Essential oils are known to cross the blood-brain barrier, so it's accepted that they also cross the placenta, according to Janetta Bensouilah and Philippa Buck, authors of "Aromadermatology." Oils with known toxicity, therefore, should be avoided throughout pregnancy. The good news? Several essential oils are considered safe during pregnancy. Julia Lawless, author of "The Encyclopedia of Essential Oils" recommends that pregnant women use only half the stated amount when indulging in these oils 3. Avoid taking essential oils internally.
Jasmine
Jasmine is an essential oil you can safely use during pregnancy, according to Valerie Ann Worwood, author of "The Complete Book of Essential Oils and Aromatherapy." This fragrant, amber-colored oil has a medium consistency 2. Its primary uses are to ease anxiety, boost mood, soothe respiratory illnesses and relieve skin conditions, including acne and eczema. Jasmine essential oil is also known as an aphrodisiac.
- Jasmine is an essential oil you can safely use during pregnancy, according to Valerie Ann Worwood, author of "The Complete Book of Essential Oils and Aromatherapy."
Lavender
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Lavender, according to Worwood, is another safe essential oil for pregnant women. According to New York University Langone Medical Center, traditional use of lavender essential oil involves external application for treatment of joint pain, muscle aches and a variety of skin conditions, including acne, eczema, burns and insect stings 6. It's also used as a hair rinse and as a fragrance in potpourri.
Geranium
Geranium essential oil is extracted from the geranium plant. Its fragrance is floral, reminiscent of a rose. Geranium is known for its calming, balancing and uplifting effects, according to Susanne Fischer-Rizzi, author of "Complete Aromatherapy Handbook: Essential Oils for Radiant Health." Geranium oil is used topically as an antiseptic or astringent and for treating wounds and skin disorders such as shingles and eczema 257. As a lotion, it may be beneficial for inflamed or irritated skin. Worwood indicates that geranium is safe for pregnant women.
- Geranium essential oil is extracted from the geranium plant.
- Geranium is known for its calming, balancing and uplifting effects, according to Susanne Fischer-Rizzi, author of "Complete Aromatherapy Handbook: Essential Oils for Radiant Health."
Chamomile
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In aromatherapy, Roman chamomile is widely used as an anti-inflammatory and calming essential oil, according to Jennifer Peace Rhind, author of "Essential Oils: A Handbook for Aromatherapy Practice." Rhind notes that it's obtained from the daisy-like flowers of this creeping perennial, which was a staple of English herb gardens 257. Chamomile oil is known for its distinctive pale blue color and strong, fruity, apple-like fragrance. Worwood includes chamomile on her list of essential oils that are safe to use during pregnancy.
- In aromatherapy, Roman chamomile is widely used as an anti-inflammatory and calming essential oil, according to Jennifer Peace Rhind, author of "Essential Oils: A Handbook for Aromatherapy Practice."
- Worwood includes chamomile on her list of essential oils that are safe to use during pregnancy.
Related Articles
References
- Aromadermatology: Aromatherapy in the Treatment and Care of Common Skin Conditions; Janetta Bensouilah and Philippa Buck
- The Complete Book of Essential Oils and Aromatherapy; Valerie Ann Worwood
- The Encyclopedia of Essential Oils: The Complete Guide to the Use of Aromatic Oils in Aromatherapy, Herbalism, Health and Well-Being; Julia Lawless
- Juta's Clinical Guide for Midwives; Diana Du Plessis
- Essential Oils for Beginners; Althea Press
- New York University Langone Medical Center: Lavender
- Complete Aromatherapy Handbook: Essential Oils for Radiant Health; Susanne Fischer-Rizzi
- Essential Oils: A Handbook for Aromatherapy Practice; Jennifer Peace Rhind
- de Groot AC, Schmidt E. Essential oils, part IV. Contact allergy. Dermatitis. 2016;27(4):170-175. doi:10.1097/DER.0000000000000197
- Posadzki P, Alotaibi A, Ernst E. Adverse effects of aromatherapy: a systematic review of case reports and case series. International Journal of Risk and Safety in Medicine. 2012;24(3):147-161.
- University of Minnesota. How do I choose and use essential oils?
- University of Minnesota. Are essential oils safe?
- Nath S, Pandey C, Roy D. A near fatal case of high dose peppermint oil ingestion- Lessons learnt. Indian J Anaesth. 2012;56(6):582-. doi:10.4103/0019-5049.104585
- The Royal Children’s Hospital Melbourne. Essential oil poisoning. Updated June 2017.
- Bowles, Joy E. Case study – possible interaction of herbal sleep remedy containing Lavender essential oil and anxiolytic drugs. Updated 2018.
Writer Bio
Karen Curinga has been writing published articles since 2003 and is the author of multiple books. Her articles have appeared in "UTHeath," "Catalyst" and more. Curinga is a freelance writer and certified coach/consultant who has worked with hundreds of clients. She received a Bachelor of Science in psychology.