essential oils not safe for pregnancy

2021/05/21

A 2014 study in pregnant women showed that, when used consistently in aromatherapy, lemon oil reduced the frequency of nausea and vomiting. Be sure to check in with your doctor with any questions or concerns. Yes, we know there are only three trimesters. Oils to be avoided include cinnamon, clove, rosemary and clary sage, all of which can cause contractions. A 2018 review of studies even boldly concluded that lavender reduces labor pain. 1997-2022 All rights reserved. Hopkins Medicine: Aromatherapy: Do Essential Oils Really Work?, Mayo Clinic: Essential oils and pregnancy., Moreland OBGYN: Essential oils and pregnancy.. I like this article so much. I have a question regarding using lemongrass, included in your above list of safe for pregnancy oils. This means that the risk of you absorbing too much of an essential oil is a little lower than it would be with a potentially harmful substance you take orally so even if youre addicted to your essential oil diffuser, youre probably still within the recommended dosage. pregnancy oils doterra essential during chart Don't ingest essential oils. I use tea tree on facial blemishes.

citrus basic essential oil oils pregnancy during dropwise Avoid inhaling the steam directly from your diffuser though as this can irritate the mucous membranes in your nose. This oil is good for aromatherapy uses and should be added to a diffuser. There are many varieties of oils to choose from. But as long as you take care to ensure the essential oils youre using dont have any negative effects and stay mindful of your dosage, once youre past your first trimester, you can re-introduce essential oils into your daily routine. mommypotamus 2005 - 2022 WebMD LLC. If you're newly pregnant, you may be experiencing what seems like endless nausea and vomiting. Exclusive tips + updates delivered to your inbox. These include lavender, chamomile, and ylang ylangall of which calm, relax, and aid sleep. In general, most medical experts agree that aromatherapy is a safer option for pregnant people as opposed to topical applications. Here are some of the essentials oils you should skip until your baby arrives, and remember to ask your doctor if you're unsure. Rather, theyre inhaled or diluted into a solution and used topically, whether its a spot treatment or bath soak. Required fields are marked *.

Landry also points out that essential oils can interact with conventional drugs.

The amount that actually enters the mothers skin is trivial and so the amount that reaches the placenta is miniscule if proper dilutions are being used. Theres no shortage of anti-anxiety aromatherapy options for labor and delivery. Rose oil is another great option for reducing anxiety, encouraging calm, and helping you get those coveted 40 winks at night. Using tea tree oil in pregnancy is mostly safe, but there are some special considerations to keep in mind. Carefully dilute the oils. Should I go to my Ob for check up? essential oils youre meant to avoid while pregnant. More research still needs to be done to confirm these positive results. There simply isnt enough research to be sure this is safe for you or for your baby, and ingesting essential oils will make it more likely that you exceed the recommended dosage, even of safe oils. WebMD does not provide medical advice, diagnosis or treatment. What Genetic Testing Is Available During Pregnancy? Essential oils may be a smart option for reducing some common pregnancy symptoms like nausea without the need for medication. Stick with quality essentials oils from a reputable brand unadulterated, advises the International Federation of Professional Aromatherapists (IFPA). When shopping for essential oils, the most important thing to look for is quality. Pregnant people should always speak with their physician or homeopathic expert before attempting to use them topically. You can add drops of the oil to a vaporiser, but don't leave it on for longer than 10 minutes or 15 minutes in each hour. Remember to choose scents safe for your little one and to always dilute before applying them to your skin. It can take several pounds of a plant to produce just one bottle of essential oils. You shouldn't use essential oils in early pregnancy because they could potentially cause uterine contractions or adversely affect your baby in their early developmental stages, explains Jill Edwards, N.D., an Oregon-based doctor of naturopathic medicine who specializes in prenatal care. US Reports First Monkeypox Case in a Pregnant Woman, How the Overturning of Roe V. Wade May Impact Maternal Health, The Best Pregnancy-Safe Sunscreen for All Skin Types, 7 Ways to Detox Your Home and Routine for a Healthier Pregnancy. Your baby will be more developed by this point and less likely to experience any negative consequences as a result of essential oil usage. $49.95, $36.95 By and large, the essential oils youre meant to avoid while pregnant should be avoided because not enough research has been done on whether or not theyre safe. These include fennel, clary sage, marjoram, tarragon, caraway, cinnamon, thuja, mugwort, birch, wintergreen, basil (estragole CT), camphor, hyssop, aniseed, sage, tansy, wormwood, parsley seed or leaf, and pennyroyal. Oils that can cause contractions are a definite no-noand that includes cinnamon, clove, rosemary, and clary sage. This simply means that you should use your essential oils in a diffuser rather than applying them to your skin. Here are some tips: The following essential oils are generally considered safe in pregnancy, according to the IFPA. Learn what research says about how some essential oils may benefit the immune system. Usually. Only use essential oils externally because ingesting them may cause miscarriage, lead to. Can Essential Oils Help Boost Your Immunity? Most people know that a cup of chamomile tea can be very calming. In addition, essential oils for pregnancy are best used under the guidance of a qualified expert, whether its a physician, midwife or someone your health provider recommends. Always dilute the essential oil in a base oil.

