Is eucalyptus oil safe for use when pregnant? While there aren't a lot of studies that specifically follow the use of essential oils — and especially eucalyptus — in pregnant people, we do know that when used with the proper precautions, eucalyptus is considered relatively safe during pregnancy.
Essential oils to avoid during pregnancy
These include: Fennel. Clary sage. Sage.
Eucalyptus oil can be inhaled through your nose and may provide some cold symptom relief. It's also found in many topical decongestants. However, because even small doses of the oil can be toxic, you should avoid consuming it ( 9 ).
You shouldn't use essential oils in early pregnancy because they could potentially cause uterine contractions or adversely affect your baby in their early developmental stages, explains Jill Edwards, N.D., an Oregon-based doctor of naturopathic medicine who specializes in prenatal care.
Expectorants like Mucinex, cough suppressants like Robitussin, vapor rubs like Vicks VapoRub, and cough drops are all considered safe during pregnancy.
There is a body of evidence relating maternal exposure to oil pollutants with increased risk of miscarriage, intrauterine growth restriction, low birth weight, birth defects, gestational diabetes mellitus, maternal depression, motor and cognitive delays in children [7] [10] [11] [12].
[3] The toxic symptoms are rapid in onset, which include a burning sensation in the mouth and throat, abdominal pain, and spontaneous vomiting.
While Eucalyptus globulus is safe for adults, it should not be used on children under the age of 2. Contact your pediatrician before using eucalyptus to ease respiratory symptoms.
For direct inhalation, apply between one to six drops (0.05ml – 0.3ml) of undiluted essential oil to a handkerchief/tissue and inhale occasionally. You can do so up to three times per day.
Know which essential oils are safe to use
“Some essential oils that can be safely used during pregnancy are lavender, chamomile, and ylang ylang,” says Dr. Milosavljevic. “These are calming or down-regulating oils that can have a relaxing effect on the body.”
Peppermint. Some women have had success managing headaches in pregnancy with peppermint oil. Peppermint oil also can be helpful for nausea, nasal congestion and muscle aches. Peppermint oil inhalation has even been found to be helpful for postpartum women who have difficulty emptying their bladder.
Steam Inhalation:
Perfect for the treatment of blocked sinuses, congested lungs, a dry cough or an irritated throat, add 2 drops of eucalyptus essential oil to a bowl of hot water. Place your face over the bowl and throw a towel over your head to trap the steam.
Steam inhalation: By far the quickest way to loosen phlegm and relieve congestion is by inhaling. Add 10-15 drops of eucalyptus oil to a large bowl of hot water, throw a towel over your head, and breathe in the powerful aroma for about 10 minutes.
Mix 2-3 drops of eucalyptus oil with one teaspoon of a carrier oil (like jojoba or sweet almond oil), apply to a cotton ball and lightly dab onto the affected area two to three times daily. Soothe sore throats and earaches: To soothe a sore throat, rub 2-3 drops of eucalyptus oil onto your chest and throat.
Evaporative humidifiers should NEVER be used with essential oils. Any foreign materials added to the water, such as essential oils, will be trapped by the wicking filter. This will cause the filter to break down and possibly fail. So, no, you can not use essential oils in your evaporative humidifier.
Eucalyptus oil not only can help with pain post-op, but it also may help keep you calm before surgery, too. Researchers measured the effect on anxiety of breathing in essential oils in people about to have surgery. Before their operations, they smelled different oils for 5 minutes.
A strong, aromatic blend of essential oils including eucalyptus, rosemary and menthol. Suitable for all ages (from newborn onwards).
Eucalyptus inhalation is recommended for colds, flu and sniffles. Add 1 to 2 drops of eucalyptus oil to a bowl and pour over 1 litre of boiling water. Cover your head with a hand towel and inhale the steam for approx. 5 minutes.
Children and young children should only use Eucalyptus Radiata. Whilst Eucalyptus Globulus (Blue Gum Eucalyptus) is perfectly safe for adults, it should never be used on children under the age of 2 years.
Between 3 to 5 drops of an essential oil are recommended to use in a diffuser, if the diffuser's size is 100 ml. So 3 drops is a standard amount that can be used as a trial, if you are using an aroma diffuser for the first time.
The smell of things like alcohol, cigarettes and coffee can become repulsive – all things that can be harmful during pregnancy!
Why should hot baths during pregnancy be avoided? Hot baths during pregnancy are best avoided because of the risk of overheating and the increased risk of dizziness and fainting. A significant rise in your core body temperature, particularly during the first 12 weeks, might interfere with your baby's development.
It's highly unlikely that painting or being around paint fumes while you're pregnant will harm your unborn baby, as the risk from most modern household paints is very low.
Eucalyptus oil helps loosen phlegm, so many people breathe in eucalyptus steam to help treat bronchitis, coughs, and the flu.