We have picked 8 of the best for labour and new parenthood. Remember that these are powerful and concentrated substances and should only be used as directed - if in doubt obtain advice from a qualified Aromatherapist, or use products that have been specially blended for use at this time, such as the Natalia range by Vital Touch. Always dilute oils as directed - only a little is needed for them to be effective and no extra benefit is gained from increasing their concentration in a blend. Essential oils should never be used neat on the skin, unless under expert guidance. You should always buy your essential oils from a reputable supplier (such as Vital Touch Essentials range www.vitaltouch.com ) who can vouch for the purity and quality of their oils.
LAVENDER Lavandula angustifolia
Lavender essential oil can aid deep relaxation and also has analgesic properties. You can use it in a massage blend, in a bath or inhale from a tissue.
A study at Ipswich Hospital showed that a deep warm Lavender bath may be used to help speed up progress towards and through transition and may also reduce the need for any additional pain relief. This is particularly effective if used when labour is well established (4 cm dilation and regular strong contractions) Add 5 drops of Lavender (mixed in an eggcupful of milk) to the bathwater and swish really well before you step in. Allow the warm water to surround and comfort you through each contraction. Your partner can also use a jug or bowl to pour the bathwater over your abdomen with each contraction, which can be very soothing.
NB. Use with professional guidance if your blood pressure is very low.
ROMAN CHAMOMILE Anthemis nobilis
This is a gentle oil, and very useful where any calming and soothing is required, whether physical or emotional. Its analgesic and anti-inflammatory properties could also be useful in a labour massage blend.
Try:
20 mls of carrier oil
4 drops Lavender
2 drops Roman Chamomile
1 drop Frankincense
FRANKINCENSE Boswellia carterii
This oil can help to induce a state of concentration, and helps to deepen and calm breathing - ideal for labour. You can use it in a vaporiser or as part of a massage blend.
JASMINE Jasminum officinalis
An exotic oil, useful for supporting uterine contractions, as well as being comforting and soothing. Useful also for post natal depression. Use in a labour massage blend.
Try:
20 mls of carrier oil
3 drops Clary sage
2 drops Jasmine
1 drop Frankincense
CLARY SAGE Salvia sclarea
A euphoric oil - perfect to help keep a labouring woman focusing inwardly and cutting out outside interference. Also very supportive of uterine contractions and analgaesic. Use in a bath (5 drops mixed in eggcupful of milk) or a labour massage blend.
PEPPERMINT Mentha piperita
Peppermint oil is cooling and invigorating. We would not recommend its use on the skin without professional guidance, but have included it here for inhalation only as it is so useful for nausea, which is quite common in labour. Try 1 drop on a tissue and inhale deeply a few times.
TEA TREE Melaleuca alternifolia
Included in this set for its healing and antiseptic properties for after the birth (5 drops diluted in an eggcupful of milk and swished in the bath). Tea Tree can also be useful in labour for its strong, refreshing aroma. Vaporise or inhale.
SWEET ORANGE Citrus sinensis
Sweet Orange has a bright and citrus aroma, which is energising and optimistic. Use as part of a massage or vaporising blend to keep you feeling positive. Bergamot and Grapefruit essential oils are also very uplifting.
Click on the links below to read all about Vital Touch essentials for:
Pregnancy
Labour
New parenthood
