Essential Oils That Should Be Avoided
During Pregnancy
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One of my biggest pet peeves is when people say things like "Oh it's naturally based so its got to be gentle" or "We use only natural ingredients so our stuff is 100% safe". That statement just simply isn't true. Just because something comes from nature doesn't mean it's safe. Poison Ivy is found in nature, poisonous snakes are found in nature, there are countless poisonous herbs and berries that are highly toxic and yes....found in nature. God gave us oodles of healing herbs and tools, but he also put a lot of other really harmful stuff out there too and it's our job to educate ourselves on which is which.
Now don't get me wrong..I get the statement that they're trying to make. I understand that they mean to say we're a safer alternative than those harmful chemical-laden companies and yes for the most part I agree. However sometimes even those "natural" products containing safe, natural ingredients should be avoided sometimes....such as when you're pregnant. Essential oils are not excluded from this.Essential oils are a FANTASTIC way to naturally treat and heal a variety of things. Essential oils are amazing, however during pregnancy there are some that should be avoided. The jury is still out on a lot of the facts with essential oils and pregnancy mainly because there just isn't much research done on the topic however these are the most commonly known and warned against.
Let me also say, I only condone using essential oils that are 100% pure, tested, and safe. For that reason I recommend Spark Naturals. No, they are not the only pure EO company out there, but they are the only ones I trust during my pregnancy and know to be safe and pure. Also, like always you should consult your doctor if you ever have any questions or concerns with using essential oils. I am not a doctor, this is not medical advice, I'm simply a second time mommy who wanted to share my list of oils I avoid during pregnancy. Alright so...without further ado..here we go:
Aniseed (Pimpinella anisum)
This oil is primarily trans-anethole which has been known to cause dermatitis in some individuals as well as producing estrogen-like reactions in the body. This oil is also not recommended for individuals with endometriosis or estrogen-dependant cancers.
Basil (Ocimum basilicum)
Can irritate sensitive skin, also has emmenagogue properties which stimulate blood flow to the pelvic region.
Birch (Betula lenta)
This oil has high concentration of methyl salicylate, which should be avoided by both pregnant women and anyone with epilepsy.
Calamus (Acorus calamus)
Contains a compound called asorone which can cause convulsions and hallucinations. Asorone is considered to be carcinogenic.
Camphor (Cinnamomum camphora)
This oil is classed as a convulsant and neurotoxin. Overdosing can cause convulsions and vomiting. Individuals with epilepsy and asthma should not use this oil either.
Cassia (Cinnamomum cassia)
This oil is known for being a dermal irritant, dermal sensitizer and a mucus membrane irritant.
Cinnamon Bark (Cinnamomum zeylanicum)
This oil is both a strong sensitizer and an irritant. It should not be used in any skin care products or massage blends.
Clary Sage (Salvia sclarea)
This oil can in some cases induce uterine contractions and bleeding, is also an oestrogenic. Also avoid this oil while drinking as it can cause a narcotic affect when mixed with alcohol.
Clove (Eugenia caryophyllata)
It may cause skin irritation and irritate mucus membranes.Individuals with kidney and liver conditions should avoid this oil as well.
Fennel (Foeniculum vulgare)
Like Aniseed it contains high amounts of trans-anethole which has been known to cause dermatitis in some individuals as well as producing estrogen-like reactions in the body. This oil is also not recommended for individuals with endometriosis, estrogen-dependant cancers, or women breastfeeding.
Hyssop (Hyssopus officinalis)
This oil contains pinocamphone which gives off toxic affects. This oil should also be avoided by people suffering from epilepsy.
Lemongrass (Cymbopogon citratus)
Has been known to cause skin irritations.
Mugwort (Artemisia vulgaris)
This oil is toxic, causes irritations, and produces narcotic effects on both the brain and the nervous system. Under no circumstances should this oil be used by a pregnant woman.
Oregano (Origanum vulgare)
This oil is a known as a skin and mucus membrane irritant.
Pennyroyal (Mentha pulegium)
This is a highly toxic, poisonous, abortifacient oil. Under no circumstances should this oil be used during pregnancy.
Rosemary (Rosmarinus officinalis)
Just like Basil, this oil has emmenagogue properties which stimulate blood flow to the pelvic region and act as a uterine stimulant.
Sage (Salvia officinalis)
This oil is classified as an oral toxin, and in large doses can cause convulsions. This oil should not be used by individuals suffering from epilepsy or high blood pressure.
Tansy (Tanacetum vulgare)
This oil can cause convulsions and epileptic-like attacks, and even small doses can be lethal. Under no circumstances should be used by a pregnant woman.
Terragon (Artemisia dracunculus)
This oil can be moderately toxic due to the methyl chavicol in the oil, and should be avoided during pregnancy. This oil should not be given to young children.
Thyme (Thymus vulgaris)
Known skin and mucus membrane irritant. Breastfeeding women, and children should also avoid this oil.
Vetiver (Vetiveria zizanoides)
Recommended to use cautiously during pregnancy.
White Fir (Abies alba)
Can cause skin irritation, use cautiously.
Wintergreen (Gaultheria procumbens)
Just like with Birch this oil has high concentration of methyl salicylate, which should be avoided by both pregnant women and anyone with epilepsy. Additionally, because this oil is an anti-coagulant it may increase the effect of pharmaceutical blood thinners.
Wormwood (Artemisia absinthium)
This oil contains an extremely high amount of thujone which is a convulsant and neurotoxin. Under no circumstances should this oil be used by a pregnant woman.
Alright, well there it is. My list of essential oils to avoid during pregnancy. Since finding out I'm pregnant I'm having to look over all of my labels to make sure the face washes, masks, lotions, etc that I'm using contain none of these oils. I use Perfectly Posh products which although they are naturally based they still have products I have to avoid while pregnant..like their Wakey Wakey skin stick that has Rosemary essential oil in it. It's not hard you guys...I promise, just give your products a quick label check. After you've done that I think you've totally earned a nap, ooohh or maybe a foot massage, yes...opt for the foot massage. Feel free to message me with any questions and like I said earlier...this is a guide, consult your doctors. Good? Good. Love you guys!
