The Evidence on Essential Oils During Pregnancy, Birth, and Postpartum

Essential oils are naturally occurring oils made by steam distillation or cold pressing the flowers, roots, seeds, fruit, or bark of plants. These concentrated extracts retain the essence of the plant’s fragrance. Essential oils have long been a part of complementary and alternative medicine in aromatherapy, topical application, or ingestion. Natural remedies, like essential oils, are an attractive alternative for expecting mothers who wish to avoid chemicals or pharmaceuticals and utilize more natural remedies. Most information on essential oils comes from the marketing of the companies that manufacture them or their representatives. There are a lot of claims that essential oils can treat everything from common discomforts to severe illnesses. It can be challenging to determine which claims are valid and which may be exaggerated. This episode examines the safety of essential oils during pregnancy and the evidence of their effectiveness in treating pregnancy symptoms and improving your birth experience. Plus, tips for buying essential oils.   Thank you to our sponsors   15% off Boppy.com with the promo code PREGPOD15. Boppy nursing pillows make breastfeeding or bottle feeding your baby so much easier. Designed with experts like lactation consultants to provide ergonomic support for you and your baby, Boppy nursing pillows are a lifesaver for new parents. As a reminder, Boppy products are for your baby's supervised, awake time. These products are not for sleep.   Save 20% off your Simply Magnetic Me order with the code PREGNANCY. Simply Magnetic Me clothing is crafted with 100% organic cotton and sew-safe magnetic closures that connect quickly and quietly. All you do is line up the fabric, and it magically closes. This means you spend less time fussing with snaps, and zippers and more time connecting with your baby.   20% off Mommy Steps or Form insoles with the promo code FEET. Mommy Steps insoles combine optimal arch support with a comfortable cradle for your foot. Changes during pregnancy like rapid weight gain and increased levels of Relaxin can create lifelong changes to the structure of your feet. Keeping your feet properly supported during pregnancy can help alleviate common pregnancy-related foot problems.   FREE 1 year supply of immune-supporting Vitamin D AND 5 FREE travel packs with your first purchase of AG1. With one delicious scoop of AG1, you’re absorbing 75 high-quality vitamins, minerals, whole-food sourced superfoods, probiotics, and adaptogens to help you start your day right. This special blend of ingredients supports your gut health, nervous system, immune system, energy, recovery, focus, and aging. As a friendly reminder, pregnant or nursing women should seek professional medical advice before taking this or any other dietary supplement.   Read the full article and resources that accompany this episode.   Join Pregnancy Podcast Premium to access the entire back catalog, listen to all episodes ad-free, get a copy of the Your Birth Plan Book, and more.   For more evidence-based information, visit the Pregnancy Podcast website.