Safe Essential Oils
Certain essential oils are considered to be safe for pregnant women as a component of aromatherapy. Consider using the following essential oils to ease pregnancy-related discomforts.
Chamomile
Used to reduce stress, ease anxiety and facilitate relaxation.
Geranium
May help to prevent hormone-related mood swings and anxiety.
Jasmine
Traditionally used as an aphrodisiac. Relieves pregnancy-related breast pain.
Lavender
Helps to fight depression and anxiety in expectant mothers. A gentle sedative.
Neroli
Reduces pain and enhances circulation.
Patchouli
Comforting and invigorating. Enhances mood and restores energy levels.
Sandalwood
A potent aphrodisiac and antidepressant. Reduces pain and inflammation.
Ylang-Ylang
Used to relieve fear, agitation and anger. Useful for pregnancy-related anxiety.
Frankincense
Powerfully anti-inflammatoy. Helps to relieve pain. Calms nerves and promotes a sense of well-being.
Rose
Promotes emotional balance. Soothes anxiety, insomnia and tension.
Unsafe Essential Oils
Some other essential oils may also be safe for use in pregnant women, but aromatherapy experts rarely venture outside the narrow range of acceptable oils. Most aromatherapy oils can cause problems if they are used incorrectly during pregnancy, but some are particularly dangerous. Expectant mothers should carefully avoid the following unsafe essential oils for pregnancy:
Hyssop
Can disrupt the neurological development of a fetus. May trigger seizures in pregnant women.
Sage
Traditionally used to induce labor. May alter hormone levels and cause preterm birth.
Clary-Sage
Triggers contractions of the uterus. Alters blood-flow to the placenta.
Fennel
May cause miscarriage or preterm labor. Elevates estrogen levels.
Anise
Spikes levels of estrogen and prolactin; may induce labor or miscarriage.
Rosemary
A known stimulant. Elevates blood pressure and alters blood-flow to the fetus. Particularly dangerous for women with pre-eclampsia.
Pennyroyal
Stimulates contractions in the uterus. May harm the baby's developing liver.
Juniper
May cause contractions and preterm birth. Traditionally used to induce labor, menstruation and miscarriage.
Parsley
Influences bloodflow to the uterus and placenta. May cause preterm birth and unpleasant skin reactions.