Pregnancy aromatherapy MM
Aromatherapist RoseAnna Gallop tells MM how this gentle complementary therapy can help ease all types of aches and pains - physical and mental - during pregnancy!
Gently does it...
RoseAnna Gallop Aromatherapist
While you probably love being pregnant, the chances are that, between an aching back, swollen feet and baby kicking non- stop, you’re probably feeling a little sore and stressed.
One of the most popular ways of alleviating stress is through aromatherapy - a relaxation technique which features essential oils that have been extracted from plants to help boost health and overall well-being.
Aromatherapy has been used for thousands of years by numerous civilisations, including those in ancient Egypt, Greece and China, to alleviate aches and to inspire relaxation.
Unfortunately, although aromatherapy has been around for centuries, and is highly popular with clients, the medical world is still divided about its benefits.
Recently, however, I have become aware of an increasing number of GPs who fully understand that deep relaxation can be associated with certain oils - a fact, which can only be good for pregnant women.
How it works Aromatherapy involves essential oils being absorbed into the body through either the pores of the skin or by inhalation through the nose. It’s the molecules within the oils which are said to enter the nervous system through the bloodstream and this is what enables aromatherapy to influence emotional and physical well-being.
The oils are normally diluted in a carrier oil such as apricot kernel oil, sunflower oil or sweet almond oil. A normal dilution is ten drops of essential oil per 20ml of carrier oil.
During pregnancy - and for those with sensitive skin - the dilution is lower - with
only five drops of essential oil used per 20ml of carrier.
If you are planning an aromatherapy treatment during your pregnancy, the first thing that you must do is to ensure that you consult a qualified aromatherapist, who is experienced in using this therapy during pregnancy.
That’s because, while there are oils that are generally considered beneficial for pregnant women, there are some which should be completely avoided at this time - particularly during the first trimester.
Why? Well, there are some aromatherapy oils which are considered to have a stimulating effect on the uterus, while others are thought to have an effect on the hormones or too strong an impact on a particular organ of the body, so we steer clear of these.
How aromatherapy helps Most of my clients who come to see me during pregnancy are looking for relaxation and stress relief.
Aromatherapy can, however, be very beneficial for help with other pregnancy ‘niggles’, such as the nausea that comes from morning sickness, indigestion or heartburn. It can also be very helpful in dealing with oedema, which is the swelling of the hands and feet that can occur at this time.
In addition to these treatments, your aromatherapy practitioner can also create a personal blend of oils for you to use during your labour and delivery. These oils will, again, provide you with optimum levels of relaxation
If you’re ever in any doubt about using aromatherapy, seek advice from a professionally qualified practitioner and always let your midwife or GP know about any treatment that you’re planning to have.
Aromatherapy can be very beneficial for help with pregnancy ‘niggles’ such as the nausea that comes from morning sickness, indigestion or heartburn
Oils which are safe to use in pregnancy (second and third trimesters):
• Bergamot • Grapefruit • Lavender • Lemon • Patchouli • Rosewood • Sandalwood • Ylang • Tea tree
Among the oils which should be avoided in pregnancy: • Basil • Bitter almond • Clary sage • Coriander • Juniper berry • Parsley • Pennyroyal
For a complete list of oils which should be avoided, speak to your practitioner.
RoseAnna Gallop, Essentially You.
essentiallyyouni.co.uk
Modernmum 35
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