Babies are ever active. They are always up to something, crawling in the living room, holding the cabinets, standing up and trying to reach the colorful jar in the kitchen, or dancing in the hallway. If not anything else, cycling while lying on the bed. Thanks to all these activities they get tired too (and you thought being a baby was easy!) This is one of the reasons they need a massage, to relax their tired and sore muscles.

A good massage also contributes to baby’s growth. It improves the blood circulation, exfoliates and cleanses their skin, prevents chafing, strengthens their bones and maintains flexibility. Yes, we know that, but which oil to use for the baby massage? There are so many options and all are so confusing. Each oil has it own uses benefits and each baby has its own needs. One size doesn’t fit all. If you want to clear all your confusions, read on.

Carrier Oil

Carrier oils, also known as base oil are usually extracted from seeds, kernels, and nuts. A small amount of essential oil is mixed with a larger quantity of carrier oil, to dilute the essential oil before topical application. Mostly carrier oils are odorless or are very mildly fragrant. Carrier oil in itself can be used as a massage oil. It’s not necessary to add any essential oil to a carrier oil.

1. Coconut Oil

Coconut oil deeply moisturizes the skin. It is believed to be the best choice for summers due to its cooling effect on the body. Babies have sensitive skin, and some, unfortunately, suffer from eczema at a very young age. Coconut oil is the best remedy to treat eczema. It penetrates deep in the skin and provides the required moisture and nourishment. To know more, click here.

2. Almond Oil

Almond oil is rich in Vitamin A, B2, and B6 which is very healthy for the skin. It also moisturizes the skin and protects it from dryness and chaffing for long hours. It relaxes the baby’s tired limbs and sore muscles. Gently massaging your baby’s head with almond oil will improve their memory. To know more, click here.

Essential Oil

Essential oils are distilled from leaves, barks, flowers and roots. They evaporate and produce aroma, hence they are also called aromatic oils. Essential oils can be mixed with carrier oils and used for body massage. When these oils are rubbed on the body, our body’s warmth vaporizes these oils are the aromatic fumes of these essential oils start working. It is important to mix essential oils with carrier oils because if essential oils are very strong and concentrated, so if they are directly applied to the skin are they themselves cause rash and other irritation on the skin. Here are some essential oils that are beneficial to your baby.

3. Lavender

Lavender essential oil relaxes the body and mind. In case, your baby is restless and needs a bit of calming down or is tired of the daily activity, a massage with this essential oil will help to calm him/her down. Lavender is well known for relaxing the mind and body, resulting into a good night’s sleep. To know more, click here.

4. Geranium

Geranium oil helps to elevate mood and soothe the skin. It is astringent, antiseptic and a natural insect repellant. To know more, click here.

5. Tea Tree

Tea tree oil has balsamic properties that help to boost health. It promotes absorption of nutrients and being antiviral and antibacterial in nature, it protects from diseases and virus when topically applied. To know more, click here.

6. Eucalyptus

Eucalyptus oil is being used to treat respiratory system related problems for a long time. If your baby is suffering from cold and has congested nose, mix a couple drops of eucalyptus oil with a carrier oil and rub it on your baby’s chest and throat. When the eucalyptus oil comes in contact with the baby’s skin it gets evaporated due to the body heat. The baby then inhales these fumes which help to decongest its clogged nose. To know more, click here.

7. Mixed Oils

These oils are specially designed for babies. They are the perfect blend of what their bodies need and one need not worry about the perfect combination of carrier and essential oil. These oils are beneficial in multiple ways. They help to ease gas, constipation, they also encourage weight gain, strengthen bones and muscles and improves sleep. To know more, click here.