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Neurodiversity refers to the natural variation in human neurological structure and function. It is the recognition that differences in brain development and function are normal and valuable, and that individuals with neurodivergent conditions such as autism, ADHD, dyslexia, and Tourette's syndrome are part of this diversity.
It is important to use natural remedies for neurodivergent kids because they may be more sensitive to synthetic chemicals and medications, and may experience side effects or adverse reactions. Additionally, natural remedies may offer a gentler, more holistic approach to managing symptoms, and can be used in conjunction with traditional therapies to support overall health and well-being.
Essential oils, in particular, have been shown to have a range of benefits for neurodivergent individuals, including improved focus, reduced anxiety, and better sleep quality. However, it is important to note that essential oils should be used with caution and under the guidance of a qualified practitioner, as they can also be potent and potentially harmful if used incorrectly.
In this article, we will focus more on the benefits and use of essential oils in helping our neurodivergent children with their sleep challenges.
Essential oils have been shown to have a range of benefits for sleep problems in neurodivergent kids. Some essential oils have calming and relaxing properties that can help to promote restful sleep, while others can help to reduce anxiety and soothe the nervous system, making it easier to fall asleep and stay asleep.
Here are some essential oils and their benefits for sleep problems in neurodivergent kids:
Disclaimer: Please note that some of the links found in this blog are affiliate links and I will earn a commission if you purchase through those links. I use all of the products mentioned and recommend them because they are companies that I have found helpful and trustworthy.
Lavender Oil
Lavender oil is one of the most popular essential oils for sleep, and for good reason. It has been shown to have a calming effect on the nervous system, reducing anxiety and promoting relaxation. Studies have shown that lavender oil can improve the quality of sleep in both children and adults.
What are the benefits of lavender oil:
Here are some specific benefits of lavender oil for neurodivergent kids' sleep and overall well being:
Reduces anxiety: Lavender oil has been shown to reduce anxiety levels in children with neurodivergent conditions, which can help them to feel more relaxed and calm at bedtime.
Improves sleep quality: Lavender oil has a sedative effect that can help to promote restful sleep and improve sleep quality. This can be especially beneficial for children who have trouble falling asleep or staying asleep.
Reduces hyperactivity: Lavender oil has also been shown to reduce hyperactivity and improve focus in children with ADHD, which can help them to feel more calm and centered at bedtime.
How to use lavender oil:
There are several ways to use lavender oil to promote better sleep and overall wellbeing in neurodivergent kids. Here are some ideas:
Diffuse lavender oil: Add a few drops of lavender oil to a diffuser and let it run in your child's bedroom for 30 minutes before bedtime. Make use of those electric diffusers that automatically turn off with a timer.
Massage with lavender oil: Mix a few drops of lavender oil with a carrier oil such as coconut oil or jojoba oil and massage it into your child's skin before bedtime.
Add lavender oil to a bath: Add a few drops of lavender oil to your child's bathwater to help them relax and unwind before bedtime or mix Epsom salt, lavender essential oil, and lavender buds.
Include dried lavender sachets in the tumble dryer. As you tumble dry your bed sheets and linens, throw in some dried lavender sachets to impart a subtle lavender scent.
Use lavender oil in a pillow spray: Mix a few drops of lavender oil with water in a spray bottle and spray it on your child's pillow before bedtime. Use no more than 1 ml of lavender oil for 120ml pillow mist, if you were to make your own because too much can stain your pillowcases. Alternatively, you can also spray the pillow mist onto a tissue or a handkerchief then place it inside the pillowcase.
What are the safety precautions when using lavender oil:
While lavender oil is generally considered safe, it is important to use it with caution and under the guidance of a qualified practitioner. Here are some safety precautions to keep in mind:
Dilute lavender oil before using it on your child's skin: Never apply undiluted essential oils directly to the skin. Always mix them with a carrier oil before use.
Test for allergies: Always do a patch test on your child's skin before using lavender oil for the first time. This will help you to determine if they are allergic to it.
Use in moderation: Lavender oil is potent, so use it in moderation. A few drops is usually all that is needed.
Avoid using lavender oil with certain medications: Lavender oil may interact with certain medications, so it is important to speak with a healthcare provider before using it if your child is taking any medications. One good example of these medications are the sedative medications. Lavender has a potential interaction with sedative medications (CNS depressants). It can result in drowsiness and slowed breathing, which are also possible side effects of sedatives. Combining lavender with sedative drugs may lead to excessive sleepiness and breathing difficulties.
I have found Revive to be the best brand due to its pure therapeutic grade. My recommendation is below:
Cedarwood oil
Cedarwood oil has a grounding and calming effect that can help to promote relaxation and sleep. It has been shown to have sedative properties and can help to reduce nervous tension and anxiety.
What are the benefits of cedarwood oil:
Here are some specific benefits of cedarwood oil for neurodivergent kids:
Promotes relaxation: Cedarwood oil has a calming effect on the nervous system, which can help to promote relaxation and reduce anxiety.
