Breastfeeding is a beautiful and rewarding journey, but it can also come with its challenges. If you're a breastfeeding mom exploring essential oils, you might wonder what's safe to use and how to maximize their benefits without being anxious over your baby's well-being. Oils are a huge part of this season of life for us, so here are all our best tips and tricks for using oils while breastfeeding!
ESSENTIAL OILS AND BREASTFEEDING AT A GLANCE
You CAN use essential oils safely while breastfeeding
Many common struggles of breastfeeding can be managed using essential oils.
There are some essential oils that are generally avoided while breastfeeding.
There are some wonderful oils you can use to support physical and emotional health during this time.
When it comes to essential oil safety during pregnancy, each person will have slightly different opinions. In general, we suggest diffusing around your new little one (in an open, ventilated room!), diluting oils and starting with gentle oils like Lavender, Gentle Baby, and Frankincense.
OILS SOME WOMEN AVOID OR LIMIT
Some essential oils should be used sparingly or avoided while breastfeeding due to their potential effects on milk supply. Everyone is different when it comes to these oils, but some to consider would be:
Peppermint: When ingested, Peppermint can potentially reduce milk supply–espeically when used in large amounts. Diffusing and even topical application for headaches, tension, etc. is safe, but do what works for you!
Sage and Jasmine: These oils may also impact milk production, though their effect is much less than peppermint. Diffusing and diluted topical applications are usually fine, but use at your own discretion.
Wintergreen: This oil contains methyl salicylate (think aspirin!), which should be avoided due to potential risks associated with aspirin. Diffusing is fine!
Clary Sage: Clary sage is a phytoestrogen, and is typically avoided (unless you're weaning), as it can influence hormones.
POSTPARTUM FAVORITES
The postpartum period is a time of healing and bonding–it is often a rollercoaster both physically and emotionally! This is a time when we absolutely reach for our Young Living oils and products to support your recovery and connection with your baby:
Fennel: This oil is known to support milk supply. Dilute and apply topically near the breasts (avoiding the nipple area) or diffuse for added benefit. You can also take Fennel Vitality drops in water or make your own fennel capsules with olive oil and empty capsules!
Lavender and Gentle Baby Blend: These oils are perfect for calming your mind and creating a soothing atmosphere. Apply a drop to your wrists or diffuse to relax while connecting with your baby.
Helichrysum and Frankincense: Both of these healing oils are fantastic for skin and recovery. Use these oils diluted on areas needing extra care after childbirth.
Joy Essential Oil Blend: This uplifting blend is a tried and true fan favorite to help balance emotions during postpartum.
Progessence Plus Serum: This progesterone-supporting serum is another fan favorite that many moms find helpful for emotional and hormonal balance during this period–and well beyond!
COMFORT DURING NURSING
Breastfeeding can sometimes lead to discomfort, especially in the early days as you are figuring it all out. Young Living has products designed to make nursing a more pleasant experience, so do not hesitate to fill your postpartum care kit!
Rose Ointment: This is a household staple for ANY and all skin needs. Apply after nursing sessions to soothe sore, chapped nipples. Always wipe the area clean before your next feeding. Use on any healing incisions or other areas that need some support. It makes a great carrier ointment for Frankincense and Helichrysum!
Claraderm Spray: This powerhouse spray helps with overall skin care and soothing sensitive areas. We actually use it before child birth to help the perineum prepare for birth. Continue using it after childbirth to soothe and heal!
SUPPLEMENTS & OILS FOR MOM
Nursing requires a LOT of energy from the mom's body, so fueling with nutrient-dense foods, lots of water (with minerals!), good supplements, and as much tender care as possible is a must when breastfeeding.
We know it's not always easy to make time for yourself, so grab some of these favorites to make your daily routine a bit easier.
Fatigue and Energy:
Citrus Oils (like Lemon, Lime & Orange): These uplifting scents can help boost your mood and energy levels. Diffusing them or adding a few drops to your bath can be refreshing.
Bergamot: Known for its calming yet uplifting properties, Bergamot can help fight anxiety and fatigue while promoting relaxation.
Aches and Pains:
Lavender, Cypress: This versatile oil is excellent for relaxation and can help relieve muscle tension. Try applying it to tense or tired areas with OrthoEase Massage oil or Relaxation Massage oil! Add Cypress essential oil for leg cramps and restlessness.
Frankincense: Known for its anti-inflammatory properties, Frankincense can help with joint discomfort and promote overall relaxation. Add it to bath salts or use in OrthoEase or Relaxation Massage Oil.
Supplements for nourishing Mom
Green Omega 3s: Omega-3s are known for their benefits when it comes to emotional health and cognitive function, and they are incredibly important for both mom and baby as the baby develops.
Super B: A blend of B vitamins that can help support energy levels, brain function, and overall wellness, Super B provides the body with the tools it needs for emotional balance, energy, a healthy thyroid, and mental clarity. B vitamins are water soluble, so they need to be replenished every day. Super B also contains folate, a necessary nutrient for developing babies.
Mineral Essence: This supplement provides essential minerals that can help support overall health while nursing and beyond. Minerals are crucial for many bodily functions, and this can help fill any nutritional gaps.
NingXia Red: This antioxidant-rich drink can support overall wellness and energy levels. Packed with vitamins and nutrients, it's a great addition to your daily routine for both mom and baby. It also reduces stress and promotes healthy sleep!
Life 9: This probiotic supplement supports digestive health. Maintaining gut health is important during pregnancy, and this can help keep everything balanced.
Grab all my breastfeeding and post-partum faves here:
Note: while we are here with suggestions for help and support, we are not here to diagnose or treat and suggest finding a medical provider you love and trust.
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