According to Jean Valnet, author of "The Practice of Aromatherapy," essential oils are very effective medicines that work with the body's natural systems to create and maintain wellness. Essential oils, the concentrated essences of plants, affect the olfactory nerves, which are connected to centers of emotion in the brain. During pregnancy, the heightened sensitivity of smell could make essential oils especially effective.
Essential Oils to Use
Essential oils stimulate your natural relaxation response and are especially effective to combat stress and anxiety and create a sense of heightened well-being. According to the "Aromatherapy Guide to Essential Oils," oils that are safe to use during pregnancy include: lavender and chamomile to soothe and balance the nervous system; jasmine as an antidepressant and sedative; patchouli for warming and calming; petitgrain to relieve mental fatigue; and neroli as a sedative, antidepressant and aphrodisiac.
Benefits of Relaxation for Pregnancy
According to Linette Landa, Hypnobirthing childbirth instructor, the gestation period and birth experience are very influencial on the developement of the child's personality. The more you feel a sense of well-being and happiness during your pregnancy and birth, the more cheerful and easygoing your baby will be. Using essential oils during these critical times can help ease tension, anxiety and fears and create a sense of ease and relaxation that will transfer to your baby.
Oils to Avoid
Many essential oils are contraindicated during pregnancy. So avoid using any oil unless you are sure it is safe. Read labels carefully, since most manufacturers provide this information. Do not use any emmengouges, which may cause miscarriage. True lavender is beneficial, but avoid spike lavender. Be sure to avoid these common essentail oils during pregnancy: myrrh, pine, wintergreen, rose geranium, cypress, eucalyptus, rosemary, sage, oregano, peppermint and most citrus oils.
Application
There are a variety of ways to administer essential oils. Put a few drops in an oil diffuser and let the scent infuse your home. Waft the open bottle under your nose. Add 10 to 15 drops to a warm bubble bath. Mix fifty drops with 4 oz. of a carrier oil, such as almond oil, and massage into your skin. Always be sure the essential oils are diluted before applying to the skin warns "Aromatherapy Guide to Essential Oils."
For Baby
Continue to enjoy the benefits of essential oils after your baby is born. Lavender and chamomile are relaxants and a good choice for baby's bath. Rose is especially gentle and good for stimulating feelings of love and bonding. Mabey recommends it to combat postpartum baby blues. The "Aromatherapy Guide" recommends rose otto for babies. Galactoglogue essential oils, such as fennel and basil, stimulate the flow of milk for nursing.
References
- "HypnoBirthing® and Yoga Tools for a Peaceful Pregnancy, Birth and Parenting Experience"; Linette Landa; 2005
- "Aromatherapy Guide to Essential Oils"; Farris, Melissa; 2001
- "The New Age Herbalist"; Mabey, Richard; 1988
- "The Practice of Aromatherapy"; Vanet, Jean; 1990
- Bella Oils: "Essential Oil Info"
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