Improves sleep quality: Cedarwood oil has sedative properties that can help to promote restful sleep and improve sleep quality.
Reduces hyperactivity: Cedarwood oil has been shown to have a calming effect on children with ADHD, which can help to reduce hyperactivity and improve focus.
How to use cedarwood oil:
There are several ways to use cedarwood oil to promote better sleep and overall wellbeing in neurodivergent kids. Here are some ideas:
Diffuse cedarwood oil: Add a few drops of cedarwood oil to a diffuser and let it run in your child's bedroom for 30 minutes before bedtime.
Massage with cedarwood oil: Mix a few drops of cedarwood oil with a carrier oil such as coconut oil or jojoba oil and massage it into your child's skin before bedtime.
Add cedarwood oil to a bath: Add a few drops of cedarwood oil to your child's bathwater to help them relax and unwind before bedtime.
Use cedarwood oil in a pillow spray: Mix a few drops of cedarwood oil with water in a spray bottle and spray it on your child's pillow before bedtime.
What are the safety precautions when using cedarwood oil:
While cedarwood oil is generally considered safe, it is important to use it with caution and under the guidance of a qualified practitioner. Here are some safety precautions to keep in mind:
Dilute cedarwood oil before using it on your child's skin: Never apply undiluted essential oils directly to the skin. Always mix them with a carrier oil before use.
Test for allergies: Always do a patch test on your child's skin before using cedarwood oil for the first time. This will help you to determine if they are allergic to it.
Use in moderation: Cedarwood oil is potent, so use it in moderation. A few drops is usually all that is needed.
Avoid using cedarwood oil with certain medications: Cedarwood oil may interact with certain medications, so it is important to speak with a healthcare provider before using it if your child is taking any medications.
This is the Cedarwood Oil I recommend:
Vetiver oil
Vetiver oil is a deeply relaxing oil that can help to calm the mind and promote restful sleep. It has been shown to have a soothing effect on the nervous system, and can help to reduce hyperactivity and impulsivity, which can be beneficial for children with ADHD.
What are the benefits of vetiver oil:
Here are some specific benefits of vetiver oil for neurodivergent kids:
Promotes relaxation: Vetiver oil has a calming effect on the nervous system, which can help to promote relaxation and reduce anxiety.
Improves sleep quality: Vetiver oil has sedative properties that can help to promote restful sleep and improve sleep quality.
Reduces hyperactivity: Vetiver essential oil is known for its calming properties and is often used to promote relaxation and reduce stress and anxiety. Its sedative effects can help in reducing hyperactivity, as it slows down the overactive mind and nervous system, promoting a more tranquil state of mind. In aromatherapy, vetiver oil is commonly used to soothe and calm the nerves, and it may also help with improving focus and concentration, which can be helpful for those with hyperactivity issues. Some studies have suggested that the use of vetiver essential oil may be useful in managing symptoms of ADHD (attention deficit hyperactivity disorder) in children, although more research is needed in this area to confirm its effectiveness. It is always recommended to consult with a healthcare professional before using any essential oil for medicinal purposes.
How to use vetiver oil:
There are several ways to use vetiver oil to promote better sleep and overall wellbeing in neurodivergent kids. Here are some ideas:
Diffuse vetiver oil: Add a few drops of vetiver oil to a diffuser and let it run in your child's bedroom for 30 minutes before bedtime.
Massage with vetiver oil: Mix a few drops of vetiver oil with a carrier oil such as coconut oil or jojoba oil and massage it into your child's skin before bedtime.
Add vetiver oil to a bath: Add a few drops of vetiver oil to your child's bathwater to help them relax and unwind before bedtime.
Use vetiver oil in a pillow spray: Mix a few drops of vetiver oil with water in a spray bottle and spray it on your child's pillow before bedtime.
What are the safety precautions when using vetiver oil:
While vetiver oil is generally considered safe, it is important to use it with caution and under the guidance of a qualified practitioner. Here are some safety precautions to keep in mind:
Dilute vetiver oil before using it on your child's skin: Never apply undiluted essential oils directly to the skin. Always mix them with a carrier oil before use.
Test for allergies: Always do a patch test on your child's skin before using vetiver oil for the first time. This will help you to determine if they are allergic to it.
Use in moderation: Vetiver oil is potent, so use it in moderation. A few drops is usually all that is needed.
Avoid using vetiver oil with certain medications: Vetiver oil may interact with certain medications, so it is important to speak with a healthcare provider before using it if your child is taking any medications.
This is the recommended Vetiver oil:
Frankincense oil
Frankincense oil has a calming and grounding effect that can help to reduce anxiety and promote relaxation. It has also been shown to have anti-inflammatory properties, which can be beneficial for children with conditions such as autism and ADHD, which are often associated with inflammation.
What are the benefits of frankincense oil:
Here are some specific benefits of frankincense oil for neurodivergent kids:
Reduces stress and anxiety: Frankincense oil can help to calm the mind and reduce feelings of stress and anxiety.
Promotes relaxation: Frankincense oil has a calming effect on the nervous system, which can help to promote relaxation and improve sleep quality.
