During pregnancy, a woman’s hormonal and emotional changes can fluctuate and change drastically. When you consider using essential oils, you need to be cautious of the types of essential oils that are safe to use and the suitable dosage to use for pregnant women. Inform your obstetrician/ gynaecologist if you are using essential oils during pregnancy.
Before deciding whether to use essential oils or not, you need to know that essential oils may cross the placenta. There is limited to no human research about essential oils constituents crossing the placenta. Hence, the safest path is to just assume that essential oils do cross the placenta. Which is why every mother should be conscious of what essential oils is safe, how to use them safely and the criteria in choosing pure therapeutic grade essential oils.
The do’s and don’ts for using essential oils during pregnancy:
- Avoid using essential oils during the first trimester.
- Do not congest essential oils. Steam inhalation can be too strong for pregnant women too.
- Do not use essential oils everyday. Only use for well being support such as nausea, backache and other discomforts during pregnancy.
- Use the right dilution safe for pregnant women. Avoid using essential oils directly on the skin without any dilution.
- Always choose organic, pure and unadulterated essential oils from a trusted source.
- Avoid essential oils that are solvent extracted or synthetic fragrances.
- Only use essential oils that are safe to use during pregnancy.
Guide to using essential oils safely during pregnancy:
- 1% dilution for skin application: Blend 2 drops of essential oil with 10ml of any vegetable oil. Skin application offers a smaller dose over a longer period of time.
- Diffusion: Diffuse the essential oils for 20 minutes before entering the room.
- Inhaler: Drop 1-2 drops on an inhaler. Do not use for long period of time.
Essential oils that are safe to use during second and third trimester:
- Bergamot
- Roman chamomile
- Ginger
- Grapefruit
- Fine lavender
- Frankincense
- Lemon
- Lime
- Mandarin
- Spearmint
- Sweet orange
- Tea tree
TAKE NOTE! The list of essential oils mentioned above is just a guideline of essential oils that are generally safe for pregnant women. However, the usage of essential oils should be avoided during first trimester of pregnancy. The type of essential oils recommended during pregnancy also depends on the needs of every person. Certain people could have contraindications towards essential oils! Thus, we cannot guide every pregnant woman to use the same essential oils as another. Do refer to your doctor if you have any concerns.
Furthermore, not every issue during pregnancy can be dealt with aromatherapy. Sometimes, phytotherapy is also recommended. Organic flora water and vegetable oils are safer options to be used during pregnancy.
May the beautiful organic scents from nature surround you with support, comfort and ease for an enjoyable pregnancy!
**Information from Aromahead Institute & Florame France
