In a study of 585 women in labor, 68% found essential oils to be effective in decreasing pain and duration of labor, and increasing a sense of wellbeing. Today I am going to share with you the best essential oils for flavor and delivery.
To benefit from essential oils during labor, the oils can be used in two ways. Use the essential oils for labor aromatically by breathing in the aroma directly, or through a diffuser. To use the oils topically, follow safe dilution guidelines and then apply topically to your skin. Diffusing essential oils is the easiest, distraction free way to use aromatherapy during labor, and effective because the constituents are easily and quickly observed through the olfactory system. Another way to use essential oils aromatically, add a drop of essential oil on a cotton ball or cotton pad that can be inhaled as needed and then easily disposed of.
Clary Sage: Women who were given Clary Sage through inhalation experienced a significant reduction in pain and duration of labor, even more so than the women who were given Jasmine through inhalation. Clary sage is my very favorite essential oil for promoting strong, regular contractions when a labor is a little spotty and maybe taking a while to establish.
Lavender: Lavender has analgesic properties that help to soothe pregnancy pangs. The gentle aroma is calming to the sense. It is especially good during a hard labor when the mother is having a difficult time resting in between strong contractions. Diffusing Lavender will help everyone involved in the labor and delivery process.
Orange: Orange is a particularly good choice for those middle in the night deliveries. It is high in limonene, and is uplifting, which also aids in a more enjoying labor.
Geranium: Geranium encourages relaxation, which is always welcome during the stress of labor. Inhale the aroma from the bottle, or use an aromatherapy inhaler.
Jasmine: Jasmine essential oil is one of my favorite for use during labor. It facilitates birth, acts as a mood stabilizer, and pain reducer. In the study, those who got lower back massages with jasmine oil during labor reported less pain and back pressure. The researchers found that reducing pain made labor easier and faster, which is better for both you and baby.
Labor Essential Oil Blend has all of my favorite essential oils for labor and delivery in one blend.
A Word to the Wise:
(1) Do not use labor essential oils before full term, as some of these oils can cause contractions, and therefore are not safe before full term.
(2) Always check with your doctor or aromatherapist concerning your own personal needs.
(3) We do not recommend the use of oils in a birthing tub.
