So you’re expecting! Congratulations, mama. Those nine months of pregnancy are an incredible journey, full of lots of ups and downs. You’re probably looking for safe and natural ways to relieve some of the discomforts that come with pregnancy like nausea, back pain or stress. Essential oils are a great option, as long as you choose and use them carefully.
Many popular essential oils are safe for use during pregnancy if diluted properly. We’ve rounded up the best essential oils for pregnancy to help support you through each trimester. From lavender for relaxation to peppermint for nausea relief, here are the essential oils you’ll want to have on hand for your pregnancy.
List Of The Best Essential Oils For Pregnancy
Essential Oils for Pregnancy Morning Sickness
Morning sickness is no joke, especially when you’re pregnant. The good news is there are several essential oils that can help relieve your nausea without the nasty side effects of medication.
Lavender essential oil is one of the safest for pregnancy and works wonders for calming an upset tummy. Add a few drops to a diffuser or place a diluted drop under your tongue. The soothing floral scent will relax your senses and ease queasiness.
Chamomile essential oil has anti-nausea properties and a pleasant, herbaceous aroma. Mix a diluted drop into a cup of warm chamomile tea or a cool glass of water. The combination of inhaling and ingesting this gentle oil will relax your stomach in no time.
If your nausea is related to certain smells, peppermint essential oil can help. Its refreshing, uplifting scent overpowers unpleasant odors that trigger your upset stomach. Simply open the bottle and inhale deeply. The cool, tingling vapor will stimulate your senses and relieve discomfort.
For inflammation-related morning sickness, ginger essential oil works best. Massage a diluted drop onto your wrists, neck, and behind the ears. Ginger’s spicy and warming fragrance will soothe your stomach and reduce feelings of sickness.
Specifications
- Product Name: Morning Sickness Relief Essential Oils Blend
- Ingredients: A carefully curated blend of ginger, spearmint, and lemon essential oils known for their soothing properties during pregnancy.
- Volume: 10ml
- Application: Dilute a few drops in a carrier oil and apply to pulse points or use in a diffuser for aromatherapy benefits.
- Safety: 100% pure, natural, and safe for use during pregnancy when properly diluted.
- Packaging: Amber glass bottle with a dropper for easy application.
PROS
- Natural and safe remedy for morning sickness during pregnancy.
- Convenient and easy-to-use with a pleasant aroma.
- Helps alleviate nausea and promotes relaxation.
CONS
- Individual results may vary; effectiveness might differ from person to person.
- Some pregnant women may have aversions to certain scents during morning sickness.
There are many natural solutions for pregnancy morning sickness. With the advice of your doctor, explore how essential oils can bring you relief and comfort during this special time. Your wellbeing and your baby’s healthy development are worth the effort to find what works for you.
Frida Mom Stretch Prep Balm - Moisturizer for Pregnancy
The stretch marks that come with pregnancy can be unpleasant, but Frida Mom Stretch Prep Balm is specially formulated to help. This balm is safe for pregnancy skin and works to moisturize and promote skin elasticity, which can help reduce the appearance of stretch marks.
The Stretch Prep Balm contains nourishing ingredients like shea butter, jojoba oil, and vitamin E that moisturize skin and promote suppleness. As your belly grows during pregnancy, keeping skin hydrated and elastic is key to minimizing stretch marks. The balm is unscented and free from parabens, phthalates, and synthetic dyes.
Start using the Stretch Prep Balm as early in your pregnancy as possible, especially during your second and third trimesters when your belly is growing the most. Apply the balm twice a day, massaging it thoroughly into your abdomen, hips, thighs, and any other areas where your skin is stretching. For the best results, apply the balm right after showering while your skin is still damp.
Additional Tips To Remember
- Drink plenty of water to keep your skin hydrated from the inside out.
- Avoid harsh soaps that can strip moisture and natural oils from your skin.
- Exercise regularly to improve circulation, which promotes skin elasticity. Walking, swimming or light yoga are great options during pregnancy.
- Get enough rest so your body can focus on skin regeneration while you sleep.
- Eat a healthy diet with plenty of nutrients like vitamin C, vitamin E, and omega-3 fatty acids that support skin health.
Specifications
- Product Name: Frida Mom Stretch Prep Balm
- Ingredients: Shea butter, cocoa butter, and avocado oil, enriched with Vitamin E and natural extracts.
- Quantity: 120g (4.2 oz)
- Application: Apply liberally on belly, hips, and breasts to moisturize and prepare the skin for stretching during pregnancy.
- Hypoallergenic: Yes, suitable for sensitive skin and dermatologically tested.
- Packaging: Convenient screw-top jar for easy application.
PROS
- Rich and nourishing formula helps prevent stretch marks during pregnancy.
- Hydrates and soothes itchy, dry skin caused by stretching.
- Hypoallergenic and safe for sensitive skin.
CONS
- Some users may find the scent or texture overpowering.
