Oils and pregnancy
Essential oils are an incredible way to support a healthy and happy pregnancy. It can all be a little overwhelming, so I wanted to cover some frequently asked questions and give you a guide for using oils during each trimester!
Safety
Whether you’ve used oils before pregnancy or not, you may be wondering which oils are safe, beneficial, or what oils to use for what symptoms. I’ll cover the basics, but like with anything, you should always consult your doctor or midwife when introducing something new to your routine.
Common oils to avoid during pregnancy
Aniseed
Basil
Birch
Camphor
Clary Sage
Oak Moss
Parsley Seed or Leaf
Peppermint
Rosemary
Tansy
Thuja
Thyme
Wintergreen
And remember - essential oils aren’t regulated, so it’s important to choose a brand that offers high-quality, third-party tested essential oils.
The First Trimester
Morning Sickness
If you’re struggling with morning sickness, food aversions, or general nausea, ginger essential oil can give you some relief. Diffuse the oil throughout the day.
Emotions
In the first trimester and throughout pregnancy, you may feel like your hormones and emotions are alllll over the place. Calming and grounding oils like frankincense is great for helping you calm your mind and ease any anxious thoughts! Diffuse whenever you need to relax.
Energy
If you’re feeling zapped by first-trimester fatigue, try diffusing an uplifting scent like lemon or orange! Simple Earth’s Energy blend is another great one to clear your mind and boost your mood.
Second Trimester
Constipation
Nobody wants to talk about it, but it is a common symptom during pregnancy. If your digestive system needs some support, apply ginger and lemon oils around your belly as needed.
Heartburn
If you’re feeling like your chest is on fire, orange oil can help ease the burn and give you some relief.
Swelling
During your second or third trimester, you may start to swell. This DIY massage oil is great to have your partner massage your feet and ankles with. And don’t forget to elevate your feet!
Circulation Massage Oil
In a 2oz dropper bottle, add 5 drops of cypress, lemon, tangerine, and 1 drop of lemongrass. Fill the rest with fractionated coconut oil or carrier oil of your choice.
Stretch Marks
Skin stretches and grows during pregnancy, causing trauma and resulting in stretch marks! It’s completely normal to see stretch marks throughout pregnancy, but the stretching and pulling can make your skin itchy and uncomfortable. Although you may not be able to prevent stretch marks, you can support your skin and promote healing.
Belly Oil
In a 2oz dropper bottle, add 15 drops of frankincense. Fill the rest with a carrier oil like coconut oil, sweet almond oil, or vitamin e and apply it to your belly morning and night.
Third Trimester
Stay Calm
As you’re nearing the end of pregnancy, emotions are high! Peace & Quiet is a great blend to diffuse when you need to relax.
Sleep
Sleep can be hard to come by towards the end of pregnancy. Frankincense, lavender, and roman chamomile are a few of my favorites to diffuse at night to promote restful sleep.
Pregnancy is a beautiful season, but it can be difficult dealing with the many symptoms and body changes that come along with it. Essential oils, when used safely, are a great way to support a healthy pregnancy.
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