Whether youre an all-out essential oil maven or just occasionally turn on. Youre under so much pressure to take care of the baby and yourself, and the guidelines for doing so can seem complicated. Exactly how long does morning sickness last? Even if youve zeroed in on a set of essential oils you can trust, you should still proceed cautiously if youre using them when pregnant. Here, the lowdown on what oils can help during pregnancyand what to avoid. When using essential oils in the second or third trimester, youll want to use them much in the same way youd use them any other time. stay happy and healthy. Thank you for visiting our blog! Some essential oils could be used to help mitigate the emotional difficulties and pains of labor if implemented safely. It was in my hair serum. Pregnancy also asks a lot of your body and as a result, its easy and understandable to feel fatigued.

If reaching for your standard medicine isnt an option, eucalyptus oil for pregnancy ailments when used properly may provide some relief. Hormonal changes in pregnancy sometimes lead to a heightened sense of smell. Were breaking down the important details that you need to know to make an informed decision if you decide to incorporate essential oils into your pregnancy routine. But, what are your thoughts about diffusing it? If you still feel unsure as to whether or not your favorite essential oil is safe to use while pregnant, you should consult your doctor.

We'll break it down.

should be avoided because not enough research has been done on whether or not theyre safe. While we aim to supply as much research and inspiration as we can, so readers can make better, informed decisions, we are not medical practitioners; therefore we cannot give medical advice. , but you should especially avoid this while pregnant even in your second and third trimesters. Essential oils are generally a natural, healthy supplement, but as with anything you put in your body, its best to do your own research to make sure youre making the right decision for you.

[1] From Exploring Aromatherapy Safety Information, naha.org, [2] From Essential Oils, fitpregnancy.com. Essential oils that are safe for use in the second and third trimesters of pregnancy include: Its important to remember to always do your own research with products, especially when the safety of your baby is a factor.

While there arent any studies showing that normal use of essential oils is dangerous, exceeding the recommended dosages can be especially if youre using them topically. Related: 12 essential oils to help heal or prevent stretch marks. So if it took a little while for you to find out and youve been using essential oils, or if you just didnt know that they might not be as good for you during pregnancy, you dont need to panic. You can reap the benefits of most essential oils just by smelling them during labor. Youve probably heard the phrase essential oils many times, or at least read it. Theres evidence that some essential oils may provide therapeutic benefits that can reduce common pregnancy ailments as well as calm anxiety. Currently in my first trimester, is this okay to continue? But in your second or third trimesters, keep the following safety protocols in mind when youre using approved essential oils. So if you wisely gave essential oils a miss during your first trimester, you might want to ease back in to make sure you dont overwhelm yourself. What Every Parent Needs to Know, Herpes and Pregnancy: What You Need to Know, Everything You Need To Know About Emergency Contraception, What Parents Need To Know About Hormone Blockers, Nutrition During Pregnancy: 10 Do's and Don'ts, What You Need to Know About Stopping Birth Control to Get Pregnant, Everything You Need To Know About Rihanna's Baby, Tattoos, Body Piercing, and Pregnancy: 6 Things You Need to Know, Everything You Need to Know About Lead Poisoning in Kids. Its just better to discontinue use until youre sure the essential oils youre incorporating into your life are safe. In particular, some pregnant women have had luck with frankincense and peppermint oil to deal with nausea and cedarwood and lavender oil for help with sleep.

