Learning Disabilities: How Essential Oils Might Be Your Game Changer

Influencing Challenging Behaviors of SEN With Essential Oils

Parents, carers, and teachers across the globe have been using essential oils to reduce and address the following challenging behaviors in people with SEN

1. Anger and frustration
2. Anxiety and stress
3. Attention deficit and lack of concentration
4. Hyperactivity and excess energy
5. Sensory overloads
6. Sleep issues and sleep deprivation
7. Meltdowns and tantrums

There is significant evidence through testimonials that essential oils can effectively reduce the behavioral and emotional challenges that parents and carers of those with SEN face daily.

If you are dealing with Autism, Asperger's, or ADHD, you will find these useful -

Using Essential Oils for Learning Disabilities Safely

Firstly, we recommend talking to your doctor or medical professional at length before using essential oils with those with SEN. Often, complex physical needs can also be managed, which need to be considered alongside any medication. Often your doctors do not know how essential oils might react to your conditions if they have not done the associated research for themselves.

Therefore, you may also need to bring in the wider expertise of a practicing clinical aromatherapist to work with your medical professional for a fully-rounded assessment and overview of what essential oils can safely be used.

Safety is paramount when using essential oils for those with SEN. Never apply essential oils undiluted to the skin. Before topical application, they must always be diluted in a carrier oil or a lotion. We also recommend that you always do a 24-hour patch test.

VINEVIDA has the safety sheets for every essential oil on the webpage for that particular essential oil. Always check these safety sheets for the recommended dilution rate and take them when you talk to your medical professional.

The Best Essential Oils for Learning Disabilities

Mandarin Essential Oil (Citrus reticulata)

Everyone with its fresh citrusy scent generally beloved Mandarin essential oil, and despite those zesty appearances, the oil itself can have quite relaxing effects. It is great for reducing anxiety levels, and I like it because it is a very mild and gentle essential oil. It quickly calms anxieties at all levels and is generally tolerated by most people.

On a metaphysical level, it quietens tempers and cools you down, like pouring water on a flame. It can be good for cooling the tempers of frustration and disappointment.

It reassures us and strengthens our feelings of safety and security, and this can help us feel safer in social environments than might cause us anxiety.

Safety: 

1. Do not use it in the first 16 weeks of pregnancy.

Lavender Essential Oil (Lavandula angustifolia)

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The lavender essential oil has been used worldwide for its calming and relaxing properties, and studies and research have repeatedly found how effective it is for this purpose. You need to be cautious about how much you use; less is more with Lavender. Use too much; you could end up stimulating yourself instead.

On a metaphysical level, Lavender clears levels of lingering and challenging emotions. It is like an emotional disinfectant for the soul.

Deeply soothing, calming, and relaxing on all levels, any plant on the purple ray helps you connect to your inner wisdom and emotions, which helps with better decision-making. Supporting independent decision-making with SEN is vital.

Safety: 

1. Do not use it in the first 16 weeks of pregnancy.

Rosemary Essential Oil (Rosmarinus officinalis)

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Rosemary's fragrance screams freshness and is one of our most refreshing essential oils. It helps to enliven the mind, engage our brain, fine-tune our focus, and laser points us in the right direction, which is what we need when we experience barriers to learning and cognitive dysfunction.

Moss (2012) found that the constituents present in Rosemary 1,8-cineole improved cognitive performance.

Rahbardar (2020) found that neuropharmacological investigations have validated the 'anti-anxiety and memory-boosting of rosemary.'

Therefore, this research means it is a fantastic choice where we need to improve our cognition and memory recall. It can be used where we need patterns of memory recall, like trying to get someone with SEN to learn, retain and recall an emergency phone number, for example.

On a metaphysical level: Rosemary stimulates and gives us courage; it fortifies us and drives us forward with hope and optimism in each hand.

It gives us the wherewithal to want to engage and get stuck into things. It is a dynamic essential oil that helps get us moving and motivates us...

Safety:

Rosemary is a potent essential oil, full of solid constituents and properties. Therefore, there are a few more safety considerations to be aware of than usual.

1. Rosemary contains constituents proven to be pro-convulsive for some people, be cautious with this essential oil if you have epilepsy.
2. The stimulant nature of Rosemary may also stimulate your blood pressure, so those with Hypertension - High Blood Pressure need to use it with caution, if at all.
3. It contains constituents that can be neurotoxic and can affect psychosis or delusory issues like schizophrenia; use with extreme caution if you experience or are diagnosed with any of these.
4. If you have any of these conditions and wish to use Rosemary, please consult your relevant medical professional for advice and supervision.
5. Please do not use it in the first 16 weeks of pregnancy.

Peppermint Essential Oil (Mentha piperita)

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Peppermint is an excellent essential oil for that beautiful, refreshing energy that washes over you like a welcome wave—putting a spring in your step and a bit of zest back in your day.

