Essential oils and pregnancy: what you need to know before using them

Pregnancy is a unique time, during which women often want to take care of themselves more naturally. Essential oils, renowned for their many benefits (soothing, purifying, invigorating, etc.), are generating a lot of interest among expectant mothers. But be careful: natural does not mean risk-free.

In this article, we explain the essentials (no pun intended!) about using essential oils during pregnancy, with some practical tips and specific recommendations for our basic deodorant.

Why caution is essential.

Some essential oils contain powerful active molecules that can cross the placental barrier and reach the baby. Some are neurotoxic, abortifacient, or hormone-like (mimicking hormones). This is why it is crucial to always consult your gynecologist or a midwife trained in aromatherapy before using any essential oils , even simply by diffusing them.

In general, here are some key safety principles:

✅ Completely avoid essential oils during the first trimester , a crucial period of embryonic development.

✅ Never apply pure essential oil to the skin without a carrier (vegetable oil, butter).

✅ Do not ingest essential oil except under strict medical supervision.

✅ Favor moderate, occasional use , and only if it is really necessary.

Which essential oils are not recommended during pregnancy?

Here are some examples of essential oils that are strictly prohibited during pregnancy and breastfeeding:

🚫 Clary sage and common sage (hormonal effect)

🚫 Thyme thymol (irritant, neurotoxic)

🚫 Cinnamon, cloves (skin-irritating, toxic)

🚫 Peppermint (neurotoxic risk to the fetus)

🚫 Camphorated rosemary

🚫 Atlas cedar, cypress, juniper (abortive)

Others can be used with caution only on the recommendation of a professional and always diluted.

Which oils can be considered, with medical advice?

Some gentler essential oils are sometimes permitted in late pregnancy (after the 4th month) in certain situations, for example:

🌸 True lavender (soothing, relaxing)

🍊 Bitter orange petitgrain (anti-stress, promotes sleep)

🍋 Lemon (nausea, diffusion only)

🌿 Roman chamomile (calming)

But again: no self-medication.

How can they be used safely?

If your healthcare professional has approved an oil for you, here are some tips:

👉 Atmospheric diffusion : 5 to 10 minutes maximum in a ventilated room, never in the direct presence of the baby.

👉 Massage : always dilute to a maximum of 1-2% (e.g., 1 drop of essential oil in a tablespoon of neutral vegetable oil).

👉 Bath : never pour the oil directly into the water. Mix it beforehand with a dispersant or milk.

And is basic deodorant suitable during pregnancy?

The basic deodorant is formulated with 100% natural ingredients and contains a fragrance composed of essential oils in very small proportions. Our pregnant customers often ask us if they can continue to use it.

👉 What we recommend :

• For the majority of pregnancies without particular risk, its use remains possible, because the dose of essential oils is minimal (0.7%) and the product is applied locally.

• If in doubt, if you have a high-risk pregnancy or a known allergy , always seek advice from your gynecologist.

• If you wish to be more cautious, you can suspend its use for the first quarter.

To date, we have not received any feedback indicating intolerance during pregnancy, but every body is unique.

In summary

🌿 Essential oils require vigilance and medical supervision during pregnancy.

✅ Always talk to your doctor before using this product .

🌸 If you wish to continue using natural cosmetics like our basic deodorant, feel free to consult the detailed ingredient list.

If you have any questions about the compatibility of our products with your pregnancy, we are here to help.