Why are most essential oils not recommended for pregnant and breastfeeding women?

According to a study, essential oil penetrates the skin barrier at a concentration equal to or greater than 3% in a topical formula. Consequently, traces of it can be found in breast milk, which may cause respiratory spasms and/or nausea in infants.

Some essential oils should be avoided throughout the entire duration of pregnancy : Ajowan, Dill, Angelica, Bergamot, Bergaptene-free Bergamot, Juniper, Cajeput, Wild Chamomile, Cinnamon, Caraway, Atlas Cedar, Javanese Lemongrass, Clove, Kaffir Lime, Coriander, Sea Fennel, Turmeric, Frankincense, Tarragon, Eucalyptus Globulus, Eucalyptus Smithii, Sweet Fennel, Galbanum, Juniper, Madagascar Everlasting, Italian Everlasting, Khella, Spanish Lavender, Greenland Moss, Lemongrass, Lovage, Wild Marjoram, Lemon Balm, Peppermint, Spearmint, Nutmeg, Green Myrtle, Red Myrtle, Lemon Myrtle, Himalayan Spikenard, Sweet Orange, Compact Oregano, Green Oregano, Spanish Oregano, Palmarosa, Grapefruit, Patchouli, Douglas Pine, Scots Pine, Black Pepper, Hemlock, Camphor Rosemary, Eucalyptus Rosemary, Siberian Fir, Balsam Fir, Mountain Savory, Lavender Leaf Sage, Clary Sage, Turpentine,Linalool Thyme, Thymol Thyme, Goldenrod, Exotic Verbena, Vetiver.

In other instances, the use of certain essential oils may be permitted from the fourth month of pregnancy onwards. This usage is then only through topical application. Certain essential oils require a doctor's recommendation: Basil, German Chamomile, Cistus, Provence Cypress, Black Spruce, Wintergreen, Rose Geranium, Ginger, Lavender Spike, Pistacia Lentiscus, Field Mint, Niaouli, Rosemary Verbenone, Annual Tansy, Thyme with Savory leaves. If the use of these essential oils is authorised for you, adhere to the instructions and prescribed dosage, particularly in regards to:

• The application: avoid the abdominal belt and areas close to the baby.

• The number of drops ;

• the duration of use;

• The frequency of use.

Take note! Particularly low in ketones, certain essential oils do not require a doctor's approval before being used topically after the fourth month of pregnancy. These include Roman Chamomile, Cardamom, Lemon, Lemon Eucalyptus, Eucalyptus Radiata, Fragrant Inula, Bay Laurel, True Lavender, Fine Lavender, Super Lavandin, Green Mandarin, Shell Marjoram, Neroli, Petitgrain Bigarade, Ravintsara, Saro, Tea Tree, Thyme with Thujanol and Fragrant Verbena.