However, as with anything, if youre concerned about your intake, you should consult your doctor! Willow and Sage magazine offers recipe after recipe of natural bath and body products that are healthy for your skin and fun to make too! Not all essential oils are harvested the same way, and you might find that theres something in them thats not listed on the label. I used sage essential oil before I knew it was harmful. Pregnancy is an exciting period in your life. When youre navigating pregnancy, it can feel like all you hear is a constant stream of donts. As with almost everything and pregnancy, if you use essential oils, youll need to be a little more careful when incorporating them into your life. So if it took a little while for you to find out and youve been using essential oils, or if you just didnt know that they might not be as good for you during pregnancy, you dont need to panic. Is It Safe to Use Tea Tree Oil While Pregnant? However, you might want to abide by the less is more philosophy.

All rights reserved. In the earliest stages of your pregnancy, its probably best to err on the side of caution. Want more educational tips or to learn the benefits of specific ingredients? It tests a fetus for genetic and other conditions.

Our Willow and Sage Botanicals are 100% pure and all-natural. Regardless of whether youre pregnant or not, if you do decide to use oils topically, youll need whats known as a carrier oil to do so safely. It depends on whom you ask. If you are ever unsure of any potentially harmful products used, we recommend to check with a health care professional if you are unsure , Visit the Publisher's website: "In the second and third trimesters, some essential oils are safe to use, as your baby is more developed," Edwards adds.

document.getElementById( "ak_js_1" ).setAttribute( "value", ( new Date() ).getTime() ); Tip from a studying herbalist: please do not use eucalyptus during pregnancy! This is because essential oils are very concentrated and can irritate skin when applied directly without being diluted. Certain varieties are safe to use while pregnant while others should be avoided. I definitely wouldnt take it internally during pregnancy- and that should probably be on your list. Its recommended that you avoid aromatherapy in your first trimester, as you still absorb bits of the essential oils in this way, and absorbing too much could pose a danger for you and your baby. Please note: The Bump and the materials and information it contains are not intended to, and do not constitute, medical or other health advice or diagnosis and should not be used as such. Awesome Beauty Swaps for New and Expecting Moms. By clicking Accept All Cookies, you agree to the storing of cookies on your device to enhance site navigation, analyze site usage, and assist in our marketing efforts. Pregnancy can heighten sensitivity to smell which may make some essential oil scents overwhelming. [1], Even so, many experts recommend not using them in the first trimester. But German chamomile can be used topically with a carrier oil after you give birth to help repair the skins elasticity and reduce the appearance of stretch marks. There simply isnt enough research to be sure this is safe for you or for your baby, and ingesting essential oils will make it more likely that you exceed the recommended dosage, even of safe oils.

As the essential oil market continues to grow, so do concerns about whether these highly concentrated plant extracts are safe for common use. Sexually transmitted infections (STI) are common and can occur during pregnancy. flourish is more than just a blog. Is It Safe to Use Essential Oils While Pregnant? Sniff them directly from the bottle, or sniff a cotton ball or tissue treated with a drop or two. Thanks to their volatile compounds, essential oils are fragrant and therefore used in aromatherapy, which can be thought of as plant medicine, says Amy Galper, executive director and founder of the New York Institute of Aromatherapy in New York City. Pregnant women should also avoid aromatherapy products and treatments in the first trimester, since essential oils are the key ingredients used in aromatherapy. Hello! In this article: Best essential oils for pregnancy, The term essential oil is actually derived from quintessential oil, which, in turn, comes from Aristotles notion that while fire, air, earth and water make up natural materials, its the fifth element, aka quintessence, that gives a certain material its life force., Of course, now we know that essential oilswhich are sourced from plants, flowers and seedsare in fact made up of a combination of chemicals and can be isolated via distillation or a mechanical process. Just be mindful not to overdo it! A few good tips to keep in mind include: Some people may experience an allergic reaction or skin irritation after using essential oils. Add a total of 12 drops of essential oil to 2 tablespoons of distilled water in a spray-mist bottle, and mist pillows before bed, she says. Dont consume too much fish for fear of mercury (but do incorporate healthy fish into your diet). Well highlight best practices as well as outline which oils are safe and which ones fall on, you guessed it, the dont list. Or they can be used to create scents for your bath and body projects which are wonderful relaxers for those achy muscles and tired feet. Consult with your doctor and a qualified aromatherapist with questions or concerns. Aromatherapy understands that our sense of smell is deeply connected to the overall health and wellness of our whole being..

