There are some divided ideas on the dangers of certain essential oils used in aromatherapy during pregnancy, but since this time should be a time to enjoy and to prepare for the upcoming birth of your child, it would be wise to rather give some essentials oils a miss.
Aromatherapy can be a great benefit during pregnancy and assists in minimizing some of the discomfort and aches.
There are however some compounds in certain essential oils that have hormone-like behaviour because of their molecular structure and although there is no conclusive evidence on the effect of estrogenic oils it would be prudent to avoid anethole rich oils, like fennel and aniseed during pregnancy.
This list has been compiled with oils that are recommended to be avoided in pregnancy.
Almond – bitter Aniseed
Angelica Root Basil
Birch Black pepper
Camphor Caraway
Cedarwood Cypress
Chamomile* Cinnamon
Clary sage Clove
Eucalyptus Fennel
Fir Geranium
Ginger Hyssop
Jasmine** Juniper
Lavender* Lemon
Lemon grass Marjoram
Melissa Myrrh
Nutmeg Oregano
Pennyroyal Peppermint
Pine Rose*
Rosemary Sage
Stinging nettle Tansy
Thyme Yarrow*
Wintergreen
Chamomile, lavender & rose may be used in low doses in last trimester. ** Jasmine can be used during delivery, as it will ease labour.
Thanks Deb Drummond for information in this article.