Contents
What is an essential oil?
Essential oil is the aromatic liquid extracted by distillation from the fragrant part of a plant. It can originate from flowers, leaves, fruits, bark, seeds and roots. Very powerful, it contains up to 200 different chemical molecules which will act like a medicine. But it also has an impact on the energy and information level. In other words, it acts on the brain and improves its functioning.
In general, the therapeutic properties of essential oils are very varied: antibacterial, antiseptic, anti-inflammatory, calming, toning… They can be used by the cutaneous route (in the form of massage), by the olfactory route (by breathing them) and outside pregnancy by the internal route.
Essential oils prohibited during pregnancy
Essential oils enter the blood in different ways and work throughout the body. They therefore reach the baby. All essential oils that contain ketones are prohibited for pregnant women. And for good reason, these substances are potentially neurotoxic and can cause an abortion. Example: officinal sage, peppermint, dill, rosemary verbenone …
In addition, essential oils which have an action on the hormonal system (called hormon-like) are also to be avoided.
For more precaution, we recommend to do not use essential oils by mouth throughout the pregnancy, neither in the belly (especially in the first trimester, unless expressly recommended by a professional).
Essential oils allowed during pregnancy
About thirty essential oils are authorizeds in the future mother, quite simply because they do not close sensitive molecules in quantities at risk. So why deprive yourself of it, when you know exactly how difficult it is to take care of yourself when you are expecting a baby. For exemple, lemon essence is very effective in combating nausea in the first trimester. To relax, lavender and chamomile are recommended. Against constipation, very common during pregnancy, ginger is beneficial. Laurel, on the other hand, is very useful in relieving back pain.
The rules for using essential oils properly
- Give preference to the cutaneous and olfactory routes, and ban all essential oils as a precaution in the first trimester
- Regarding the mode of use: dilute 3 – 4 drops of essential oil in vegetable oil (ratio 1 to 10 at least) then massage the affected area. And diffuse your essential oils in the atmosphere thanks to an electric diffuser.
- With exceptions, do not apply no essential oils on the abdominal area and chest during the nine months of your pregnancy.
- Aromatherapy treatments, which are so essential orally, are generally short: between 1 and 5 days. Essential oils work quickly.
- Always seek advice from a pharmacist or specialist before using an essential oil. No self-medication, especially in the first trimester!
- Buy essential oils in specialty stores or organic stores, never in the markets.
- Use good quality (100% pure and natural) and reputable brand essential oils. Always check the composition, the name of the most represented molecules, the name of the laboratory, the organ of the plant that has been distilled.