The following essential oils should be avoided altogether during pregnancy:

Angelica; Aniseed: Basil; Bay; Birch; Bitter Almond; Camphor; Cassia; Caraway; Carrot Seed; Cedarwood; Celery; Chamomile; Clary Sage; Clove; Cinnamon; Comphrey; Cumin; Cypress; Eucalyptus; Fennel; Galbanum; Hyssop; Jasmine; Juniper; Marjoram; Melissa; Mugwart; Mustard; Myrrh; Nutmeg; Origanum; Parsley; Pennyroyal; Peppermint (and during breastfeeding as it could discourage the flow of milk); Rose; Rosemary; Sage; Santolina; Spearmint; Tarragon; Thyme; Wintergreen; Wormwood; Yarrow.

All of the above oils are emmenagogues, which means they promote and regularise menstrual flow, causing your period to start.The main reason why pregnant women are encouraged not to use essential oils during pregnancy is that due to their tiny molecular structure, plant essences can easily slip through the skin and into your bloodstream. When pregnant, your skin becomes more permeable, making it even easier and quicker for the oils to enter the bloodstream and cross the placental barrier.

There is actually no evidence that has been found that suggests unborn babies have been harmed due to the use of essential oils during pregnancy, but the best approach would be to avoid the use of essential oils on the skin as some oils are very stimulating. Some can have a stimulating effect on the kidneys and liver and some have a stimulating effect on the uterus, which could cause miscarriage. A safer approach would be to vaporise essential oils into the room.

A gentle massage can be very beneficial to both mother and baby. Shea butter oil is fantastic for the skin as it contains vitamins, minerals, proteins and essential fatty acids. It also has mild anti-bacterial and anti-inflammatory properties and is a very good preventative for stretch marks.

Some books on essential oils say it is alright to use one particular oil whereas another will say avoid altogether during pregnancy. If in any doubt, do not use any essential oils while pregnant, or you could consult your doctor.

Why not visit our pregnancy, new mums and babies section.