical or sensory needs, their healthcare professional may also need to be involved.
A real-life example from my work
In my school, I regularly use a particular essential oil as part of my approach to supporting pupils with regulation. Many of the young people become familiar with the aroma, and it can form part of a predictable routine.
But I remember one particular young lady who absolutely hated the smell. Her verdict?
“It's yuck!”
Fair enough! 😂
Rather than expecting her to get used to an aroma she clearly disliked, I provided smell pots so she could explore different scents and find one she actually enjoyed.
It's a simple example, but it illustrates something I feel very strongly about: an oil that one child responds positively to won't necessarily be right for another.
Choice matters, and a child's response should always guide our approach.
3. Age matters — there is no universal recipe for children
One of the biggest mistakes is assuming that the same essential oil blend can be used for a baby, a toddler and an older child simply by changing the amount.
Age matters, but it isn't the only consideration.
Some essential oils are unsuitable for young children, and particular oils may have age restrictions or other precautions depending on the method of use.
Babies and very young children need especially cautious consideration. Their skin, airways and ability to communicate discomfort differ from those of older children.
It's also important to remember that a child may not be able to explain that an aroma is making them feel unwell. Changes in behaviour, distress, coughing or attempts to move away should never be ignored.
There isn't one recipe or dilution percentage that is right for every child and every oil. Appropriate guidance needs to consider the specific essential oil, the child's age and the intended use.
4. Dilution matters — never apply essential oils neat
This is one of my biggest safety messages.
Essential oils should not be applied undiluted to a child's skin.
They are concentrated substances and can cause irritation, sensitisation or other harmful reactions. Applying an oil neat isn't a shortcut to better results; it can increase the risk of harm.
For topical use, essential oils must be diluted appropriately in a suitable carrier, such as a vegetable oil. The correct dilution depends on the child's age, the essential oils selected, the intended application and any relevant contraindications.
Don't guess the dilution, copy an adult recipe or assume that adding a few drops to a product makes it safe.
Also, don't assume that a product is suitable for children simply because it is labelled “natural” or “gentle”.
If you're considering an aromatherapy rollerball or massage oil for your child, check that it has been formulated for the intended age group and use. If you aren't sure, ask a qualified aromatherapist with relevant experience.
Why familiarity and consistency matter
There's another reason I pay attention to familiarity and consistency. Over time, a child may begin to associate a familiar aroma with a particular routine or experience.
I've had pupils who recognise the aroma of an oil I use with them and appear to settle as soon as they smell it. For me, it's a fascinating example of how an established sensory association may become part of a familiar experience.
Smell has close connections with brain systems involved in memory and emotion, so it's understandable that a familiar scent can bring a feeling or memory to mind.
However, responses vary between individuals, and this shouldn't be taken to mean that an essential oil will automatically calm every child.
It's one reason I value consistency — while always remembering that the aroma must be appropriate and welcomed by the individual.
5. Store essential oils securely, cool and away from light
Essential oils should always be stored safely, away from children and pets.
I recommend keeping them in their original, clearly labelled containers, with lids securely closed, in a cool, dark place and away from direct sunlight and heat.
Most importantly, keep essential oils in a locked cupboard that children cannot access. Child-resistant closures are helpful, but they aren't childproof.
Remember that children may be curious about colourful bottles, unfamiliar smells and products they see adults using. Never leave an open bottle unattended while applying a blend or preparing a treatment.
The same precautions apply to diluted blends, rollerballs and other aromatherapy products. Store them according to their product instructions and keep them out of reach.
And please remember pets, too. Essential oils can be harmful to animals, and their safety needs differ from ours.
6. Consider allergies, skin conditions and sensitivities
A child may have sensitive skin, eczema, allergies or a history of reacting to fragrances. These factors should be considered before introducing aromatherapy.
Essential oils and fragranced products can cause irritation or allergic contact reactions in some people. A product that another family uses without difficulty may not be suitable for your child.
For topical use, speak to a suitably qualified aromatherapist before proceeding. They can help assess the suitability of the ingredients and method of application.
A patch test, where appropriate, does not guarantee that a reaction won't occur later, and it isn't a substitute for choosing a suitable product in the first place. Follow professional advice and the product's instructions.
There is also no requirement for aromatherapy to involve skin contact. Depending on the child and circumstances, another approach may be more appropriate — or aromatherapy may not be suitable at all.
If a child develops a rash, swelling, breathing difficulties or other concerning symptoms after exposure, stop the exposure and seek appropriate medical advice. Severe breathing difficulties or other emergency symptoms require 999.
7. What about asthma and respiratory sensitivities?
This is particularly important when considering diffusers.
Some children enjoy certain aromas, while others find them overwhelming or irritating. Strong fragrances and airborne substances can trigger symptoms in some people with asthma or respiratory sensitivities.
Before diffusing essential oils around a child with asthma, seek individual advice from their healthcare professional. Consider their known triggers, their asthma management plan and the needs of everyone sharing the space.
If diffusion is considered appropriate, it should be cautious and carefully managed. Ventilation, concentration, duration and the location of the diffuser all matter.
Children should be able to move away from the aroma, and their preferences must be respected. Don't diffuse oils continuously in a small or poorly ventilated room, and don't assume that an aroma is suitable for everyone simply because one child enjoys it.
