Essential oils are highly concentrated plant extracts. When diluted correctly and used thoughtfully, many people enjoy them safely at home — including families — but extra care is always needed during pregnancy and early childhood.

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This guide is designed to be reassuring, practical, and easy to follow, even if you’ve never used essential oils before.

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The golden rules (read this first)

• Less is more — lower dilutions are usually enough

• Always dilute essential oils before applying to skin

• Avoid oils on broken or irritated skin

• Keep oils away from eyes, mouth, and hands that go into mouths

• If unsure, pause and check rather than guessing

 

You don’t need to use essential oils often or strongly for them to be supportive.

Safe dilution at a glance (topical use)

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Safe dilution made simple

You may see dilution written as a percentage — don’t worry, you don’t need to be good at maths.

Below is the same guidance shown in simple drop amounts, based on 5 ml of carrier oil (about one teaspoon).

 

These are general guidance ranges, not strict rules. Some oils require lower limits.

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Babies & children (topical use)

👶 0–3 months

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• 0.1–0.2%

• ½ drop per 5 ml carrier oil
  (This usually means preparing a larger blend and using very small amounts)

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👶 3–24 months

• 0.25–0.5%

• 1 drop per 10 ml carrier oil
  (or ½ drop per 5 ml)

 

🧒 2–6 years

• 1–2%

• 1–2 drops per 5 ml carrier oil

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🧒 6–15 years

• 1.5–3%

• 2–3 drops per 5 ml carrier oil

 

Adults

15+ years: 

• 2.5–5%

• 3–5 drops per 5 ml carrier oil

 

If you’re ever unsure, choose the lowest dilution and use it less frequently.

 

Pregnancy & breastfeeding

If you are pregnant, trying to conceive, or breastfeeding:

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• use lower dilutions

• avoid frequent or long-term use

• introduce oils slowly, one at a time

• stop using any oil that doesn’t feel right

 

Some oils are traditionally avoided during pregnancy, and others may require extra caution. When in doubt, it’s sensible to seek guidance from a trained professional or trusted pregnancy-safety resources, such as bumps.

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A note on peppermint

Some breastfeeding mothers report that peppermint oil may reduce milk supply. If supply is a concern, consider avoiding peppermint or using it sparingly.

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Patch testing (a simple safety step)

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Before using a new oil:

1. Apply a small amount of the diluted oil to the inner forearm

2. Leave for 24 hours

3. Do not use if redness, itching, or irritation occurs

 

This is especially important for children and sensitive skin.

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How often should oils be used?

Strength isn’t the only thing that matters — frequency and duration matter too.

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Good practice includes:

• short periods of use

• taking breaks

• avoiding “all day, every day” routines, particularly for children

 

Essential oils work best when used intentionally, not constantly.

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When extra care is needed

It’s a good idea to seek personalised advice if:

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• you are pregnant or breastfeeding

• oils are being used for babies or young children

• there is asthma, epilepsy, or a skin condition

• regular medication is being taken

• oils are being used repeatedly or long-term

 

A gentle reminder

Essential oils are best used as supportive, aromatic companions, not as medical treatments. They are not a substitute for professional healthcare advice.

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Important

This information is provided for educational purposes only and is not intended to diagnose, treat, or cure any condition. If you have health concerns or are unsure about safe use, consult a qualified healthcare professional or trained aromatherapist.