PREGNANCY

You can use essential oils after the 3rd month of pregnancy, with the consent of your GP or Consultant and under the supervision of someone qualified in the use of essential oils. Some midwives are trained now and some maternity units use essential oils, so ask your hospital about this if you would like to do so.

Massage is beneficial, aiding relaxation. I do advise you to seek the advice of a qualified aromatherapist, as she/he will be able to advise you and meet your aromatherapy needs throughout the pregnancy. She/he will be able to advise you on the appropriate oils for you to use, mix you a blend of essential oils into base products such as a body lotion or bath foam/shower gel, and advise you on using your oils at home.

Oils you can use after 3rd month, at 1% strength or less.

Bergamot FCF
Chamomile (German or Roman)
Frankincense
Geranium
Ginger
Grapefruit
Lavender
Lemon
Mandarin
Neroli
Petitgrain
Rose Otto
Orange, Bitter
Orange, Sweet
Patchouli
Sandalwood
Tea Tree
Vetivert
Ylang Ylang

Oils you can use from 6th month onwards:

Cajeput
Cypress
Naiouli
Scotch Pine

After the birth, Lavender can be helpful in healing soreness. If you have had a caesarian, Mandarin oil is helpful for healing scars but only massage up to the scar tissue, not over it. Any scar tissue shouldn't be massaged over for 2 years following the operation. Use your essential oils at a 1% strength only (1 drop of essential oil to 5ml of unscented bath product or body lotion).

Flame the Dragon by Amanda Penrose