If coughing, wheezing, breathing difficulty or other symptoms develop, stop the exposure and follow the child's asthma action plan or seek medical help as appropriate.
8. What about epilepsy and other medical conditions?
If your child has epilepsy, takes regular medication or has another significant medical condition, don't assume that every essential oil is suitable.
Some essential oils may pose a seizure risk. The oil itself, its chemical composition and the method of use all matter.
Sage, rosemary and thyme essential oils warrant particular caution when epilepsy is involved. Different species and chemotypes can have different chemical compositions, so the name of the plant alone doesn't tell the whole story. I would not introduce these oils for a child with epilepsy without explicit guidance from their specialist healthcare team.
Epilepsy Society provides information about complementary therapies and essential oils, including oils that may be unsuitable for people with epilepsy. You can read its guidance here:
It's important not to interpret this as meaning that every essential oil carries the same risk, or that an oil associated with relaxation is automatically safe.
Lavender and spike lavender are not interchangeable, and the fact that lavender is associated with Epilepsy Society does not amount to a blanket endorsement of lavender essential oil for everyone with epilepsy.
Before introducing aromatherapy, speak to your child's epilepsy specialist or healthcare professional. Tell them which oil you are considering and how you intend to use it. Don't change or stop prescribed medication because of aromatherapy.
The same principle applies to other complex medical circumstances: assess the individual, don't rely on blanket statements.
9. Essential oils should never be swallowed
I'll be very clear about this one.
Essential oils should never be taken by mouth as a home aromatherapy treatment for children.
Don't add them to drinks, food, water bottles or homemade remedies, and don't follow online advice recommending oral use without appropriate medical oversight. Essential oils are concentrated and can cause poisoning if swallowed.
If a child accidentally gets essential oil in their mouth, don't assume the exposure is harmless — even if you think it was only a small amount. The risk depends on the particular oil, the quantity and the child's circumstances.
Don't induce vomiting or try to treat the exposure with a home remedy. Seek medical advice promptly and explain exactly what product was involved.
In the UK, contact NHS 111 if you're unsure whether an exposure is harmful. If you believe a child has swallowed a potentially harmful amount, seek urgent medical advice. Call 999 for severe symptoms such as breathing difficulties, reduced consciousness or a seizure.
Keep the bottle or packaging available so healthcare professionals can identify the product.
For official guidance, see NHS — Poisoning.
10. Respect your child's sensory preferences — and know when to ask for help
This is the part I particularly want parents of autistic and neurodivergent children to remember.
Children experience smell differently. Some enjoy exploring aromas; others find them overwhelming. A child may love a scent one day and reject it the next.
Never force a child to smell an oil, tolerate a diffuser or have an aromatherapy product applied to their skin.
Offer choice where appropriate, observe their responses and respect their communication. A child who turns away, pushes a product away, becomes distressed or tries to leave is giving you important information.
For pre-verbal and non-speaking children, communication may come through facial expressions, gestures, body language or changes in behaviour. These responses deserve the same respect as a spoken “no”.
If you're unsure whether aromatherapy is appropriate, seek advice from a qualified aromatherapist with relevant experience working with children. Where there are medical conditions, medication concerns or complex needs, involve the child's healthcare professional as well.
A good practitioner should be willing to discuss risks, explain their approach and recognise when aromatherapy isn't appropriate.
A final word on essential oil safety
Aromatherapy can sometimes be incorporated into a child's wellbeing routine, but it should never be treated as risk-free or as a replacement for appropriate healthcare.
After 29 years as an aromatherapist and 16 years working specifically as a specialist aromatherapist within special education, my approach remains the same:
Start with the child, not the oil.
Consider their age, health, sensory preferences and individual circumstances. Choose an appropriate method, use products correctly and store them securely. Above all, never assume that what works for one child will be right for another.
If you're considering aromatherapy for your child, take the time to get the advice you need before starting.
Safe aromatherapy begins with informed choices.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I use essential oils on my child's skin?
Only where the product and method are appropriate for the child's age and circumstances. Essential oils should not be applied neat. Consult a suitably qualified aromatherapist experienced in working with children before introducing topical use.
Can I diffuse essential oils around children?
It depends on the child, the oil, the environment and the method used. Consider ventilation, duration, respiratory sensitivities and everyone's ability to move away. Seek individual advice if a child has asthma or other relevant medical needs.
Are essential oils safe for children with epilepsy?
Not all essential oils are suitable for people with epilepsy. Some may pose seizure risks. Discuss any proposed aromatherapy with the child's epilepsy team or healthcare professional before use.
What should I do if my child swallows essential oil?
Seek medical advice promptly rather than waiting for symptoms. In the UK, contact NHS 111 if you're unsure about the risk. Seek urgent medical advice if a potentially harmful amount has been swallowed, and call 999 for severe symptoms or an emergency. Do not induce vomiting.
How should I store essential oils?
Keep them in their original labelled containers, tightly closed, in a cool, dark place and securely locked away from children and pets.
About Fiona
Fiona is a qualified aromatherapist with 29 years' experience and has worked in special education for 26 years, supporting children and young people with SEND and autism.
For the past 16 years, she has worked specifically as a specialist aromatherapist within special education, with a particular focus on sensory needs, wellbeing, regulation and individualised support.
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