Use it to improve focus, clarity, and alertness. Let it help you retain information better and then recall it with clarity and accuracy. An essential oil that does give you a SUPER- boost.

On a metaphysical level: Peppermint can bring that coolness to feelings and emotions, pouring oil over troubled waters, as it were.

It takes the heat out of awkward situations and helps us face things head-on with our heads held high. Imagine when we blush when we are embarrassed; it cools that awkwardness and embarrassment as it helps us move on.

It's a great support where there is a lack of confidence and self-esteem.

Safety:

1. The chemical constituent, menthol, can slow respiration. Therefore, this is one to avoid for children under 6.
2. Please do not use it in the first 16 weeks of pregnancy.

Vetiver Essential Oil (Vetiveria zizanoides)

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I am the first person to advocate using Vetiver to help you sleep, so you may question my inclusion here to help stimulate you too!

Research by Cheaha (2016) found that the stimulating effects of Vetiver may be beneficial for learning and memory processes and could be used as a stimulant to improve alertness and task performance.

Remember, when relaxed, we often take in more information and squirrel it away in our memory banks more effectively than if we were experiencing stress. This can be key in helping people with SEN retain information that they otherwise may not.

We like it here at VINEVIDA as one of the best essential oils for improving your memory power.

On a metaphysical level: I find Vetiver deeply centering, which is why it has the dual ability to stimulate and calm simultaneously.

It holds you firm as you take your first steps into the unknown, like someone holding your hand and letting go at the right time to help you thrive. Divinely guided in perfect timing, as it were.

Safety:

1. Please do not use it in the first 16 weeks of pregnancy.

Lemon Essential Oil (Citrus limon L (Burm.) F. )

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The Citrus essential oils are known for their stimulating, refreshing, and enlivening effects. Zesty, zingy, and perfect for pepping up your step, Lemon is no exception.

The research study of Migiwa Komiya (2006) supports the hypothesis and theory that the chemical constituents of Lemon essential oil affects our mood positively and helps to alleviate the symptoms of anxiety and depression.

It can boost our energy and ability to concentrate and focus, which is a highly desirable outcome for those with SEN.

When we have a boost of energy and a willingness to focus, it can boost our motivation levels and push us further than we realize we are capable of. This can be groundbreaking for those with SEN. Using Lemon essential oil to support them in achieving can push them beyond what they dreamt they were capable of. In turn, this helps in building confidence, emotional intelligence, and resilience.

On a metaphysical level: Lemon with that gorgeous zesty fragrance brings joy and the confidence to 'have a go' and try new things.

It peps up our steps, brings courage, and stimulates our hearts to explore new experiences. This can help those with SEN who like repeating the same patterns and don't like things to change. It can help introduce new patterns and integrate change more readily and with less anxiety and stress.

Safety:

1. Please do not use it in the first 16 weeks of pregnancy.
2. A lemon essential oil can pose a risk of phototoxicity, so stick to a maximum dermal level for 2% dilution.
3. Please do not use it on children under 2 years old.

Essential Oils For Learning Disabilities - Our Favorite Blends

I am keeping this super simple with just three very easy blends. They are easy to combine and can be used in various ways. We have given plenty of ideas in the section below on how to use them to suit your family.

You will need the following for each essential oil blend:

1. 1x 5ml bottle with dropper cap
2. Funnel
3. Label

How to:

1. Place the funnel into the empty 5ml bottle and dispense the essential oil drops into the bottle. 
2. Add the dropper cap and cap the lid tightly. 
3. Label clearly and accurately with all of the ingredients for safety reasons.

Note: Remember to dilute this before using it topically on the skin. 

Concentration and Focus Essential Oil Blend

This is the perfect blend when focus and concentration are needed. It is great for when there is a need for more independence, and it is ideal for reading practice, tests, and exams.

• 33 drops of Rosemary Essential Oil (Rosmarinus officinalis)
• 33 drops of Vetiver Essential Oil (Vetiveria zizanoides)
• 33 drops of Peppermint Essential Oil (Mentha piperita)

Safety:

1. Please do not use it in the first 16 weeks of pregnancy.

Peppermint Specific:

1. The chemical constituent, menthol, can slow respiration. Therefore, this is one to avoid for children under 6.

Rosemary Specific:

1. Rosemary contains constituents that can be pro-convulsive for some people. Be cautious with this essential oil if you have epilepsy.
2. The stimulant nature of Rosemary may also stimulate your blood pressure, so those with Hypertension - High Blood Pressure need to use it with caution, if at all.
3. It contains constituents that can be neurotoxic and can affect psychosis or delusory issues like schizophrenia; use with extreme caution if you experience or are diagnosed with any of these.
4. If you have any of these conditions and wish to use Rosemary, please consult your relevant medical professional for advice and supervision.
5. Please do not use it in the first 16 weeks of pregnancy. 

