Holistic Women Herbal & Aromatherapy Helper - Aromatherapy to avoid ... 1 of 2 http://holisticwomenherbal.com/AromatherapyToAvoid.htm Aromatherapy for Pregnancy Oils to Avoid During Pregnancy By Vanessa Nixon Klein Aromatherapy is a natural, healing modality employing essential oils extracted from aromatic plant sources to treat and balance the body, mind and spirit. During pregnancy, there are many instances when aromatherapy can be an extremely beneficial and helpful option, while also being very easy to employ. In order to use essential oils safely during pregnancy a few extra safety guidelines must be followed. Lower Dilutions Essential oils are extremely concentrated and need to be diluted before use. A common dilution for aromatherapy blends during pregnancy is 2% - which would equal approximately 10 drops essential oil to 2 tablespoons of carrier oil. For an aromatherapy bath add 6-10 drops essential oil to the tub and mix well before getting in. 3-6 drops essential oil in a bowl of warm water wrung out in a washcloth works well for a compress. Use the same dilution in a bowl of steaming hot water for a steam inhalation. Oils to Avoid During Pregnancy Use of essential oils should be extremely limited or avoided during the first trimester of pregnancy, but they have many wonderful uses in the last two trimesters and especially during labour. The following list contains oils that should be avoided during pregnancy: • • • • • • • • • Basil Cedarwood Cinnamon Clary sage (OK during labour) Clove Cypress (OK after 5 months) Fennel Hyssop Jasmine (OK during labour) 2/27/2012 12:21 PM Holistic Women Herbal & Aromatherapy Helper - Aromatherapy to avoid ... 2 of 2 • • • • • • • • • http://holisticwomenherbal.com/AromatherapyToAvoid.htm Juniper Lemongrass Myrrh Parsley Pennyroyal Peppermint Rosemary Sweet marjoram Thyme *Note: Since it would be highly unethical to test on pregnant women, the list of essential oils to avoid during pregnancy is based on knowledge of the general properties of each essential oil. For obvious reasons, during pregnancy it is recommended to avoid essential oils which are known to thin the blood or cause cramping or contractions. Used under proper dilution, most of these oils should not cause any problems during a healthy pregnancy, but it is always best to err on the side of caution. If you are currently pregnant and have been using any of the "to be avoided" essential oils but are not experiencing any bleeding or cramping, then there most likely is nothing wrong. However, we strongly encourage you to consult your doctor or midwife and discontinue use of the "to be avoided" essential oils. About the author: Vanessa Nixon Klein has been studying and using herbs, essential oils and homeopathic remedies for the past 12 years. She has completed beginning and advanced courses in medicinal herbalism and continues her studies in the many modalities of alternative health care. Vanessa is a wife and work at home mother to 3 young attachment parented children. She owns and operates a business handcrafting natural cosmetics. http://www.herbsofgrace.com/ The statements made on this website have not been evaluated or approved by the FDA . Our information is not intended to diagnose, cure or prevent any disease. Before starting any treatment, please discuss with your healthcare provider. © 2009-2015 HolisticWomenHerbal.com All Rights Reserved. 2/27/2012 12:21 PM