Many essential oils should be avoided during the first eight months of pregnancy. Know which ones these are.

Caution

The following is a list of oils universally accepted as being UNSUITABLE for use during pregnancy:

• Aniseed
• Clove
• Juniper
• Basil
• Clary sage
• Cypress
• Fennel
• Hyssop
• Jasmine (use from 36th week)
• Melissa (use from 36th week)
• Marjoram
• Myrrh
• Cinnamon
• Pennyroyal
• Peppermint
• Rose
• Rosemary
• Sage
• Pine
• Parsley
• Camphor
• Tarragon
• Thyme
• Wintergreen

Self Help

Always carry out an allergy test by placing one drop of oil in a teaspoon of water and rub into the arm near the elbow. Wait for two hours. If irritation occurs, find an alternative oil. The same test can be carried out with any base oil although there is no need to dilute first.

It is best to avoid all essential oils during the first trimester. Store all oils in a dark-coloured bottle protected from heat or sunlight. Do not use essential oils neat on the skin, except for lavender. Dilute in a carrier or base oil or in water.