|
Related Articles | Message Board
|
Health News Aromatherapy During Pregnancy, Essential Oils.
Aromatherapy is especially suited to pregnancy because of the gentle nature of many essential oils, although, they must be used with knowledge and care. The old adage, “if a little is good, a lot is better” does not apply to aromatherapy. Rather, a little goes a long way is a better philosophy when using essential oils. And essential oils during childbirth are a safe, natural and beautiful way to help you feel calm and confident while going through one of the most empowering experiences of your life as a woman. When buying essential oils always look for labels that state “pure essential oils”. Price is usually a good indicator of quality so buy the most expensive oils you can afford. Although an oil might smell nice, if it isn’t pure it will not have the therapeutic qualities you might expect. Essential oils will last longer if stored in a dark glass container. Never buy or store oils in plastic. As a pregnant woman there are certain precautions that you must consider when using essential oils. Never apply essential oils directly to the skin without first diluting them in a carrier oil, or bath water or mixing them with a cream or lotion. Essential oils should only be used externally and never taken by mouth. As a rule of thumb, pregnant women should only use essential oils that are derived from flowers, rather than herbs. One final caution, if you have experienced a miscarriage in the past, it is best not to use any essential oils for at least the first three months of pregnancy. Massage is especially good for a woman during pregnancy to help relax the body and ease discomforts. Scenting the air can also relax or rejuvenate you, and it’s easy to do. Add 2 to 6 drops of essential oil to a bowl of hot water, or 2 to 4 drops of essential oils to a diffuser to add a soft fragrance to the air. You can also add 2 to 6 drops of essential oil to a cotton ball and place it behind a radiator or, with a gentle oil such as lavender, place it under your pillow. Where Aromatherapy Helps Most Some of the most important ways in which Aromatherapy can help you enjoy your pregnancy and your new baby are:It can help you deal with stress. It will aid relaxation, help develop a more positive outlook, and, therefore, help with the birth. A happy, relaxed mother is one who is more likely to cope well with labor and to relax and bond with her baby afterward. It can help with tiredness, aches, and pains, and it can provide relief from all kinds of minor ailments that result during pregnancy. It can back up and complement what is learned at relaxation and prenatal classes. It can help prevent stretch marks by keeping the skin well nourished, and it can aid in helping the mother feel good about herself during her pregnancy. Mothers-to-be who experience the benefits of aromatherapy are more likely to be in touch with their bodies and their pregnancies, which benefits both mother and baby. The caring touch of a massage, either from a qualified aromatherapist or from a partner, is highly therapeutic. A woman who can appreciate the touch and care she receives while being massaged is more likely to bond well with her baby using her own tactile sense. Mothers-to-be often report a feeling of extreme peace and well being after an aromatherapy massage. The massage can also help relieve the tensions in her life; her face may take on a look of tranquility. Aromatherapy cannot remove day-to-day problems, but someone who is relaxed can deal with them much better. During the late 1940’s a new era opened up for women, an era that encouraged the use of breathing methods, relaxation, and massage as aids to a pain controlled labor. Aromatherapy has also become a highly acceptable form of treatment over the last decade. Women can be in control of their pain and emotions using the time-tested healing powers of aromatics. Women also now have a choice about how they give birth; even for those in favor of modern methods of pain relief, aromatherapy and massage can still play an important part in their labor, as backup to conventional treatment. How To Use Essential Oils Essential oils can be worked into the body in several different ways. The most common and safe way is: Massage: Massage is helpful for relieving stress and tension, for aiding relaxation, for easing aching muscles, and for general pain relief as well as for improving skin tone and general well being. For an aromatherapy massage, essential oils are added to a carrier oil, such as almond or jojoba before applying to the skin. Pour a small amount of prepared massage oil in the palms of the hands (1/2 to 1 teaspoon will do a back or leg adequately). Massage gently and always massage toward the heart. Do not massage near varicose veins (glide around them), on hot, swollen joints, or when a fever is present. Foot Massage: A foot massage is excellent for relieving tension and to revive and re-energize a tired body. It’s complete bliss for swollen or aching feet. Spread the prepared oil all over one foot and around the ankle. With hands cupped around the foot and fingers steadying the front of the foot, use the thumbs to make circular pressures on the sole. Gently squeeze and press the foot as though you were trying to make it into a pliable piece of dough. Repeat with the other foot. Facial Massage: Facial massages will help care for any type of skin in every condition, both during and after pregnancy. Apply the prepared oil very sparingly to the face and neck at night after cleansing. Always use gentle upward movements to apply the oil (to reverse the effects of gravity). Try not to drag the skin. Aromatic Baths: For an aromatic bath during pregnancy, add 2 to 4 drops of the chosen essential oils to a warm bath (never too hot). Swish the water around to disperse the oil. Relax and soak in the bath for ten to fifteen minutes to enjoy the aroma and let the oils to their work.Sitz Bath or Bidet Both a sitz bath and a bidet are used for washing and soothing the hips and genital area (particularly useful for just after childbirth). A sitz bath can be improvised by filling an ordinary bath with enough warm water to just cover the lower abdomen. Add 2 drops of the chosen essential oil to a sitz bath or bidet. Mix the water well before stepping in. Soak for five to ten minutes.Footbaths Add 2 to 3 drops of the chosen essential oil to a bowl of hot water. Soak the feet for ten to twenty minutes.Showers Essential oils can be used in the shower. They are best used by washing as normal, then add 2 to 3 drops of your chosen essential oil to a sponge or washcloth and rub it over the body while standing under the water and breathing the vapors.Compresses Compresses are wonderful for treating labor pain. They are useful for muscular aches and pains, sprains or bruises and to help reduce pain in general. For headaches, swellings, sprains, wounds, etc. use a cold compress. For chronic pain such as backache, muscular pain, labor pain, earache, etc. use a hot compress.Add 2 to 4 drops of essential oil to ½ pint (300 ml) of water (either hot or cold according to what is needed). Agitate to mix the oils. Take a small cloth, washcloth or towel and lay it on top of the water so that the oils are picked up on the underside. Lay the cloth on the affected part. Cover with a small dry towel and leave in place until the cold compress has warmed to body temperature or the hot compress has lost heat. Repeat as required. Inhalations Inhalations are used to clear congestion that comes with colds and sinusitis. They can be extremely effective in unblocking the nose and helping relieve the nasal passages. Steam inhalations are not suitable for asthmatics (essential oils may be used in the bath) or for children under ten years of age. It is also very difficult to get a small child to sit over a bowl of water. Children over ten should be supervised at all times and they should only inhale steam for a few minutes. In fact, if they have a cold, it is better to sniff the oils on a tissue or have the oil vaporized in a room near them. Smaller children can have the same oils in the bath in a low dilution (1 to 2 drops only). For sniffly babies, the oils can be used in a special room vaporizer.Steam Inhalations: To a bowl of very hot (but not boiling) water, add 2 to 4 drops of the chosen essential oil.Cover your head with a small dry towel (if you so choose), lean over the bowl and breathe in the vapor for about 1 to 5 minutes. Using a Tissue or Handkerchief Add 1 drop of essential oil to a tissue or handkerchief and sniff when needed. This is a very handy method of using essential oils if you have a cold, but it is also quite comforting postnatally if you can’t have essential oils beside the bed in hospital. It’s also very useful during labor.Cotton Balls Cotton balls can be used in the rooms of babies or small children, but take great care and make sure the cotton ball is placed where it cannot possibly be reached. If in doubt, don’t use this method. Add 2 to 6 drops of the chosen essential oil to a cotton ball and place in a very safe area of the room.Guide To Essential Oils During Pregnancy There is a vast range of essential oils available but only certain ones should be used during pregnancy; those that are gentle and soothing. Stimulating oils should never be used because their effects are not particularly desirable during pregnancy.
Lavender (Lavandula officinalis) from the lavender flower Lavender oil is known as the great all rounder as it has many uses. It is antibiotic and antiseptic and good for pimples, grazes and minor burns. Used in skin creams it can help cell renewal and minimize scarring. It soothes insect bites, fights off infections, relieves headaches and eases muscular aches and pains. In pregnancy lavender oil is useful for soothing aching backs, legs and ligaments. Lavender has relaxing and antidepressant properties. It has a mild sedative action so it helps insomnia. It is one of two oils (the other being Tea Tree) that are gentle enough to be used directly on the skin. Lavender essential oil is excellent for baths, massages, room fresheners and facial oils. Mandarin (Citrus nobilis) from the rind of the mandarin Mandarin has similar properties to that of tangerine essential oil – calming, gentle and cheery – but has a slightly fresher smell. In leg and ankle massages, mandarin can ease fluid retention. When used in the bath it helps relieve fatigue. Mandarin essential oil is excellent for baths, massages and room fresheners. Neroli (Citrus aurantium) from the flowers of the bitter orange tree Neroli essential oil is absolutely heavenly, but expensive and worth every penny just for the exquisite aroma. It is wonderful as a facial oil, good for dry or sensitive skin and will aid in regenerating skin cells. It is one of the best oils for nervous tension (known also as the “anti panic” oil) because it is so calming and relaxing. Neroli (Citrus aurantium) from the flowers of the bitter orange tree, cont’d. During pregnancy, neroli essential oil is excellent for its ability to promote healthy skin cells. Neroli essential oil is excellent for baths, massages, room fresheners and facial oils. Petitgrain (Citrus aurantium) from the leaves and twigs of the bitter orange tree Petitgrain has similar properties as Neroli – calming and soothing – but is slightly less sedating with a fresher scent. It can be used as a cheaper alternative to neroli. Petitgrain is particularly helpful for dealing with depression, either prenatal or postnatal. A very special massage mix can be made using all three oils from the orange tree (mandarin, neroli and petitgrain). When blended together they make a “total balance” oil – a complete blend for treating depression. It is excellent oil for baths, massages and room fresheners. Tangerine (Citrus reticulata) from the rind of the tangerine Tangerine has a wonderfully uplifting smell. It is a nice, happy oil. It prevents stretch marks and is excellent to use in massage during pregnancy. It is also calming, gentle and good for the nerves and skin. Because it is so mild, it is also a good oil to use for children and the elderly. Tangerine is excellent to use in baths, massages and room fresheners. Ylang Ylang (Canaga odorata) from the flowers of the tropical ylang-ylang tree A very exotic oil that is famed for its perfume. It has relaxing, restoring and aphrodisiac properties and can even help lower high blood pressure. It can also be used to help those who are tense and worried. Ylang Ylang is excellent to use in baths, massage and room fresheners.
Cypress (Cupressus sempervirens) from the evergreen tree Cypress oil may be used AFTER the fifth month of pregnancy, as it is particularly helpful, when mixed with a cooling lotion or gel, for varicose veins. It is a gentle diuretic that can assist in decongesting fluid retention in heavy, aching legs and swollen ankles. Use AFTER the fifth month of pregnancy, in local applications only (lotion/gel). Geranium (Pelargonium graveolens) from the geranium plant Geranium oil is known as an all around balancing oil because it puts the body back in balance. It is a very strong oil and is best avoided as a body massage during pregnancy. Geranium is astringent, refreshing and relaxing with a lovely aroma. Geranium may be used AFTER the fifth month of pregnancy for the wonderful relief it gives to tired and aching legs – it is good for poor circulation. Use in room fresheners and AFTER the fifth month of pregnancy in local massage gels, footbaths and carrier oils. Lemon (Citrus limonum) from the rind of the lemon Lemon essential oil has a sharp, fresh citrus scent. It is refreshing, cooling and antiseptic and aids in circulation. During pregnancy it can be used in a burner (lamp ring/diffuser) for morning sickness and mixed with lotion or gel for varicose veins. Sandalwood (Santalum album) from the sandalwood tree Sandalwood is very exotic, relaxing and is excellent for dry or sensitive skin. It can be particularly helpful for urinary tract infections during pregnancy. Use in baths and for skin care. Tea Tree (Melaleuca alternifolia) from the tropical tea tree Tea Tree is incredibly useful (along with lavender) and mild enough to be used in small quantities directly on the skin. It can be used to deal with thrush during pregnancy. Use in local applications, mixed with lotion or carrier oil.
A Word Of Caution If you suffer from epilepsy or any sensitivity of the nervous system, always consult an Aromatherapist for advise about your choice of essential oils. Some oils, if used indiscriminately or without case, could aggravate your condition or even trigger an attack. DO NOT USE FENNEL, HYSSOP, SAGE AND ROSEMARY.If you suffer from asthma, eczema, dermatitis or any other allergies, aromatherapy can certainly be of help, but ask the advice of an Aromatherapist BEFORE buying essential oils. Consult a physician prior to using any essential oil.
Some citrus oils are "photo toxic", meaning they increase skin pigmentation when used prior to sun exposure. Avoid the use of lemon, orange, grapefruit and lime at least 6 hours before exposure to sun. Pregnancy: Refrain from using the following essential oils while pregnant: basil, camphor, clary sage, cypress, fennel, hyssop, juniper, marjoram and rosemary. If you have epilepsy or high blood pressure avoid peppermint, fennel and rosemary due to the stimulating action these oils have on the nervous system. Babies and children's skin is more sensitive than adults. Any oil used on a baby or child should be diluted with sweet almond oil (available at most health food stores). The table below can be used as a guideline: 0 to 6 months: lavender, roman chamomile: 1 drop oil; 2 tsp. sweet almond oil 6 to 12 months: lavender, roman chamomile, rose: 1 drop oil; 2 tsp. sweet almond oil 1 to 6 years: roman chamomile, lavender, orange, rose, tea tree: 2 drops oil; 2 tsp. sweet almond oil 7 to 12 years: all essential oils. Use 1/4 strength as used for adults. Keep essential oils away from heat, direct sunlight and oxygen as they will deteriorate and their therapeutic value will be reduced. Store essential oils in a cool, dry place, out of reach of children.
Fran Loudas is a Certified Aromatherapist, Certified in the Design and Production of Aromatherapy Body and Skin
Care Products, Oriental Diagnostic Consultant and Herbal Remedy Maker. Wish to Buy Bath and Beauty Products ??
Natural Products. Bergamot : Essential Oils for Aroma Therapy Aroma Therapy Essential Oils that can be very useful for natural skin care. So give your skin a natural and long lasting pampering. www.skincareindia.com/index-cid-12-pid-150.html Chamomile Essential Oil with its uses and Cautions Aroma Therpay : Chamomile Essential Oil : Roman German Chamomile, Their uses and Cautions involved www.skincareindia.com/index-cid-12-pid-151.html Eucalyptus Oil : Cheap and Useful Oil : How to Use Eucalyptus Oil is very useful and a comparatively cheap essential oil. www.skincareindia.com/index-cid-12-pid-152.html Geranium Oil for Aroma Therapy Effective Skincare Geranium Essential Oil is ver useful and a nice aroma comes from it. Effective Aroma Therapy. www.skincareindia.com/index-cid-12-pid-153.html Ayurvedic Aroma Therapy Concepts : Better Skincare Ayurvedic Aromatherapy techniques and essential Oils www.skincareindia.com/index-cid-12-pid-154.html Aroma Therapy : What all You need To Know Get an in-depth information about aromatherapy and various essential oils from the articles by a Certified Aroma Therapist. www.skincareindia.com/index-cid-12-pid-155.html Aromatherapy Technique Massage with Essential Oils Aromatherapy : Massage you Senses, Get a better health, a comprehensive low - down on hand massage techniques using essential oils. www.skincareindia.com/index-cid-12-pid-156.html Aromatherapy During Pregnancy, Essential Oils. Aromatherapy During Pregnancy : Full featured guide abouyt various oils you can use during pregnancy, Alongwith precautions you need to take. Some oild you should avoid during pregnancy www.skincareindia.com/index-cid-12-pid-157.html Aromatherapy Helps in Emotional Upliftment, Try it Emotional Well Being with Aromatherapy : How you can achieve better state of mind with these natural techniques of Aromatherapy. www.skincareindia.com/index-cid-12-pid-158.html Spa Treatment at Home, Enjoy Spa Party at Home. Enoy the Spa treatment in the Comfort of your Home, Don't pay a big sum, Enjoy the Spa party with your Friends. Fran Suggest this in her new article. www.skincareindia.com/index-cid-12-pid-159.html Essential Oils, Essential Guide, Try these Tips Fran Loudas, a certified aroma therapist takes a full coverage of the essential oils that you can use for your Spiritual Upliftment, good health and in many other ways. www.skincareindia.com/index-cid-12-pid-160.html The science of aromatherapy, Find Easy Facts Aromatherapy is widely used to promote emotional and physical ailments. Find out why. www.skincareindia.com/index-cid-12-pid-161.html Carrier oils for aromatherapy, Aromatherapy Guide Carrier oils are used in aromatherapy to mix with essential oil to be applied to the skin. www.skincareindia.com/index-cid-12-pid-162.html Aromatherapy as a Natural Way to Beauty Aromatherapy guide and explanations on how to apply essential oils whether in the form of a body/massage oil, bathing, or a diffuser. www.skincareindia.com/index-cid-12-pid-163.html Aromatherapy guide, Better beauty for Everyone Try this aromatherapyguide to relax or enhance to your mood. Aromatics, essential oils have a long history of medicinal success. www.skincareindia.com/index-cid-12-pid-164.html Aromatherapy history, find the Facts on Beauty Aromatherapy history: For centuries people have consciously and unconsciously used aromatherapy as a means of enhancing moods, creating healing within the body and for relaxation. www.skincareindia.com/index-cid-12-pid-165.html Aromatherapy information: benefits green tea Aromatherapy information: Green tea is healthy and helps promote the body's healing. www.skincareindia.com/index-cid-12-pid-166.html Aromatherapy information, Know More about Aromas Aromatherapy information: What is it? How does Aromatherapy work? How can I use Aromatherapy? www.skincareindia.com/index-cid-12-pid-167.html How olive oil is used in aromatherapy Olive oil has various uses in aromatherapy. Learn how it can be used to promote the body's natural healing ability. www.skincareindia.com/index-cid-12-pid-168.html Aromatherapy oils: rose a natural healer : Beauty Aromatherapy oils: Roses are beautiful and very good for the emotional balance. This article discusses the effect rose has on the body as a natural healer. www.skincareindia.com/index-cid-12-pid-169.html Aromatherapy research and roman chamomile Aromatherapy research: Roman Chamomile is a valuable plant in todays aromatherapy. Learn about its uses... www.skincareindia.com/index-cid-12-pid-170.html Herbal bath products : Body Care and Advice Herbal bath products: Herbs can help you relax, soften and heal skin, clear your mind and perk you up. www.skincareindia.com/index-cid-12-pid-171.html Aroma therapy, How aromatherapy started, How it has been Used in Older Times A breif description of aroma therapy and how different scents can have a possitive effect on your body. Includes recipes and as well as historical information. www.skincareindia.com/index-cid-12-pid-172.html Aroma therapy Basics for Everyone. You can Get Benefit of Essential Oils. Beginners look at Aroma Therapy www.skincareindia.com/index-cid-12-pid-173.html How to extract essential oil from flowers Learn how to extract essential oils from flowers to make your own perfumes. www.skincareindia.com/index-cid-12-pid-174.html Essential Oil Use: What are the benefits, Natural Skin Treatments Learn how to best use essential oils to get the most from this alternative therapy ideal for physical and emotional illnesses. www.skincareindia.com/index-cid-12-pid-175.html Aromatherapy and Essential Oils Guide, Try Natural Treatments Find out different ways to inhale essential oils. www.skincareindia.com/index-cid-12-pid-176.html Benefits of Aromatherapy - How Aromatherapy Helps in Healing Ailments Benefits of aromatherapy:find out how aromatherapy is used for a variety of purposes from the sick room to the bedroom! www.skincareindia.com/index-cid-12-pid-1200.html Emu Oil Homeopathy, Use of Emu Oil in Treatments of Homeopathy The health benefits of emu oil for the treatment of arthritis, joint swelling, wounds, and burns as well as its use as a skin moisturizer. www.skincareindia.com/index-cid-12-pid-1205.html Top of Page | ||||||
Comments / Discussions on these articles
More Categories in Skin Care & Body Care at Skincareindia.com
Basic Skin Care |
Looking Beautiful |
Skin Disorders and Precautions |
Skin Risks |
Ayurvedic Concepts |
Ageing Of Your Skin |
Skin Care |
Body Care |
Hair Care |
Nail Care |
Eye Care |
Body & Fitness |
Aroma Therapy |
Skincare Glossary and Concepts
|