Written By: Anusuya Suresh | Updated : October 9, 2014 4:51 PM IST
Finding out you are pregnant can be one of the best feelings you experience as a woman. As the pregnancy progresses, you feel greater joy at the thought of the baby growing within. However, as your body secretes hormones to protect the baby, you may find that euphoric feeling being eclipsed by the discomfort of morning sickness, weight gain and stretch marks, little aches and pains and the mood swings. Fortunately, there is an easy way of dealing with at least some of the unpleasant feelings essential oils.
What are essential oils?
Plants contain some volatile oils that have a distinct fragrance; because of this essence, they are called as essential oils. But these oils are not just about the perfume they have several other properties and can be used as antiseptics, pain-reducing agents, tranquilisers and mood enhancers. However, considering that these oils are highly concentrated and powerful, they need to be used with caution and under the supervision of an expert or in formulations that have gone through clinical trials and are safe.
Use of essential oils in pregnancy
Aromatherapy recommends the use of essential oils by direct application to the skin or through inhalation. When used in the prescribed manner by diluting with a carrier oil or through a vaporiser, they can help relieve some of the discomfort you experience during pregnancy. Clinical trials have shown formulations containing essential oils like calendula and lavender oil to reduce the formation of stretch marks if used from the beginning of the second trimester. Some of the most common essential oils that can be used during pregnancy include:
Lavender oil
Oil of lavender has a significant effect on the skin and can help moisturise and keep skin soft and supple. More importantly, it ensures your skin stays elastic and this can help you avoid stretch marks that develop because of skin extension as your abdomen grows bigger.
Calendula oil
Calendula oil has cell regenerative effects and can be used to treat sensitive, damaged or sunburnt skin. It reduces inflammation and can be used to combat minor skin infections, rashes and superficial irritation.
Neroli oil
It is derived from the citrus group of fruits and shares most of the medicinal properties of the citrus fruits. Neroli oil is a strong bactericidal and can be used as an antiseptic. It also has sedative properties and can be useful in providing relief from problems during pregnancy like irritation, anger, anxiety and depression and relax both body and mind.
German chamomile oil
German chamomile is an essential oil that helps to relieve inflammation and this makes it very effective against pain. Besides, it helps soothe the mind and can help you sleep better.
Peppermint oil
Rich in minerals, vitamins and omega-3 fatty acids that are good for the body, peppermint oil has several health benefits in pregnancy. When added to flavour food, it can help digest food better and also expels gas. If you suffer from a cold, inhaling peppermint oil can help relieve stuffiness in the nose. A dab of peppermint oil on the wrist or on a tissue from which you inhale it can remove a headache.
Bergamot oil
Bergamot oil contains ingredients such as limonene and alpha pinenewhile act as stimulants. If you find yourself feeling low, irritable, anxious or just moody, using this oil can help you feel more positive and energetic.
Essential oils to avoid in pregnancy
While many essential oils are useful in pregnancy, there are some that can have a harmful effect on both you and the baby growing within. Some oils such as jasmine, thyme, citronella and sage can stimulate uterine contractions. Juniper oil can affect the kidneys and rose oil can cause bleeding inside the uterus.
How to use essential oils in pregnancy
The first few months of pregnancy are very critical for the baby growing inside; therefore, it is vital you avoid anything that can pass to the baby and cause medical complications. According to aromatherapy experts, essential oils are safe for use only after the first trimester of pregnancy. Because essential oils are highly powerful, they should be used sparingly just one drop at a time will do. Also, avoid making a habit of using it continuously every day for several weeks together; go for a few days in between without the oil to avoid cumulative effects. As far as possible, dilute the essential oil by mixing 1 drop into 1teaspoon of sweet almond oil or coconut oil.
Who shouldn't use essential oils in their pure form?
Pregnant women who have experienced some vaginal bleeding or those who have previously suffered a miscarriage should completely avoid the use of essential oils. Also, those who suffer from other disorders such as epilepsy or diabetes or disorders of the thyroid, kidney or liver should steer clear of these oils.
To get the most benefit from essential oils and avoid any harmful effects, make sure you use genuine essential oils that are pure and of high quality. Use these oils the right way and rest assured, your journey to being a mother will be definitely a more enjoyable experience.
Remember that essential oils are safe to be used during pregnancy when used in formulations like Bio-oil which have gone through clinical trials. This formulation is a combination of plant extracts and vitamins suspended in an oil base. It contains Vitamin A & E and essential oils like calendula, lavender, rosemary, chamomile and purcellin. Clinical trials have shown that 100% of subjects showed a remarkable reduction in existing stretch marks when the product was used.
To view the product website, you can visit https://www.indiaparenting.com/bio-oil/
To buy the product online, you can visit Purplle.com
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