Calm Me Essential Oil Blend

This is used when things are fractious, and frustration is evident. This is wonderful used in an essential oil diffuser at home to calm the atmosphere. In a rollerball, it can be carried and used on the go when tensions and anxieties start to flare.

To make it into a rollerball, mix 4 drops of this blend with 20 ml of Sweet Almond carrier oil, decant into the rollerball, place the rollerball and cap tightly, and label clearly with all ingredients.

• 33 drops of Lavender Essential Oil (Lavandula angustifolia)
• 33 drops of Mandarin Essential Oil (Citrus reticulata)
• 33 drops of Roman Chamomile Essential Oil (Anthemis nobilis L.)

Safety: 

1. Do not use it in the first 16 weeks of pregnancy.

Enliven Me Essential Oil Blend

Motivation and fear are an issue, and there needs to be a jolt into action, so this is the perfect tool for the job. It's great when you have a lot to achieve and need to focus on getting everything done!

• 33 drops of Lemon Essential Oil (Citrus limon L (Burm.) F. )
• 33 drops of Peppermint Essential Oil (Mentha piperita)
• 33 drops of Grapefruit Essential Oil (Citrus paradisi)

Safety: 

1. Do not use it in the first 16 weeks of pregnancy.

Peppermint Specific:

1. The chemical constituent, menthol, can slow respiration. Therefore, this is one to avoid for children under 6.

Grapefruit Specific -

1. Not suitable for people with platelet disorders or who are on blood thinning medication. 
2. It is suggested that you cease using grapefruit essential oil 48 hours before any planned surgery.

How to Use Our Blends and The Best Essential Oils for Learning Disabilities

Diffusers and Room Spray

Some people with SEN do not like to be touched; this is where essential oil diffusers and room sprays come into their own.

They are perfect for bringing calm to the house in the evening, and you could try a more stimulating and enlivening blend in the morning for those busy days when you need to start on the right footing.

Find plenty of ideas and extra information here on How to Use Essential Oils In a Diffuser.

Room sprays are great for quick fixes, to calm the mood, or to help those with SEN find focus and concentration when they need it most.

Care needs to be taken to not spray directly at your face or your eyes; if that happens, wash with warm water; if irritation persists, seek medical advice by taking the clearly labeled container with you.

Inhalation

You can buy empty essential oil inhalers or 'sniff sticks' and dispense your tailormade essential oil blend into them. It allows you to make a range of inhalers to suit a variety of SEN challenges and behaviors.

They are perfect for on-the-go and easy to pop in their pocket for days out, going shopping, and social days.

You can also create a similar effect using aroma pendants instead - find out more in this article - How to Make an Essential Oil Necklace.

Rollerballs

These are simple and easy to use, either as a direct inhalation method (always make sure it is diluted in a carrier oil, as in the recipe above, in case it gets on your skin). Sweet Almond is a good carrier oil choice here as it has a long shelf life and will last well in a rollerball.

Alternatively, you can use it to dispense the tailormade essential oil blend on your pulse point, at the wrists and temples, and I like a dab at the bottom of the neck so the fragrance of the essential oils can waft up and be inhaled.

Pop them in your pocket or backpack at school, work, or out and about. Great for older kids that are out socializing, it can help calm them in situations they suddenly find challenging or unsettled.

It is always wise to do a 24hr patch test on the inner elbow to check for any adverse or allergic reactions before applying it anywhere else on the body.

Lotions and Massage Oils

These are such beautiful ways to bond with your family member with SEN. Many parents and carers are finding it effective to focus on the feet first to get them used to being touched and massaged.

I recommend Jojoba carrier oil as it is the one carrier oil that most closely resembles our sebum. It lasts well in terms of shelf life and has a great skin feel. It does not leave an oily slick either, which helps it feel more acceptable to those with SEN.

Always ensure your essential oils are diluted and that you are working with the 1% dilution rate for children, 2% for adults in a weakened state, and 3% for adults. Remember that some oils, like Ylang-Ylang, have lower dilution rates, so always check the safety data sheets of your essential oils.

Again, It is always wise to do a 24hr patch test on the inner elbow to check for any adverse or allergic reactions before applying it anywhere else on the body.

The Final Word

Living with learning difficulties and SEN can be very challenging for someone experiencing it and their families and support systems. Every day can bring new experiences and hurdles for a family to face.

When living with learning disabilities and SEN, frustration, disappointments, heightened stress and anxiety can be parred for the course daily. It does not HAVE to be.

Essential oils can help soothe some of those feelings around anxiety and help induce feelings of calm. They can encourage focus, clarity, and concentration and relax or stimulate us.

Try some of these essential oil blends and see how useful they are.

Essential oils can make your day easier to cope with, less challenging, and make your life feel a bit brighter. It will certainly smell nicer!

More wonderful essential oil blends might be suitable in the following articles. 

Please let them see what essential oils for learning disabilities can bring to you, your family, and your home.