There are some divided ideas on the dangers of certain essential oils used in aromatherapy during pregnancy, but since this time should be a time to enjoy and to prepare for the upcoming birth of your child, it would be wise to rather give some essential oils a miss. Aromatherapy can be a great benefit during pregnancy and assists in minimizing some of the discomfort and aches. There are however some compounds in certain essential oils that have hormone-like behavior because of their molecular structure and although there is no conclusive evidence on the effect of estrogenic oils it would be prudent to avoid anethole rich oils, like fennel and aniseed during pregnancy.
Although some oils are listed as abortifacient oils, it is mainly due to their toxic nature, and should in any case not be used in aromatherapy massage at any time.
Some essential oils are however not toxic, but have emmenagogue action, which is to help to promote and regulate the menstrual flow (periods), and should be avoided during pregnancy.
We have compiled a list below, in which we endeavored to list all the oils which we think should not be used for massage while you are pregnant.
We have compiled the list from all known oils that may in some way or other interfere with this very special time, but give nor infer any guarantee or warranty of safety for any oil not included on this list.
If you are unsure if an oil can be used, kindly refer it to your licensed medical practitioner for his or her advice and directions.
Essential oils to be avoided in pregnancy Pregnancy and essential oil safety in aromatherapy
Almond - bitter Toxic
Aniseed - Anethole rich
Angelica - Emmenagogue
Basil - Possible irritant
Birch - Possible irritant
Black pepper - Skin sensitization
Boldo leaf - Toxic
Buchu - Liver hazardous
Calamus - Toxic
Camphor -Toxic
Cassia - Skin sensitization
Cedarwood - Emmenagogue
Chamomile - Emmenagogue
Cinnamon - Skin sensitization and emmenagogue
Clary sage - Emmenagogue
Clove - Skin sensitization
Elecampane - Skin sensitization
Fennel - Anethole rich
Fir - Possible irritant
Ginger - Emmenagogue
Horseradish - Toxic
Hyssop - Could cause toxicity
Jaborandi leaf - Toxic
Jasmine - Emmenagogue
Juniper - Emmenagogue
Lemon - Possible irritant
Lemongrass - Possible irritant
Marjoram - Emmenagogue
Melissa - Possible irritant
Mugwort - Toxic
Mustard - Toxic
Myrrh -Emmenagogue
Nightshade - Toxic
Nutmeg - Skin sensitization
Oregano - Skin sensitization
Parsley seed - Apiol rich
Pennyroyal - Toxic
Peppermint - Emmenagogue
Pine - Skin sensitization
Rose - Emmenagogue
Rosemary - Emmenagogue
Rue - Toxic
Sage - High thujone content
Sassafras - Toxic
Savin - Toxic
Savory - Could cause toxicity
Southernwood - Toxic
Stinging nettle - Toxic
Tansy - Toxic
Thuja - Toxic
Thyme both Red and Linalol) - Possible irritant
Wintergreen -Toxic
Wormseed - Toxic
Wormwood - Toxic