For centuries, the scent of lavender has been a popular natural sleep and relaxation aid. This is something that might appeal if your sleep is being disturbed by the many bodily changes of pregnancy (which might include a kicking baby-in-utero with a different sleep schedule to your own).

Lavender essential oil is widely regarded as safe to use as a natural relaxation aid during either the last two trimesters of pregnancy or in labour, as long as it’s used correctly (see above), such as in a diffuser. Or why not try Nature’s Truth Lavender Essential Oil Mist Spray in your room or on your pillow?

Can I diffuse eucalyptus oil while pregnant?

Aromatherapy with eucalyptus essential oil is popular as a complementary therapy if you’re looking to relieve nasal congestion.

As many over-the-counter cough and cold medications are not approved for use during pregnancy, this might be a time when the clarifying properties of eucalyptus appeal.

Eucalyptus is not believed to be unsafe to use in the second and third trimesters of pregnancy (as above, it’s recommended to avoid all essential oils during the first trimester) as long as it’s used correctly, such as with a diffuser or diluted with a carrier oil.

Can I still use peppermint oil to combat tiredness during pregnancy?

Peppermint essential oil is commonly used to reduce feelings of tiredness and fatigue.

Feelings of tiredness can be a normal part of pregnancy, although some people will experience it more in different trimesters. If you want to bring peppermint oil into your routine during your second or third trimester, it would be best to check with your midwife or a medical professional beforehand – they can advise on how and when to use.

If you get the go-ahead, try spritzing your workspace with Nature’s Truth Peppermint Essential Oil Mist Spray to enjoy the zingy aromatherapy boost of peppermint oil during your pregnancy.

Are there any essential oils to avoid completely during pregnancy?

There’s a long list of oils that are regarded as best avoided using during pregnancy due to any possible toxicity risk. Popular ones that can pop up in your aromatherapy kit include:

• Aniseed
• Arnica
• Basil
• Birch
• Bitter almond
• Calamus
• Camphor
• Cassia
• Cedarwood
• Cinnamon
• Clary sage
• Clove
• Coriander
• Fennel
• Hyssop
• Jasmine
• Juniper berry
• Lavandula stoechas
• Mugwort
• Mustard
• Nutmeg
• Oak moss
• Origanum
• Parsley
• Pennyroyal
• Pine
• Rose
• Rosemary
• Rue
• Sage
• Tansy
• Tarragon
• Thuja
• Thyme red (large doses)
• Wintergreen
• Wormwood
• And more!

If in any doubt about whether an oil is safe, check with your midwife or doctor.

Which essential oils are generally deemed safe for pregnant women?

As noted, all essential oils are deemed unsafe for pregnant women during their first trimester. But as a general rule, these are deemed safe during your second and third trimester:

• Bergamot
• Black pepper
• Chamomile
• Eucalyptus
• Frankincense
• Geranium
• Ginger
• Grapefruit
• Juniper
• Lavender
• Lemon
• Mandarin
• Neroli
• Sandalwood
• Sweet Orange
• Tea Tree
• Ylang Ylang

Remember, everyone should speak to their midwife during their second and third trimesters to determine which essential oils they should be avoiding.

Will aromatherapy help with pain relief in labour?

In the UK, according to the NHS, the National Institute for Clinical Excellence (NICE) states that women shouldn’t be advised to use aromatherapy for pain relief during the latent (early) stage of labour as there is limited evidence to support this.

There are, however, some studies that suggest the aromatherapy use of some essential oils such as lavender could provide pain relief during the active phase of labour.

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Disclaimer
*Always read the instructions on the bottle. Essential oils should be diluted with carrier oil before applying directly to the skin.