Teens and Pre-Teens

Pre-Teens, and Teenagers

The pre-teen and teenage years can feel like completely unchartered territory, not only for them, but for us as parents, grandparents, and caretakers as well. The hormones are making their emotions run rampant, peer pressure is stifling, homework and extracurricular stressors are weighing on them, and let’s be honest: they haven’t quite figured out how to positively respond to all of these things yet.

My kids are all grown but my grandkids are in the pre-teen and teenage years.  One day I know them and the next I don't.  The emotions have yo-yo'd.  One day the 16 year old is all hugs and the next it is "Don't touch me!"  I remember my own kids going through these stages and it was hard then too.  I wish that essential oils had been part of my life then.  If they had been, I believe the ups and downs would have been more evened out.  

So, the question is.......how can we help them?  Not only them but us as well!

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Hormones

So, let's talk about some essential oils that are great for hormones.  Because, let's face it, the teenager and pre-teen hormones are crazy up and looney down.  Some essential oils that are known as adaptogens have been shown to be helpful in balancing these out. These are:

• Lavender
• Lemon
• Rose
• Frankincense
• Lemongrass
• Sandalwood
• Clary sage
• Geranium

So how can you use them?  

Diffuse any of these alone or in combinations each night. You can blend some together for good as well.  Such as Sandalwood with Lavender for a restful night’s sleep.

Topically they benefit teens when used morning and night.  You can use a small essential oil bottle with a roller ball.  Blend oils together such as 10 drops each Clary Sage, Frankincense, and Lavender, then top with a carrier oil, and roll onto wrists and throat regularly.

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Focus

Have your teens suffered from lack of focus? Between school work, friends, sometimes jobs, and those pesky hormones again, it can be difficult for them to concentrate. Try using one or a combination of the following essential oils:

• Frankincense
• Ylang ylang
• Sandalwood
• Lime
• Peppermint
• Rosemary

Ways to use: mix with carrier oils and apply to the bottoms of the feet and wrists, or diffuse somewhere nearby, especially during times of study. A great combination is Frankincense, Ylang ylang, and Peppermint. Rosemary is particularly helpful improving memory.

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Teen moodiness 

How many times have your pre-teen or teens been so moody and grumpy that they are barely socialable with their family let alone their friends.  Some teen may need more and need some therapy.  But, you may find that one of the best routes to start with natural remedies.  

Some favorite mood busters include:

• Ylang ylang
• Bergamot
• Roman Chamomile
• Frankincense
• Lavender
• Clary sage
• Geranium
• Orange
• Lemon
• Valor (for fear)
• Cypress (for confidence)

Ways to use: diffuse any of these or any combination pretty much around the clock, or as often as your teen is near a diffuser. Diffusing these overnight is especially helpful. You can also apply these topically, morning and night.

A great combination is equal parts Ylang ylang, Bergamot, and Lavender. Wonderful for moods and will also aid in a restful night’s sleep - because not getting enough sleep won’t help the crankiness!  And we all know that teens require an huge amount of sleep and usually don't get it.