During pregnancy, motherly instincts kick in and it’s natural to pay extra attention to what you should and shouldn’t do. So what about essential oils during pregnancy? This topic is not without controversy, but here are a few points that may help you determine what’s best for you.
Let’s first distinguish between using the oils for aromatherapy or topically. Aromatherapy includes inhalation through a diffuser whereas topical use would include applying the oils to the skin.
The primary issue at stake is certain constituents in the essential oils crossing the placenta and having a negative impact on the health of the baby. Despite the likelihood of the oils crossing this barrier, it is not necessarily the case that the oils will be toxic. Whether adding a few drops to a bath or diffuser or applying a dilution to the skin (generally a couple drops of essential oil diluted in carrier oil), there is a very low risk of causing harm to the baby.
According to the National Association for Holistic Aromatherapy, there are no known cases of miscarriage from normal application of the oils. Cases of miscarriage have been almost exclusively from large doses of essential oils used intentionally as abortifacients. Here is a list of oils considered generally safe during pregnancy when used properly.
These include bergamot, eucalyptus, frankincense, geranium, grapefruit, juniper berry, lavender, lemon, rose, sandalwood, orange, tea tree, and ylang ylang.
The best advice is to use small amounts in a diffuser and make sure the oils are diluted with carrier oil for use in skincare. However, if in doubt, consult with a qualified medical practitioner.
Common Ways to Use Essential Oils during Pregnancy
1) Sleep
Diffuse a couple drops of lavender, geranium, or ylang ylang to help you get much needed Zzs.
2) Combating Nausea and Morning Sickness
Diffuse a couple drops of peppermint oil or try blending a drop of peppermint with a drop of lavender.
3) Reducing the appearance of Stretch Marks
Apply a couple drops of frankincense or lavender in carrier oil and apply to the skin. Also, try Lunamy's Classic Oil as a ready to apply oil with frankincense and moringa oil, a carrier oil that has traditionally been used for reducing the appearance of stretch marks in many African countries.
4) Lessening the appearance of Varicose Veins
Place a couple drops of sandalwood oil in a carrier oil and massage into the affected area, or try Lunamy's Classic Oil that features Sandalwood oil and is ready to apply.
This information is for educational purposes about the traditional uses of essential oils only. These statements have not been evaluated by the Food and Drug Administration and this information is not intended to diagnose, treat, cure, or prevent any disease.