- Results may vary based on individual skin types and pregnancy-related factors.
Using the Stretch Prep Balm, staying hydrated, eating right and reducing stress can all help make a big difference in preventing stretch marks during your pregnancy. With the right self-care, you’ll be able to enjoy your journey to motherhood with confidence in your skin.
Burts Bees Gift Set, 3 Pregnancy Skin Care Products
Burt’s Bees Mama Bee gift set is a thoughtful present for any expectant mother. This specially curated collection of pregnancy skin care products will soothe and comfort her changing body.
Belly Butter
The rich Mama Bee Belly Butter is made from cocoa butter, shea butter and jojoba butter to deeply moisturize and nourish stretching skin. Gently massage it over your baby bump and any itchy areas for quick relief. The natural ingredients are safe and gentle, perfect for delicate pregnancy skin.
Lip Balm
Pregnancy hormones can cause dry, chapped lips. The classic Beeswax Lip Balm hydrates and protects lips with a blend of coconut, olive and sunflower oils, and of course, beeswax. This simple formula has only 100% natural ingredients and a light, sweet honey flavor.
Leg & Foot Cream
Swollen feet and legs are common during pregnancy, but the Mama Bee Leg & Foot Cream can help provide cooling comfort. Natural peppermint and rosemary essential oils produce a refreshing tingling sensation. The rich cream also contains olive oil, coconut oil, beeswax and shea butter to soften, soothe and reduce inflammation.
This thoughtful gift set from a trusted brand like Burt’s Bees, with high quality, natural ingredients and products specially formulated for pregnancy, would make a wonderful baby shower gift for any new mom. The savings of 15% by purchasing the set, compared to buying the products individually, is an added bonus. Any pregnant woman would surely appreciate such a pampering, practical gift to help her stay comfortable and confident during this very special time.
Specifications
- Product Name: Burt’s Bees Mama Bee Gift Set
- Included Products: Mama Bee Belly Butter, Leg & Foot Cream, and Nourishing Body Oil.
- Quantity: Belly Butter – 185g (6.5 oz), Leg & Foot Cream – 85g (3 oz), Nourishing Body Oil – 115ml (4 oz).
- Ingredients: Natural plant-based ingredients like shea butter, cocoa butter, vitamin E, and almond oil.
- Application: Use the belly butter to nourish the belly, the leg & foot cream for tired legs, and the body oil for overall skin hydration.
- Packaging: Attractive gift set packaging.
PROS
- A complete set of pregnancy skin care essentials for a pampering experience.
- Natural ingredients that promote skin health and elasticity.
- Thoughtful gift option for expecting mothers.
CONS
- Some users may prefer fragrance-free products.
- The body oil may leave a slightly greasy feeling on the skin if applied excessively.
Things To Keep In Mind While Getting The Best Essential Oils For Pregnancy
When using essential oils during pregnancy, there are a few things you’ll want to keep in mind. Safety is key here, for both you and your baby.
Only use oils meant for pregnancy
Some essential oils can be dangerous for expectant mothers and babies. Only choose oils that are specifically recommended for use during pregnancy. Oils like lavender, lemon, and peppermint are considered safe when properly diluted. Avoid potentially toxic oils like rosemary, clary sage, basil, jasmine, and nutmeg. If in doubt, check with your doctor.
Always properly dilute the oils
Essential oils are highly concentrated, so they must be diluted in a carrier oil like coconut, almond or jojoba oil before applying to your skin. For pregnancy, a 2% dilution (12 drops of essential oil per ounce of carrier oil) is recommended. You can increase to 3% for nausea relief. Always do a patch test on your skin first to check for irritation.
Use oils cautiously during the first trimester
It is best to avoid using essential oils during the first 12 weeks of pregnancy unless advised by your doctor. The first trimester is when your baby’s major organs are forming, so err on the side of caution. After 12 weeks, you can use properly diluted essential oils topically by inhaling, diffusing or in a bath.
Talk to your doctor about any concerns
If you have underlying health conditions or concerns about using essential oils during pregnancy, talk to your doctor. They can evaluate which oils and methods of use may be appropriate and safe for your unique situation. It is always better to be safe than sorry when it comes to your baby’s health and development.
By following these guidelines, you can safely enjoy the benefits of essential oils during your pregnancy. Be sure to also drink plenty of water, eat healthy, reduce stress, and get lots of rest. Your baby will thank you!
Conclusion
So there you have it, a few of the best essential oils that can help relieve some common pregnancy discomforts and keep you feeling your best during this exciting time. While essential oils are natural and generally very safe, always check with your doctor first, especially if you have any underlying health conditions. But when used properly and under guidance, essential oils can be a welcome reprieve from some of the tougher parts of pregnancy and help you connect with this profound experience. Take a deep breath, literally, give these oils a try, and enjoy this beautiful journey into motherhood. The final trimester will be here before you know it!