The use of essential oils (EO) is attracting more and more interest due to their aromatic and therapeutic properties. However, it is essential to know the necessary precautions when using them, especially during pregnancy and breastfeeding. The first three months of pregnancy are considered critical, because certain EOs can be potentially dangerous for the developing fetus. In this article, we will discuss precautions and restrictions regarding the use of EOs during pregnancy and breastfeeding.

Use of essential oils during pregnancy:

During the first three months of pregnancy, it is strongly recommended to avoid the use of essential oils. Some EOs contain ketone molecules considered neurotoxic. Improper use of these oils can cause nerve spasms, breathing problems and nausea. The main risk to avoid is that of miscarriage. In addition, the effects of EOs on the embryo's endocrine system are not yet fully understood, which justifies caution. From the fourth month of pregnancy, a low dose of EO can be used locally, only through the skin and after dilution to 5% in a suitable massage oil can be done.

Precautions to take during pregnancy:

It is important to observe the following precautions when using essential oils during pregnancy:

1. Never ingest essential oils throughout pregnancy.
2. Limit the total amount of EO used to six drops per day.
3. Use essential oils only by skin application and always dilute in a suitable massage oil. It is recommended to consult a dilution guide to obtain the correct dilution. (training from the Academy of Scientific Massage)
4. Avoid the most neurotoxic essential oils containing ketones and camphor, such as sage, mints, eucalyptus, camphor extracts, etc.
5. Avoid essential oils known to be abortifacients, such as cypress, cedar, palmarosa, niaouli, clove, etc.
6. Do not apply essential oils or essential oil-based cosmetics to the abdominal area.
7. Never administer pure essential oils to a pregnant woman, whether cutaneously or orally.

Using Essential Oils While Breastfeeding:

The same precautions recommended for women four months pregnant also apply to women who are breastfeeding. The main objective is to avoid the child's exposure to essential oils and their still poorly understood effects.

Precautions to take while breastfeeding:

The following precautions should be observed when using essential oils while breastfeeding:

1. All essential oils are not recommended orally during pregnancy and breastfeeding.
2. No pure essential oil should be applied directly to the skin.
3. Diffusing essential oils is the safest method. For safe diffusion, it is recommended to use 15 drops of bergamot essential oil (Citrus aurantium ssp bergamia).

During pregnancy and breastfeeding, it is crucial to take proper precautions when using essential oils. During the first three months of pregnancy, it is best to avoid essential oils completely due to potential risks to the fetus. From the fourth month of pregnancy and during breastfeeding, limited and cautious use of essential oils is authorized, only through the skin and after adequate dilution. It is always recommended to consult a qualified healthcare professional before using essential oils during this special time in a woman's life.