Aromatherapy is a natural healing science
employing essential oils extracted from aromatic plant sources to treat and
balance the body, mind and spirit. During pregnancy, aromatherapy can prove to
be extremely beneficial and helpful alternative, while also being very easy to
employ and use. In order to use essential oils safely during pregnancy a few
extra safety guidelines will need be followed. Though, there are reports of
side effects, the user must be cautious enough to report any adverse effects to
the physician immediately.
Essential oils are extremely concentrated and
volatile. They must be diluted before use. A common dilution for aromatherapy
blends during pregnancy is 2 %, which would equal approximately 10 drops
essential oil to 1 ounce or 2T carrier oil (this is the most preferred oil).
For an aromatherapy pregnancy bath, add 6-10
drops of essential oil to the tub and mix well before getting in to the tub.
3-6 drops essential oil in a bowl of warm water wrung out in a washcloth works
well for a compress. Use the same dilution in a bowl of steaming hot water for
a steam inhalation. An aromatic bath is supposed to provide relaxation to the
taut pelvic muscles and aid in avoiding stretch marks.
How ever, there are many essential oils that need
to be avoided during pregnancy. The following list contains oils that should be
avoided during pregnancy and oils that are recommended for use during
pregnancy.
Oils To Avoid During Pregnancy
Use of essential oils should be extremely limited
or avoided during the first trimester of pregnancy, but has many wonderful uses
in the last two trimesters and especially during labor.
Oils to avoid during pregnancy include:
Basil, Cedar Wood, Cinnamon, Clary sage (during
labor), Clove, Cypress (after 5 months), Fennel, Hyssop, Jasmine (during
labor), Juniper, Lemongrass, Myrrh, Parsley and Pennyroyal
Oils Recommended During Pregnancy
The following oils will be comfortable for using
during pregnancy. As always, use caution if you have allergies or a family
history of allergies. If you feel you may be allergic to oil, do a patch test
first. Good oils for pregnancy include:
Bergamot, Chamomile, Cypress (after 5 mos.),
Eucalyptus, Frankincense, Geranium (avoid in early pregnancy), Grapefruit,
Lavender. Lemon, Mandarin, Neroli, Patchouli, Petitgrain, Rosewood, Sandalwood
and Tangerine
If you are currently pregnant and
have been using any of the essential oils that need to be avoided, but are not
experiencing any bleeding or cramping, then there most likely is nothing wrong.
However, it is strongly encouraged you to consult your doctor or midwife and
discontinue use of the "to be avoided" essential oils.
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