Supports immune function: Frankincense oil may help to support the immune system, which can be important for neurodivergent kids who may be more susceptible to infections and illnesses.
How to use frankincense oil:
There are several ways to use frankincense oil to promote better sleep and overall wellbeing in neurodivergent kids. Here are some ideas:
Diffuse frankincense oil: Add a few drops of frankincense oil to a diffuser and let it run in your child's bedroom for 30 minutes before bedtime.
Massage with frankincense oil: Mix a few drops of frankincense oil with a carrier oil such as coconut oil or jojoba oil and massage it into your child's skin before bedtime.
Use frankincense oil in a bath: Add a few drops of frankincense oil to your child's bathwater to help them relax and unwind before bedtime.
Use frankincense oil in a room spray: Mix a few drops of frankincense oil with water in a spray bottle and spray it in your child's bedroom before bedtime.
What are the safety precautions when using frankincense oil:
While frankincense oil is generally considered safe, it is important to use it with caution and under the guidance of a qualified practitioner. Here are some safety precautions to keep in mind:
Dilute frankincense oil before using it on your child's skin: Never apply undiluted essential oils directly to the skin. Always mix them with a carrier oil before use.
Test for allergies: Always do a patch test on your child's skin before using frankincense oil for the first time. This will help you to determine if they are allergic to it.
Use in moderation: Frankincense oil is potent, so use it in moderation. A few drops is usually all that is needed.
Avoid using frankincense oil with certain medications: Frankincense oil may interact with certain medications, so it is important to speak with a healthcare provider before using it if your child is taking any medications.
This is the recommended frankincense oil:
Roman chamomile oil
Roman chamomile oil has a calming and sedative effect that can help to promote restful sleep. It has also been shown to have anti-anxiety properties, which can be beneficial for children who struggle with anxiety and stress.
What are the benefits of Roman chamomile oil:
Roman chamomile oil has been used for centuries for its calming and soothing properties. It is known to promote relaxation, reduce anxiety and stress, and improve sleep quality. For neurodivergent kids, who may have trouble sleeping or experience heightened levels of anxiety and stress, Roman chamomile oil can be a natural and safe way to improve their overall wellbeing.
Studies have shown that inhaling Roman chamomile oil can reduce anxiety and improve sleep quality. A study published in the Journal of Clinical Psychopharmacology found that inhaling chamomile oil vapors for two weeks reduced anxiety and improved sleep quality in adults with generalized anxiety disorder. Another study published in the Journal of Ethnopharmacology found that inhaling Roman chamomile oil improved sleep quality in rats.
How to use Roman chamomile oil:
There are several ways to use Roman chamomile oil:
Aromatherapy: Add a few drops of Roman chamomile oil to a diffuser or vaporizer and inhale the vapors.
Massage: Mix Roman chamomile oil with a carrier oil (such as coconut oil or almond oil) and massage it into the skin.
Bath: Add a few drops of Roman chamomile oil to your bathwater and soak in it for 15-20 minutes.
To prepare a relaxing bath with Roman chamomile oil, follow these steps:
Fill your bathtub with warm water. Make sure the temperature is comfortable for you.
Add a few drops of Roman chamomile essential oil to the bathwater. The number of drops may vary depending on the desired strength of the aroma and the size of the bathtub. Typically, 5-10 drops are recommended.
Swirl the water around to distribute the oil evenly.
Get into the bathtub and soak in the water for 15-20 minutes.
Take slow, deep breaths and focus on the soothing scent of the chamomile oil.
After soaking, rinse off with fresh water and pat yourself dry with a towel.
Inhalation: Add a few drops of Roman chamomile oil to a bowl of hot water, cover your head with a towel, and inhale the steam.
What are the safety precautions when using Roman chamomile oil:
While Roman chamomile oil is generally considered safe, it is important to take precautions when using it:
Always dilute Roman chamomile oil with a carrier oil before applying it to the skin.
Do not ingest Roman chamomile oil.
Avoid using Roman chamomile oil if you are allergic to plants in the daisy family.
Do a patch test before using Roman chamomile oil topically to check for any skin irritation or allergic reaction.
Consult with a healthcare professional before using Roman chamomile oil if you are pregnant, breastfeeding, or taking any medications.
Here is the Roman chamomile oil I recommend:
In summary, essential oils can be a natural and safe way to support the wellbeing of neurodivergent kids. They can help reduce anxiety and stress, improve sleep quality, and promote relaxation. Some of the essential oils that have been shown to be particularly beneficial for neurodivergent kids include lavender, vetiver, frankincense, and Roman chamomile.
It is important to note that while essential oils are generally considered safe, they should be used under the guidance of a qualified practitioner, such as a licensed aromatherapist or healthcare professional.
Essential oils are highly concentrated substances and can have side effects if not used properly. It is also important to use high-quality, pure essential oils and to follow the recommended dilution ratios and safety precautions.
If you are interested in learning more about essential oils for neurodivergent kids, here are some additional resources:
