8 Pregnancy Safe Essential Oils For Anxiety And Stress

Pregnancy can be exciting and fulfilling but can also come with its fair share of anxiety and stress.

From concerns about the baby’s health to changes in your body, it’s normal to feel overwhelmed sometimes. Thankfully, there are natural ways to ease these feelings, such as using essential oils.

In this blog post, we will discuss some pregnancy-safe essential oils to naturally calm their anxiety and stress!

Essential oils are precious extracts from plants that contain highly concentrated aromatic compounds.

These oils are prized for their potent scent and their many therapeutic benefits, which have been used for centuries.

They are often extracted through a careful process of steam distillation or cold pressing, which preserves the natural properties of the plant.

These oils are widely used in aromatherapy, natural medicine, and skincare products for their numerous benefits to physical and emotional health.

Essential oils offer a wide range of potential benefits for both physical and emotional health. Some of the most commonly known benefits include:

• Immune Support: Essential oils like eucalyptus, tea tree, and oregano have antimicrobial properties that can help support the immune system. These oils can be diffused in the air or applied topically to the feet or chest to help ward off illness.
• Stress and Anxiety Relief: Essential oils like lavender, bergamot, and chamomile are known for their calming properties and can help reduce stress and anxiety. These oils are often used in aromatherapy to promote relaxation and a sense of calm.
• Mood Enhancement: Essential oils such as grapefruit, orange, and lemon have uplifting properties that can help improve mood and promote a sense of well-being. They can be diffused in the home or workplace to help create a positive and energizing atmosphere.
• Improved Sleep: Essential oils such as lavender, ylang-ylang, and sandalwood have sedative effects that can help improve the quality of sleep. They can be diffused in the bedroom or added to a warm bath before bedtime to help promote restful sleep.
• Mental Clarity: Essential oils like peppermint, rosemary, and lemon have invigorating properties that can help improve focus, concentration, and mental clarity. They can be diffused in the workspace or applied topically to the temples to help enhance cognitive function.
• Respiratory Health: Essential oils such as peppermint, eucalyptus, and rosemary can help open up the airways and relieve respiratory symptoms such as congestion, coughing, and wheezing. They can be added to steam inhalation or used in a diffuser to promote easier breathing.
• Pain Relief: Essential oils like peppermint, eucalyptus, and frankincense have natural analgesic properties that can help relieve pain and inflammation. They can be applied topically or used in a massage to soothe sore muscles and joints.
• Digestive Support: Essential oils such as ginger, peppermint, and fennel can help improve digestion and relieve digestive discomfort. They can be taken orally in small doses or applied topically to the abdomen.
• Skin Health: Essential oils like tea tree, lavender, and frankincense have antimicrobial and anti-inflammatory properties that can help improve the appearance of the skin. They can be added to skin care products or used in a facial steam to help soothe and rejuvenate the skin.

While essential oils offer many potential benefits, it is important to note that they should be used with caution. These concentrated oils can cause skin irritation or other side effects if not used properly.

It is important to know that not all essential oils mentioned above are pregnancy-safe; read on to learn the eight pregnancy-safe essential oils as I delve into them later on. 

When using essential oils, be sure to follow the instructions of a qualified practitioner.

When inhaled, the aroma of essential oils can stimulate the olfactory system, which sends signals to the brain’s limbic system.

The limbic system is responsible for regulating emotions, memory, and mood.

Essential oils can also be absorbed through the skin and into the bloodstream, where they can have various effects on the body.

For example, some essential oils have natural anti-inflammatory or analgesic properties that can help relieve pain and inflammation. Others have antimicrobial properties that can help fight off infections.

Additionally, some essential oils have a balancing effect on the body’s systems, such as the nervous or digestive system.

They can help regulate the body’s natural processes and promote overall health and well-being.

Overall, the therapeutic benefits of essential oils are attributed to their unique chemical composition, which can vary depending on the plant species and extraction method. It is important to note that essential oils should be used with caution and under the guidance of a qualified practitioner, as improper use or overuse can cause adverse reactions or side effects.

During pregnancy, hormonal changes can lead to physical and emotional stress and anxiety.

Essential oils can help soothe these symptoms as they contain compounds that interact with the limbic system of the brain, which controls emotions and behaviors.

When essential oils are inhaled or absorbed through the skin, they activate the olfactory system, which sends signals to the brain, leading to a calming effect on the mind and body.

This can help to reduce anxiety and stress levels, promoting relaxation and a sense of well-being.

Furthermore, essential oils like lavender and chamomile contain specific compounds such as linalool and alpha-pinene, which have been found to have a sedative effect, aiding in sleep and reducing anxiety.

Many pregnant women use essential oils to help with symptoms like nausea and fatigue. However, there is some debate over whether or not these oils are safe for use during pregnancy.

Some experts argue that essential oils are too potent and if used topically can be harmful to both the mother and the developing baby. Others point out that essential oils have been used for centuries in many cultures without any reported adverse effects.

Ultimately, the decision of whether or not to use essential oils during pregnancy should be made on a case-by-case basis, in consultation with a healthcare provider.

If you have been using essential oils and are familiar with its usage and functions and you do decide to use essential oils during pregnancy, be sure to use them in moderation and always dilute them with a carrier oil before applying them to your skin. More on this later!

The most safest way is to use diffuser and you can actually use pregnancy safe essential oils everyday using your diffuser.

No, not all essential oils are safe for pregnant women. Some essential oils can actually be harmful to you and your baby.

That is why if you are at all unsure, even after reading this article or any research study, it is important to consult with your doctor or midwife before using any essential oils.

They will be able to tell you which ones are safe for you to use and which ones you should avoid.

For many pregnant women, essential oils can be a safe and effective way to relieve various symptoms like anxiety, stress, nausea, headaches, and fatigue.

If you’re interested in using essential oils during pregnancy, it’s important to purchase pregnancy-safe essential oils. Additionally, Essential oils can also be dangerous if used incorrectly.

Here are some basic rules for using essential oils safely during pregnancy:

• First, make sure the essential oil is properly diluted. The European cosmetic safety standards recommend limiting the usage of essential oils to 2% or less of the total end product volume for most body care formulations. This means that the ideal ratio of essential oil to carrier oil is 2%, which is 2 ml of essential oil per 100 ml of carrier oil.
• Second, AVOID using them on broken skin or mucous membranes. Don’t ingest essential oil during pregnancy (I mean not at all). Personally, I have used essential oils in diffusers and have also diluted them with carrier oil, and it has worked wonders during my first, second, and third trimesters.
• Third, only purchase essential oils that are from reputable sources or brands that use pure, high-quality ingredients.
• Fourth, use essential oils sparingly. A little goes a long way with essential oils. I usually start with four to five drops of essential oils in diffusers and increase or decrease them based on the aroma I feel diffused in the atmosphere. 

• Fifth, be sure to store essential oils out of reach of children and pets.

Finally, if in doubt, consult with a healthcare professional (or your midwife: here in Spain, they are called Matrona) before using essential oils during pregnancy.

By following these guidelines, you can safely use essential oils during pregnancy.

The following are not pregnancy-safe essential oils, so please AVOID them as they are known to be harmful to pregnant women, such as

• • Sage
  • Clary sage
  • Caraway
  • Wintergreen
  • Cinnamon
  • Rosemary
  • Mugwort
  • Birch
  • Fennel
  • Marjoram
  • Thuja
  • Tarragon
  • Basil (estragole CT)
  • Tansy
  • Wormwood
  • Pennyroyal
  • Camphor
  • Aniseed
  • Parsely seed or leaf
  • Hyssop

So do diligent research and buy pregnancy-safe essential oils only.

If you are pregnant and suffering from anxiety, it is important to consult with your doctor before using essential oils.

Some essential oils can be unsafe for pregnant women. Once you have consulted with your doctor, however, the following are a few essential oils that can be very helpful in calming anxiety and stress during pregnancy.

Numerous studies have demonstrated the anxiety-reducing and sleep-promoting effects of lavender essential oil, making it a valuable natural remedy for pregnant women who often experience heightened levels of anxiety and sleep disruptions.

Moreover, The study found that aromatherapy massage of lavender essential oils significantly reduced stress levels and improved immune function in pregnant women, as compared to the control group.

The oil is considered safe for use during pregnancy and can be applied topically (in diluted form) or diffused for inhalation.

Chamomile oil has been safely used for centuries, and its calming effects are well-documented.

In addition, chamomile essential oil is gentle and non-irritating, making it an ideal choice for pregnant women.

While there is no definitive evidence that chamomile essential oil can relieve all pregnancy symptoms, many women find that it helps to reduce stress and promote relaxation.

It is another good option for those suffering from anxiety during pregnancy. This oil has a sweet, floral scent that can help to soothe and calm the mind. It is also commonly used to help improve the appearance of stretch marks. When used in massage, neroli oil can help to improve circulation and relieve tension in the muscles.

This oil is extracted from the flowers of the tropical ylang-ylang tree, and it has a sweet, floral scent. It can also be helpful in relieving common pregnancy symptoms such as nausea and headaches. When used in massage, ylang-ylang oil can help to ease muscle tension and promote a sense of well-being.

Bergamot oil is safe to use during pregnancy and can offer a welcome respite from the challenges of pregnancy. In addition to its calming effects, bergamot oil can also help to relieve nausea and other common pregnancy symptoms.

The oil is also said to help improve circulation and promote healthy cell growth. Some women even use the oil to help prevent stretch marks. While there is no scientific evidence to support these claims, many women swear by the benefits of frankincense essential oil during pregnancy.

According to some studies, peppermint oil may help to relieve common pregnancy symptoms like nausea and anxiety. In addition, it is believed to promote relaxation and improve circulation. Peppermint essential oil is generally considered safe for topical use, but it should be used in diluted form and avoided during the first trimester.

The ginger essential oil can help to ease anxiety and common pregnancy symptoms such as nausea and vomiting. It can also help to improve circulation and reduce inflammation. When used in a diffuser, the ginger essential oil can also help to clear congestion and calm the nerves.

And always start with a small amount of oil and increase as needed. With the right essential oil, you can find relief from your anxiety and enjoy a calm and relaxing pregnancy.

My personal favourite for using in diffuser are ginger essential oil, peppermint essential oil, orange essential oil, bergamot essential oil.

Pregnancy is a wonderful time, but it can also be overwhelming. Essential oils which have always been a huge part of my life helped ease some of the common pregnancy symptoms like anxiety and nausea.

During my pregnancy I mainly used essential oils in diffuser. It is the most safest way to enjoy the benefit of aromatherapy in general. And, I also diluted essential oils in carrier oils and applied them topically. This way, got most benefits of the essential oils without having to worry about them being too strong. PS: Diffusing essential oils helps you inhale the EO which provide few benefits to applying them topically which has more power, but one should always follows guideline while diluting the essential oils or buy the already diluted essential oils.

As per the European cosmetic safety standards, for most body care formulations, it is recommended that essential oils make up no more than 2% of your total end product volume. This means that the ideal ratio of essential oil to carrier oil is 2%, which is 2ml of essential oil per 100 ml of carrier oil.

Common pregnancy symptoms like nausea can be relieved with a small amount of peppermint essential oil diluted in a carrier oil like fractionated coconut oil or almond oil.

Since I live in Spain, I did try using virgin olive oil as a carrier oil but I would suggest not to in case you really want to enjoy the smell of the essential oil. The virgin olive oil smell may overpower the smell of EO.

To use after dilution, simply rub a few drops on your temple or wrist. You can also add a few drops of essential oil to your bathtub or massage it into your skin after diluting it in a carrier oil.

With so many options, there’s no reason not to give essential oils a try!

Yes, essential oils can be very helpful in promoting sleep during pregnancy. If you are having trouble sleeping, try diffusing lavender oil or chamomile oil in your bedroom.

You can also add a few drops of lavender oil to your pillow to help you relax and get a good night’s sleep. If anxiety is preventing you from getting the restful sleep you need during pregnancy, consider using essential oils to help you relax and ease your anxiety.

With the right essential oil, you can find relief from your anxiety and enjoy a calm and relaxing pregnancy.

If you’re looking for a diffuser blend oil, Balance Bliss is a great option for pregnant women.

It’s a blend of lavender, bergamot and frankincense essential oils, all these essential oils are safe for pregnant women.

If you want to use topically, then just dilute it with the carrier oil as in a ration mentioned as above and apply Balance Bliss to your wrists or neck and breathe deeply to enjoy the calming effects.

If you experience an allergic reaction to essential oil, it is important to seek medical attention immediately.

Symptoms of an allergic reaction can include difficulty breathing, hives, and swelling of the face, lips, or tongue. In some cases of pregnancy, essential oils can exacerbate common pregnancy symptoms such as nausea and fatigue.

Therefore, It is important to consult with a physician before using essential oils, particularly if you are pregnant or have a history of allergies.

If you do experience an allergic reaction, stop using the essential oil immediately and contact a healthcare professional.

As a pregnant woman, you may be looking for natural ways to relieve anxiety and other common pregnancy symptoms. As anyone who has experienced pregnancy can attest, the hormonal changes and physical symptoms can be overwhelming at times. Essential oils are one option that you may want to consider.

While essential oils have not been extensively studied during pregnancy, there is some evidence that they can be beneficial. For example, one study found that lavender essential oil was effective in reducing anxiety during pregnancy. Other essential oils, such as ginger and chamomile, have also been shown to be beneficial for common pregnancy symptoms like nausea and vomiting.

If you are interested in using essential oils, be sure to talk to your healthcare provider first. They can provide guidance on which essential oils are safe to use during pregnancy and how to use them safely.

There are a few things to keep in mind when using essential oils during pregnancy. First, make sure to choose high-quality essential oils from a reputable source. Second, always dilute the essential oils before applying them to the skin. And finally, consult with your healthcare provider before using essential oils if you have any concerns.

Essential oils can be a valuable addition to your self-care routine during pregnancy. When used safely and correctly, they can help to ease anxiety and promote relaxation.

If you’re looking for more information on living a healthy lifestyle during pregnancy, check out our other blog post on the subject: