Aromatherapy and Pregnancy

Aromatherapy is a natural process in which essential oils extracted from aromatic plant sources are used to treat and balance the body, mind and spirit. During pregnancy, aromatherapy can be an extremely beneficial and helpful option since it is simple to employ and being a natural process, it has no side effects. However, use of aromatherapy during pregnancy should be done with a few extra safety guidelines.

Use Less Concentrated Oils

Most of the oils that are used for aromatherapy are concentrated and need to be diluted before use. During pregnancy, aromatherapy oils concentration advised is approximately 2%, which means, 10 drops essential oil to 2 tablespoons of carrier oil. For an aromatherapy bath, you can use 6-10 drops of essential oil to the tub and mix well before getting in. By adding 3-6 drops essential oil in a bowl of warm water, you can make a soothing compress with the help of a soft towel. The same dilution can also be used in a bowl of steaming hot water for steam inhalation.

What to avoid during pregnancy?

Essential oils should be used in moderation and should be preferably avoided during the first trimester of pregnancy. The use of aromatherapy during the last two trimesters of pregnancy can be extremely soothing especially during labour.

The following is the list of oils that should be avoided during pregnancy:

- Basil
- Cinnamon
- Clary sage ( can be used during labour)
- Clove
- Cypress (can be used after 5 months)
- Fennel
- Jasmine ( can be used during labour)
- Juniper
- Lemongrass
- Myrrh
- Parsley
- Pennyroyal
- Peppermint
- Rosemary 
- Thyme

The list of essential oils to avoid during pregnancy is based on the knowledge of the general properties of each essential oil. During pregnancy the essential oils which are known to thin the blood or cause cramping or contractions are best avoided. Used under proper dilution, most of these oils should not cause any problems during a healthy pregnancy.

If you are pregnant and have been using any of the above listed essential oils without any discomfort or problem then you can continue to use them. However, it is advisable for you to consult your doctor or midwife for the same.

Aromatherapy Oils that can benefit during pregnancy?

- Bergamot
- Chamomile
- Cypress (can be used after 5 months)
- Eucalyptus
- Frankincense
- Geranium (can be used after 3 months)
- Grapefruit
- Lavender
- Lemon
- Mandarin
- Neroli
- Petitgrain
- Rosewood
- Tangerine
- Tea Tree
- Ylang Ylang

But you are advised to exercise caution if you have allergies or a family history of allergies. If you think you may be allergic to a specific oil, do a patch test first.

Aromatherapy can provide easy solution to the following problems of pregnancy:

Morning Sickness

Any one of the following essential oils can be used to reduce nausea and queasiness. These can be inhaled, either directly from the bottle or pour up to 4 drops of the oil on a tissue and breathe in. Repeat as needed. The oils that can be used are peppermint, spearmint, and lemon.

Heartburn

For relief from heartburn pour 5 drops of lemon essential oil on a tissue and inhale after your meal.

Oily Skin

The "glow" of pregnancy is often the overactive sebaceous glands. Using the following mixture can provide a solution to the problems. Mix oil extracts into a 60-ml bottle, and add organic vegetable oil to fill. Massage it on the effected area. For itchy skin, 2 drops of Roman Chamomile and 2 drops of Lavender; for inflamed skin 4 drops of Roman Chamomile; for dry skin 2 drops of Lavender, 2 drops of Geranium and 1 drop of Rose Otto.

Stretch marks

Stretch marks cannot be prevented but they can be reduced and the use of some oils can reduce the itching and discomfort associated with them. Pour the oil extracts into a 60-ml bottle and add organic vegetable oil to fill. Massage the area each morning and evening. Use 3 drops of Lavender, 2 drops of Geranium and 2 drops of Rosewood.

Edema

A common problem in pregnancy is swollen hands and feet, which is the result of build-up of fluids. This can be easily cured with a gentle massage of the following blend. Pour the oil extracts into a 30-ml bottle and add organic vegetable oil to fill. Gently massage the area. Be careful not to massage deeply, as some pressure points in the feet, ankles and legs can induce labor.

Cramps

Cramps and other muscle aches can be eased with this aromatic blend. Pour the oil extracts into a 30-ml bottle and add organic vegetable oil to fill. Massage the area. Again, be careful not to massage deeply, as some pressure points in the feet, ankles and legs can induce labor.