Healthline Media does not provide medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment.

You can get the benefits of essential oils through aromatherapy, whether your preference is using an essential oil diffuser or using a spray bottle to lightly mist some fabrics in your home with diluted essential oil. Youre discovering the importance of loving your skin, and everything in-between. We encourage you to consult with your doctor on this topic . Words: Jana HolsteinPhoto Credit: Alex Pasarelu. By clicking Subscribe, I agree to the WebMD, Smart Grocery Shopping When You Have Diabetes, Surprising Things You Didn't Know About Dogs and Cats, Sitting May Raise Risk of Heart Failure Nearly 50%, Broccoli Reigns Supreme as Americas Favorite Veggie, Vaccinations for Youngest Kids Gets Final CDC Approval, Dr. Whyte's Book: Take Control of Your Diabetes Risk, The Future of Food: What You Need to Know, Health News and Information, Delivered to Your Inbox. But chamomile is also an essential oil.

Is it safe to drink herbal teas in pregnancy?

To improve sleep: Lavender, ylang-ylang, mandarin, frankincense. Again, we dont recommend ingesting essential oils. Essential oils such as lavender, Roman chamomile, and ylang-ylang are thought to promote healthy sleep habits.

Also remember that this list isn't exhaustive. If lavender and rose oil arent your things, geranium oil is another floral option with a proven clinical track record of reducing anxiety during the first stage of labor.

Some essential oils that may carry a higher risk of causing an allergic or skin irritation include: If you get a red, itchy rash or hives after using essential oils, contact your doctor as these symptoms are often signs of an allergic reaction. Longer answer: it depends on how far along you are and the amount and usage of the essential oils. Some essential oils are high in ketones, and should be avoided in pregnancy! When we experience a scent, it triggers all sorts of responses in our body that affect our well-being, Galper says. Always do a patch test before trying a new essential oil. For thousands of years, people have used essential oils as a natural, holistic treatment for ailments. Since most people like the smell of roses, this might be a great option if youre not a fan of how lavender smells. By clicking the button, you agree to our policies and to get emails from us.

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When used through inhalation, the molecules move from the nose or mouth to the lungs, brain and other parts of the body, explains Nita Landry, MD, an ob-gyn who is a recurring cohost on the syndicated show The Doctors. Essential oils like Lemon, Lime, Geranium, and Mandarin all have restorative properties that encourage you to feel more alert and energized without relying on something potentially harmful, like our go-to: a little too much caffeine. Genetic testing may be a part of care during pregnancy.

Essential oils you ought to avoid while pregnant include: While this list will hopefully be useful to you, its by no means comprehensive. Mix one drop with at least a teaspoon (5ml) of a base oil before you smooth it on your skin. So if you wisely gave essential oils a miss during your first trimester, you might want to ease back in to make sure you dont overwhelm yourself. Essential oils are natural remedies with very few side effects, says Lakeisha W. Richardson, MD, an ob-gyn at Delta Regional Hospital in Greenville, Mississippi. But in order to do so, its important to be aware of the risks and to know which essential oils to steer clear of so that you and your little one (or ones!) You might also ask your labor partner to massage you with diluted lavender oil during labor. And didnt your yoga instructor recommend something about essential oils too? Q&A: Is It Safe to Be Around the Chickenpox While Pregnant? You can also apply essential oils diluted significantly with a carrier oil (like coconut oil) to the skin. These essential oils likely wont cause you harm if encountered incidentally, but too much exposure could lead to toxicity and put both you and your little one in harms way. Your email address will not be published.

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Finding a high-grade quality variety is recommended.

For the safest, most effective essential oil experience, read on. Even if you arent pregnant, essential oils arent meant to be taken orally unless under the direct supervision of an expert or physician. There is not enough evidence to prove that this is safe. Chorionic villus sampling (CVS) is a prenatal test that may be done in the first trimester. Similar to lavender, one 2014 study suggests rose oil can help ease anxiety during delivery. Essential oils that are good to use while pregnant: Here are some other essential oils thatshould not be used while pregnant: If a doctor or midwife recommends essential oils to help you during pregnancy, use them carefully. All rights reserved.

