During pregnancy essential oils can help with all sorts of ailments from aches and pains to skin conditions. Some essential oils may help to keep the skin well nourished to avoid stretch marks. Other essential oils will assist with the overwhelming exhaustion and fatigue that is common in most pregnancies. Many essential oils can help to protect against viruses such as the cold and flu viruses. They may also help with nausea, varicose veins, cramps, digestion and anxiety.

Roman Chamomile essential oil is a wonderful oil for those women who experience the itchiness that comes when the skin is stretching. It may also help to soothe any inflamed or irritated areas and is known to help to relax the body and mind.

Lavender essential oil is excellent for its immune stimulating and balancing properties. It is well known as an anti-anxiety and anti-depressant essential oil and it may also help with fluid retention. Use it in the bath, in a diffuser or in a massage. Mix Lavender essential oil and Chamomile essential oil together to make a wonderful sweet smelling blend.

Mandarin essential oil is a gentle, relaxing oil that is enjoyed by young and old alike. Add it to a cream, carrier oil or lotion to help prevent stretch marks. It may also relieve tummy upsets, edema and fatigue.

Neroli essential oil, made from the flowers from the orange tree, is a must for those who are experiencing nervous tension and insomnia due to hormonal changes.

Essential Oils for 2 & 3rd Trimester

After the first trimester the following essential oils may be safe to use: Bergamot, Chamomile, Frankincense, Geranium, Ginger, Grapefruit, Lavender, Lemon, Mandarin, Neroli, Orange, Patchouli, Petitgrain, Rose, Sandalwood and Ylang Ylang essential oils. Clary Sage and Jasmine essential oils should only be used during labour.

All essential oils should be diluted in a good quality carrier oil such as jojoba oil, at a 1% dilution. For example, to 30mls of your chosen carrier oil add ½ ml or 15 drops of essential oil.

Essential Oils for Labour

Essential oils can offer a tremendous benefit during labour. Essential oils to have in the delivery room should include Frankincense, Jasmine, Rose, Clary Sage, Lavender and Neroli.

Lavender is a fabulous multi-purpose essential oil. Because of its analgesic properties it can be used for uterine pain and leg and back aches. Lavender essential oil also has a wonderful calming effect on all present.

A compress made with Clary Sage essential oil will give pain relief from contractions. Due to its anti spasmodic and analgesic properties Jasmine essential oil will help to reduce uterine pain and strengthen contractions to shorten labour.

Neroli and Frankincense essential oils, used in a diffuser or on a tissue, may help with breathing. Neroli is also a great confidence booster and an anti-depressant.

Rose essential oil, with its floral aroma, may promote relaxation and calm. It can be used in the bath during the early stages of labour and in a massage blend on back or abdomen.