The correct dilution of essential oils is really important, especially for babies and children as well as people with sensitive skin / bodies.
Robert Tisserant is one one of the most well known aromatherapists in the world. You can find his dilution chart HERE.
Dr. Mariza Snyder in her book “Smart mom’s guide to essential oils” has the following recommendations:
- 3-6 months / 1 % dilution / 2 drops per 10 ml carrier oil
- 6 months to 1 year / 1% – 2% / 2-4 drops per 10 ml carrier oil
- 1-5 years / 2 % / 4 drops per 10 ml carrier oil
- 5-11 years / 5 % / 10 drops per 10 ml carrier oil
- 11-17 years / 10% / 20 drops per 10 ml carrier oil
- 17 plus years / 10-25% / 20-50 drops per 10 ml carrier oil
Valerie Ann Worwood in her book “Aromatheraphy for your child” recommends the following:
Drops of essential oil diluted in 30 ml of carrier oil
- Newborn – 1-2 drops
- 2-6 months – 1-3 drops
- 6-12 months – 1-4 drops
- 1-4 years – 5-8 drops
- 5-7 years – 5-10 drops
- 8-12 years – 5-12 drops
There are lots of different recommendations for dilutions available. Make sure you dilute really well for very young children and you can always make a small skin test on the inside of the wrist first.