Galper makes the following recommendations for her patients, but again, check with your health provider before trying them on yourself. It's probably safe to use some oils, as long as you're healthy, you choose your oils carefully, and you use them sparingly.

You can also consult your healthcare provider before using a product youre unsure of. While aromatherapy can, in some cases, be helpful, the science is mixed, the quality of products varies greatly and certain oils are potentially harmful for pregnant women. You are taking antibiotics or antihistamines, as the oils may interfere with the way the medicines work. We explain which prenatal genetic tests may be available to you in each trimester. While research suggests there are health benefits, the FDA doesnt monitor or regulate the purity or quality of essential oils. When used as a topical application, massage oils or other skin-care products are absorbed through the skin. Grapeseed oil or sweet almond oil work well as base oils. We dont recommend ingesting essential oils in general, but you should especially avoid this while pregnant even in your second and third trimesters. Here's what you need to know before sniffing your favorite aromatherapy scent or slathering on an essential oil during each trimester of your pregnancy. sometimes lead to a heightened sense of smell. Why Is the Black Maternal Mortality Rate So HighAnd What Can We Do? The National Association for Holistic Aromatherapy (NAHA) says that essential oils may cross the placental barrier and have the potential to affect the fetus. But preliminary evidence from an older 2013 study suggests that when used solely for aromatherapy, peppermint oil can be a great option for reducing nausea in pregnant people. These can soothe the swelling and irritation, Galper says. Download The AppDaily pregnancy & newborn updates with our FREE app. If youre suffering from morning sickness, an essential oil like ginger can really help alleviate this uncomfortable side effect of pregnancy. By your second and third trimesters, you can probably start re-incorporating some essential oils into your routine. With good essential oils and expert guidance, you may find that aromatherapy can make you feel a lot better. Additional essential oils that have therapeutic benefits and are safe for pregnancy (after the first trimester) include: The list of oils to avoid is significantly larger than those that are safe for use during pregnancy. Eucalyptus radiata is lower in ketones than other eucalyptus varieties, but I would still not recommend. Eventually she starts to sing the praises of a particular line of essential oils, and after a couple of clicks, you realize she doesnt only use them, she actually sells them as well. We always recommend consulting your health professional on specific ingredients you may have concerns about.

Powerful Photo Series Raises Awareness on Mortality Rates for Black Moms and Babies, Postpartum Recovery Tips for Treating Your Vagina After Birth. Morning Sickness Remedies That Really Work, Essential Oils in the Second and Third Trimesters, Woman's Warning About Third-Degree Burns from Essential Oils Is a Must-Read for Everyone, Tips for Easing Aches and Pains During Pregnancy, Everything You Need to Know About Elon Musk's Family, Your Guide to Drinking Tea During Pregnancy, How Safe Are Essential Oils? stay happy and healthy. While essential oils can't induce labor, they can help with pain. To relieve nausea: Lavender, chamomile, peppermint, ginger. What are essential oils? Hi Megan, we recommend checking with your health physician . Essential oils could cause uterine contractions or adversely affect your baby in his early developmental stages, according to naturopath Jill Edwards, who specializes in prenatal care.

How Long Morning Sickness Lasts, Understanding Chorionic Villus Sampling (CVS) Testing, help reduce irritation and swelling associated with hemorrhoids. https://www.healthline.com/health/pregnancy/essential-oils-for-pregnancy#oils-to-try, https://www.healthline.com/nutrition/11-foods-to-avoid-during-pregnancy, https://www.mayoclinichealthsystem.org/hometown-health/speaking-of-health/essential-oils-and-pregnancy, https://www.medicalnewstoday.com/articles/321937#:~:text=Hormonal%20changes%20in%20pregnancy%20can,experience%20increased%20nausea%20and%20vomiting, Comments must be approved before appearing. These substances can also relieve pregnancy aches and pains, but are essential oils safe for pregnancy? Some essential oils can cause skin irritation or. Thanks for sharing. Hello was wondering if peppermint oil would be safe to ingest during the third trimester? So if youve hit the point in your pregnancy where its impossible to get comfortable, sensible uses of these essential oils can be an excellent sleep aid.