Yet another tragic interaction that can occur is the use of certain essential oils during pregnancy. All essential oils, no matter what sort, must be diluted more so if used while pregnant. The general rule of thumb is to use half as much as you would normally, or cut essential oil blend recipes in half. This is done because the growing baby, when exposed to essential oils in high amounts (in addition to other chemicals) can become sensitized and when born may have allergies and be more prone to chemical sensitive while growing up and in adulthood. In addition to this strong danger, some essential oils are emmenagogue or contain such properties and can cause the uterus to start premature contractions. Due to this factor and other contraindications, the below essential oils should never be used during pregnancy, not even in diluted or cut amounts;
- Anise
- Angelica
- Basil
- Laurel
- Cedarwood (all sorts)
- Cinnamon
- Clasry Sage
- Clove
- Fennel
- Hyssop
- Juniper
- Lovage
- Myrrh
- Nutmeg
- Thyme (white variety)
Some essential oils may be used during pregnancy but not in the first 4 months. These include;
- Rosemary
- Rose
- Peppermint
What many people fail to realize is these essential oils are added to many household and cosmetic products, the most common being soaps, detergents, cleaners, perfumes, cosmetics and the like. They are added to foods many times as well which can be even worse than if applied to the skin. It's very wise to read labels carefully and stay away from heavily scented products. Some find avoiding scenting products at all is quite helpful. This is what my mother did and none of my siblings have any problems with allergies or overly sensitive skin conditions.
Once again, while these botanicals may be all right in whole, herbal form, they are not in the highly concentrated essential oil forms.
-MAM
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