Understanding essential oils can be a little bit confusing for those who have never studied naturopathy. Although they are called oils, they are the essence of the plants that they come from. A delicate extraction method is used to steam the herbs and flowers, which gently breaks down the plant material to release the essence. Since it takes many pounds of plant material to produce a small amount of essential oils, the result is a concentrated liquid that is very potent. If it is used improperly, it can negatively affect to a mother and her unborn baby. For this reason, pregnant women should read the following information on how to use essential oils safely:
First Trimester
Extra caution has to be used during the first three months of pregnancy for a mother because the baby is still very small and a miscarriage could occur if anything causes too much stress on the mother. Be sure to consult a doctor about which oils are safe to use during this trimester.
Second Trimester
Once the baby has grown a little bigger, the risk of miscarriage is decreased. But it is still best to avoid certain essential oils during the second trimester. However, a few essential oils that are very gentle can start to be introduced to help an expectant mother alleviate discomfort of pregnancy and aid relaxation. For example, chamomile essential oil can be diluted with coconut oil to use on the skin to reduce skin imperfections. It is also helpful for treating any blemishes that have developed on the face. Ylang ylang and lavender can also be used topically in homemade lotions, cool baths, and foot treatments.
Third Trimester
The last stretch of the pregnancy is often the most enjoyable because a woman is so excited that her baby will soon be born. But since the baby has grown much larger, there is extra pressure on the hips and lower back that can make them ache all the time. To help alleviate this discomfort, a woman can have her partner massage diluted rose essential oil into the areas affected. Or she can soak in a warm bath that has one or two drops of the essential oil added to it. However, caution should be used to not bathe in water that is too warm because this could cause harm to the baby during pregnancy.
