Expecting a baby is a unique chapter in life, full of joy and new beginnings. At the same time, it brings with it a number of changes, both physical and psychological. Nausea, fatigue, mood swings and sleep disorders are part of this period. In this sensitive time, aromatherapy brings gentle and natural support, but only if it is used with the utmost caution and knowledge of precise rules. It is crucial to know that some essential oils will adversely affect the course of pregnancy, especially in the first trimester, when the placenta is still developing and does not provide full protection for the fetus.
1. Floral Waters During Pregnancy: Safe and Gentle Use
Flower Waters are generally considered safe during pregnancy, which gives them a major advantage over essential oils. Essential oils are 100% aromatic, while floral waters contain only 0,1% essential oil. They have a homeopathic aspect, carrying the memory imprint of the entire plant and its vibrational energy.
Which floral waters are suitable during pregnancy?
They are almost all. Expectant mothers will be pleased Damask rose flower water (or rose water), which with its intoxicating scent creates a sense of security, harmonizes the mind and relieves tension. It is also a great and gentle first aid for discomfort in the female parts. You can't go wrong with white rose or centipede rose flower water either. Simply rose water and motherhood belong together. They are also suitable for future mothers of Chamomile Water a lavender water, which not only relaxes, but also has anti-inflammatory effects, which is really useful during the hormonal storm of pregnancy. Another great hydrolate is lemon balm, which helps with morning sickness.
Which floral waters should you avoid?
First trimester: According to Canadian hydrotherapy expert and leading aromatherapist S. Catty, it is advisable to avoid the following flower waters in the first trimester: Cornflower (phytohormones), Cypress, Rosemary, Juniper, Sage.
Throughout pregnancy: According to her colleague L. Bosson, it is advisable to avoid the following flower waters throughout pregnancy: Clary Sage, Cinnamon, Carrot, Jasmine (only for internal use), Pine, Vetiver.
2. Essential oils during pregnancy: What you need to know
It is important to note that the first trimester is the most sensitive period for toxicity. It is not true that we know enough to be able to clearly determine which essential oils are completely safe during this period and which are not. Therefore, it would be easiest to avoid all essential oils during pregnancy in order to minimize stress and any concerns. Instead, we will use safe floral waters.
Possible approaches to essential oils during pregnancy:
Complete avoidance throughout pregnancy.
Only the first trimester is avoided.
Usage is very limited.
It is used only when necessary.
Dosage and safety rules for application to the skin during pregnancy:
In general, a maximum dilution of 2% essential oils when applied to the skin during pregnancy applies. This practically means:
Add 4 (1%) to 9 (2%) drops of essential oil to 1 tablespoon of vegetable oil (15 ml).
In 30 ml of vegetable oil, 9 (1%) to 18 (2%) drops maximum.
It always applies: less is better than more!
Diffusion and inhalation
As for diffusion and inhalation, we have nothing to worry about, as R. Tisserand of the Tisserand Institute writes.
A little TIP: At the beginning of pregnancy, when women are most likely to suffer from nausea, one drop of safe citrus essential oil (for example Orange, Mandarin or Lemon) on a tissue.
You can find suitable essential oils here.
Essential oils to completely avoid during pregnancy (IMPORTANT!):
From a general safety perspective, it is advisable to completely avoid the following essential oils during pregnancy:
Extremely dangerous: Juniper tree (note: it has nothing to do with the safe common juniper).
High risk of miscarriage: Turmeric zedoaria.
Containing estrogenic ingredients: Myrtle, Anise, Fennel.
Causing fetotoxicity(those that cause defects in the development of the embryo and fetus): Birch, Carrot seeds, Cassia, Cinnamon, Thuja, Lavender stoechas, Lemongrass, Oregano, Licorice, Wormwood.
Anti-angiogenic oils (inhibit VEGF, which promotes the formation of new blood vessels): Blue Cypress, Myrrh, Turmeric zedoaria.
Another risk of miscarriage: Parsley, Allspice, Fragrant rue, Sage, Thuja, Common tansy, Wormwood, Tarragon, Hyssop, Basil, Common nettle.
3. Floral waters for childbirth: Calm and the power of nature
Floral waters become invaluable companions even during childbirth, helping to create a pleasant and calming atmosphere.
Spraying
Using flower water in a diffuser to gently freshen the mother and the room during labor. L. Bosson recommends Neroli flower water for calming stress and Damask Rose for inducing a sense of security.
Tiles
Floral waters are applied in the form of compresses to soothe the mother's back. S. Catty mentions a hot compress with 250 ml of undiluted clary sage floral waters, applied to the lower abdomen and back during contractions. If a water birth is taking place, Clary Sage flower water can be applied directly to the bath.
Baths
Floral waters are added to the birthing pool for aromatic and calming effects (Clary sage, Damask rose).
4. Floral waters in postpartum care and the first six weeks of pregnancy: Support for mother and baby
The first six weeks of pregnancy are a time for recovery and building a deep bond with your baby. It is crucial to avoid essential oils, which are absolutely unsuitable for children under 2 years old.
Use only floral waters that are safe, gentle, non-irritating, and soothing.
In the six weeks after giving birth, stick to the “holy trinity”: Lavender, Damask Rose, Roman chamomile and later gradually incorporate others.
For baby
Bath cosmetics: 1 teaspoon of flower water.
Diffusion: You diffuse floral waters in a diffuser, which is a great alternative to essential oils.
Homemade wet wipes: Use floral waters to make homemade wet wipes.
For mom
Emotional support: Floral waters are great for supporting emotional healing after childbirth. Damask rose It helps to create a deeper bond between mother and baby and provides a sense of security.
Physical regeneration: Rinsing of female areas (sitz bath with rose hydrolate or Roman chamomile for regeneration and healing of the perineal area), care for cracked nipples - compresses made of lavender and rose flower water for their regeneration.
Delicate perfume: Floral waters also serve as a delicate natural perfume.
For a relaxing environment: Tips for creating a relaxing environment for both newborn and mother. Suitable flower waters for newborns: Damask rose, Lavender, Roman chamomile.
SoZoLe Rose: Your partner for safe aromatherapy
V SoZoLe At Rose, we understand that responsible aromatherapy is key, especially during such a sensitive period as pregnancy and the postpartum period. We offer you only the highest quality floral waters and essential oils to safely help you on this amazing journey. Trust us and choose the best for yourself and your baby from our offer.
