Pregnancy Related Pregnancy Essential Oils to Avoid during Pregnancy

Essential Oils to Avoid during Pregnancy

Once you conceive, suggestions and warnings pour in from every direction. While some may not be practicable, most of these cautions merit them, as even a seemingly normal thing like drinking a cup of herbal tea may be potentially harmful during this time. The use of essential oils is one such matter where you need to consider their benefits and risks in detail. Some essential oils can work miracles for various common pregnancy ailments, while others may prove potentially life-threatening.

Risks of Using Essential Oils while Pregnant

The components and properties of a herb are present in a highly concentrated state in its essential oil. For example, producing 1 pound of pure lavender oil requires over 250 pounds of the herb. So, one drop of lavender oil will have the same properties and effects as 20-25 cups of lavender tea. Due to this reason, experts often recommend using some carrier oil, such as coconut or almond oil, along with essential oils in aromatherapy, especially during the early stages of your baby’s development.

Avoiding these oils altogether during the first trimester is commonly advised, as over 80% of all miscarriages occur within the first 12-13 weeks.

Following is a list of the essential oils never considered safe for pregnant women, along with their possible negative effects:

Common Essential Oils Not Safe for Pregnancy

NutmegIt may have mild hallucinogenic effects and interact with pain medications during labor
BasilIt may contribute to abnormal cell development and also lead to premature contractions
Common sageMay cause bleeding in the uterus
Juniper berry, arnica, cinnamon, clary sage, jasmine, rosemary, clove, thymeMay stimulate blood flow to the uterus, leading to untimely labor and contractions
CamphorStudies have shown serious side effects of camphor poisoning, including fetal death; topical application can be harmful as it passes the placenta
Sweet birchMay interfere with the normal development of your baby
HyssopIt contains Pinocamphone, a chemical with convulsant properties that may lead to a miscarriage
FennelBelieved to cross the placenta, making it potentially harmful to your child; additionally, fennel is a phytoestrogen that may interfere with the hormonal functions of your body
WintergreenIt may lead to skin irritation; also possibly harmful to your unborn baby
Rose, SageMay cause bleeding in the uterus
PennyroyalMay damage your kidneys and liver while also causing early contractions and miscarriage
WormwoodIt should be avoided both for aromatherapy and oral use as it is believed to contain thujone, a compound possibly harmful to the fetus

Additionally, it is often recommended to avoid lemongrass, aniseed, laurel, lemon, mustard, myrrh, oregano, and pine due to the limited data available about their safety in pregnant women.

References:

  1. https://www.babycentre.co.uk/x536449/is-it-safe-to-use-essential-oils-while-im-pregnant
  2. https://www.parents.com/pregnancy/my-body/pregnancy-health/essential-oils-during-pregnancy-whats-safe-and-what-to-avoid/
  3. https://www.youngliving.com/blog/12-essential-oil-tips-for-a-relaxed-pregnancy/
  4. https://www.bellybelly.com.au/pregnancy/essential-oils-in-pregnancy-which-essential-oils-are-safe-to-use/

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