Essential oils can provide many benefits during pregnancy (such as relieving back pain and ankle swelling, and reducing stretch marks) and while breastfeeding, but there are special precautions to take and particular oils to avoid at these times.
Like many other aspects of Aromatherapy, there is still a lot of research to be done in terms of the potential risks of using essential oils while pregnant or breastfeeding. According to the National Association of Holistic Aromatherapy (NAHA), the biggest concern during pregnancy is that the oils will cross over into the placenta. Developing embryos and babies are much more sensitive to these oils than their mothers. These precautions are especially important during the first trimester, the time when the fetus is most susceptible.
In most cases, essential oils are safe to use at these times, particularly in very small doses—such as a few drops of Lavender in a bath at night. It is recommended to avoid large doses.
Here is a list of some recommended oils, and ones to avoid. Please note that the following lists are NOT complete, and it is recommended that you consult with your personal care provider prior to using essential oils during pregnancy or while breastfeeding.
USE: Bergamot, Eucalyptus, Frankincense, Geranium, Ginger, Lavender, Lemon, Lemongrass, Patchouli, Petitgrain, Sandalwood, Sweet Orange
AVOID: Basil, Camphor, Carrot Seed, Cassia, Clary Sage, Copaiba Balsam, Cornmint, Cumin, Hyssop, Mugwort, Oak Moss, Parsley Seed, Pennyroyal, Sage, Tarragon, Wintergreen
*For informational purposes only. These statements have not been evaluated by the Food and Drug Administration. This is not intended to diagnose, treat, cure or prevent any disease.
Search our online catalog for essential oil products
7 comments
What about tea tree oil while breast feeding?
Emily, Tea Tree can be used topically during this time. As with any essential oil, we recommend using higher dilutions while breastfeeding. Tea Tree oil can be astringent, so if you or your child experiences any negative reactions, please discontinue use immediately.
I’m very confused now. Your list of oils to use while pregnant have several that are have the safety warning (right here on your website) to avoid them while pregnant, including lavender, eucalyptus, frankincense and geranium.
My other question is this: are the unsafe oils unsafe to use in a diffuser as well as topical?
Thank you for bringing this to our attention. The website information is a bit confusing and needs to be updated. These oils do not need to be avoided during Pregnancy but should be used with caution or in lower dilution rates during your first trimester.
If you want to use aromatherapy oils during pregnancy, it is best to take the following precautions:
1. Only use one drop of essential oil at a time.
2. Try not to use one particular oil for a long period of time, such as every day for several weeks.
3. Dilute the essential oil by mixing the drop with at least a teaspoon (5ml) of a base oil before you add it to a bath or smooth it over your skin. Grapeseed or Sweet Almond Oil work well as base oils.
4. You can add drops of the oil to a diffuser, but don’t leave it on for longer than 10 minutes or 15 minutes in each hour. If you leave it on for too long, the smell can be overpowering and make you feel nauseous.
5. It’s best to start using essential oils once you are past the first trimester. If you use them in the first trimester, always consult an aromatherapist who’s trained in treating mums-to-be.
Thank you so much for your prompt reply! This information will help us a lot.
Do I understand #4 to mean that except for the smell, there’s no problem with using the oil in a diffuser? So if I try it and the smell doesn’t make me nauseous it’s okay to use it longer than the 10-15 minutes?
Yes, Exactly correct. Some women have a negative reaction to particular scents in their first and second trimester of pregnancy. By diffusing the oils 10-15 minutes you can minimize these feelings of nausea. However, if you have found that certain essential oils do not have a negative affect on you then you can most certianly diffuser longer than listed.
Perfect! Thank you!!