The chemistry of essential oils is such that it is important to understand the exact nature of an essential oil before using it in pregnancy; many people believe that essential oils should not be used in pregnancy and indeed this is the case for some essential oils. However, there are some essential oils which are gentle enough to use both in pregnancy and once the baby is born.
Understanding Essential Oils for Pregnancy
It is very important to study and learn as much as possible about an essential oil before considering its use in pregnancy; a qualified aromatherapist will be available to advise on the safe use of an essential oil for pregnancy and for a particular condition. Essential oils should be diluted in a carrier oil or lotion before using in pregnancy and therapeutic essential oils should be used (i.e. unadulterated and unfractionated essential oils).
Essential Oils Not to be Used in Pregnancy
Some essential oils are composed of very active chemical components which can be toxic and dangerous in pregnancy; it is usually the presence of ketones orsome phenols which make an essential oil unsuitable for use in pregnancy. The following essential oils are an example (although not exhaustive) of essential oils either not to be used in pregnancy at all or only by a very experienced aromatherapist:
- Angelica (Angelica archangelica)
- Basil (Ocimum basilicum)
- Hyssop (Hyssopus officinalis)
- Clove (Syzygium aromaticum)
- Cinnamon (Cinnamomum zeylanicum)
- Coriander (Coriandrum sativum)
- Fennel (Foeniculum vulgare)
- Juniper Berry (Juniperus communis)
- Nutmeg (Myristica fragans)
- Peppermint (Mentha x piperita)
- Rosemary (Rosmarinus officinalis)
- Thyme Red (Thymus vulgaris)
- Sage (Salvia officinalis)
- Parsley (Petroselinum crispum)
- Aniseed (Pimpinella anisum)
- Penny Royal (Mentha pulegium).
Essential Oils Which can be Used in Pregnancy
Some essential oils are extremely gentle to use, particularly those which have a high alcohol content; many alcohol based essential oils are safe to use throughout the pregnancy term. However, whatever the circumstances, it is always advisable to consult a qualified aromatherapist on the use of an essential oil, if inexperienced in using essential oils in aromatherapy. Examples (although not exhaustive) of essential oils which can be used in pregnancy are:
- Bergamot (Citrus bergamia)
- Chamomile Roman (Chamaemelum nobile)
- Eucalyptus (Eucalyptus smithii, Eucalyptus staigeriana)
- Frankincense (Boswelli carteri)
- Geranium (Pelargonium graveolens)
- Ginger (Zingiber officinale)
- Grapefruit (Citrus paradisi)
- Lavender (Lavandula angustifolia)
- Lemon (Citrus limon)
- Mandarin (Citrus reticulata)
- Rose Otto (Rosa damascena/centifolia)
- Sandalwood (Santalum album)
- Sweet Orange (Citrus aurantium sinensis)
- Tea Tree (Melaleuca alternifolia)
- Ylang Ylang (Cananga odorata).
Contra-Indicators for Using Essential Oils in Pregnancy
There are some cases when essential oils should never be used, or only with caution, in pregnancy, depending on individual circumstances; some general contra-indicators for using essential oils in pregnancy are:
- be careful about using any essential oils in the first three months of pregnancy, when miscarriage is most likely to occur. Although essential oils may not necessarily cause a miscarriage, misuse or use of a particular essential oil with an individual, may aggravate a situation. Some essential oils are abortive.
- cases of high blood pressure and epilepsy should be treated with the same caution with essential oil use as when not used in pregnancy
- some essential oils may cause skin sensitization or irritation and this may be heightened in pregnancy
- phototoxic essential oils should be used with the same caution as when not used in pregnancy.
Using Essential Oils in Pregnancy Safely
It is strongly advised that professional advice is taken when using essential oils in pregnancy to avoid any potential dangers; each individual may react differently to essential oils depending on medical conditions. However, with the correct advice and use, many essential oils can be used safely in pregnancy and help alleviate many pregnancy related problems.
References:
Lawless, Julia 1995 The Illustrated Encyclopedia of Essential Oils UK: Thorsons
Penny Price Academy of Aromatherapy, UK
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