Pregnancy is a wonderful time for every woman. All you want is a healthy baby, and you will do anything to achieve this. You want everything to be perfect for you and your baby, including clothes, medicines, food, etc. Many of our parents and grandparents keep giving suggestions about what to eat and what not to eat while you are pregnant. Eucalyptus oil during pregnancy is one of the active oil that can be used. Let us know more about this oil and how beneficial it is during pregnancy.
What Is Eucalyptus oil?
A fast-growing evergreen tree that is native to Australia is Eucalyptus. The leaves are steam-distilled to extract oil from the eucalyptus leaves which have many uses. It has several applications, such as products that help reduce the symptoms of cough, cold, and congestion. One of the primary sources of eucalyptus oil that is used globally comes from the Eucalyptus globulus.
Is It Safe To Use Eucalyptus Oil During Pregnancy?
Eucalyptus oil is safe for external use as consuming it orally may prove toxic. There are many ways to use this oil to reduce many effects such as cold sores, sinus problems, cold & congestion, etc. naturally during pregnancy with minimal side effects. Even though it is safe, it is always better to be cautious and consult a doctor before you start using anything new.
See More: Tea Tree Oil During Pregnancy
Benefits Of Eucalyptus Oil During Pregnancy:
1. Relief From Cold & Respiratory Problems:
Cold, and congestion are problems faced by many of us, but it is much more difficult for a woman who is pregnant as over-the-counter medications may not be the right choice. Eucalyptus oil gives you quick relief from cold and congestion. It is much more useful during winter as special care is necessary for a carrying mother. The strong aroma of this oil helps relieve chest congestion and also treats severe conditions like bronchitis. All you have to do is use it in a diffuser and inhale the eucalyptus oil day and night. Hot steam with this oil is also beneficial.
2. Heals Wounds:
The antiseptic qualities of eucalyptus oil make it a perfect and natural solution to treat minor cuts and wounds during pregnancy. The application of this oil doesn’t cause any adverse effects, and it helps the sores heal quickly. There are many creams and ointments available in the market that have eucalyptus oil in a diluted form. It reduces the inflammation of your skin.
3. Treats Asthma:
One of the medical conditions affecting millions of people around the world is asthma. Inflammation in the airways, leading to tightness in the chest, difficulty breathing, and cough is some of the symptoms of asthma. Massaging eucalyptus oil on the chest can be very beneficial for pregnant women and natural, healthy treatment. Another alternative is to add a few drops of this oil in hot water and inhale the fumes that result in the thinning of mucus from the airways which helps improve breathing and decrease discomfort.
4. Helps With Mental Exhaustion:
All the thoughts going around your mind regarding the pregnancy and the baby cause mental tiredness in pregnant women. It helps rejuvenate the mind of the mother and has a positive effect on the baby too. Staying positive is very important, especially during pregnancy; sometimes, it becomes difficult with a lot of thoughts going on in your mind about the well-being of the child. In such a situation, aromatherapy works like a treat. Using a diffuser or adding a few drops of this oil to your bath can be useful.
5. Reduces Muscle Pain:
Pregnancy has many effects on a woman’s body; increasing weight is one of them. As the pregnancy progresses, it has a direct impact on your joints and knees, resulting in pain and inflammation in these areas. Massaging your knees and joints with warm eucalyptus oil will make you feel light. It also helps in reducing sprained ligaments, stiff muscles, and aches in different parts of the body.
6. Dental Care:
Bleeding gums is another problem faced by pregnant women. Though there is no evidence to show pregnancy causes dental issues, if you already have problems, then there is a chance of aggravated during pregnancy. Aas the immune system becomes sluggish during these days; women face issues like bad breath and plaque. Eucalyptus oil proves beneficial in treating dental problems caused during pregnancy. You can choose products that have eucalyptus oil that help you relieve the pain caused by bleeding gums and other problems.
7. Reduces Intestinal Germs:
Intestinal germs cause infections that create disturbance in many pregnant women. Eucalyptus oil can be used in a diluted form to remove all the intestinal bacteria and proved to be a boon to women carrying a child.
8. Room Fresheners:
Air fresheners can be excellent and have a positive effect on the mother and the child. Eucalyptus oil creates an aura that is safe and vibrant in the form of an air freshener. It is a natural remedy that is readily available and can be used without any hesitance. So consider this oil as a room freshener, enjoy the aroma and get all the benefits of Eucalyptus oil.
9. Reduces Skin Issues:
It is always safe to use all-natural products instead of chemical products, which may cause adverse effects on a pregnant woman. Many women have skin breakouts, and patches these days. Eucalyptus oil has medicinal properties that have a positive impact on your skin. Mixing it with jojoba oil or almond oil help moisturize dry skin. Homemade sunscreen moisturizers can also be prepared in the comfort of your home. Eucalyptus oil has anti-bacterial, anti-fungal, antiseptic, and anti-inflammatory properties that help treat skin conditions.
10. Controls Cough:
Cough can be annoying and uncomfortable during pregnancy. It puts pressure on the bladder, increasing the number of visits to the bathroom. Loosening mucus is one of the positive effects of Eucalyptus oil that helps relieve you from coughing. Cough medicines available in the market have it as an ingredient. You can even prepare a rub with this oil to relieve yourself from coughing.
11. Builds Immunity:
One of the delicate and vital periods in a woman’s life is when she is pregnant. This is also the time when her immune system is sluggish and needs special care. Some studies prove eucalyptus oil has properties that help you boost your immunity protecting you from infections and ailments. A few drops in a diffuser will work wonders, especially during the change of seasons. A hand sanitiser can be prepared by mixing lavender, tea tree oil in equal amounts, and eucalyptus oil doubled.
12. Controls Sinus Problems:
Sinusitis can be complicated to manage during pregnancy, as taking your regular medication can be difficult. This is when you can resort to eucalyptus oil as it has anti-fungal, anti-microbial, and anti-viral properties that can be effective in reducing inflammation and helping in fighting blocked sinus problems. Use a handkerchief with a few drops of eucalyptus oil and keep inhaling. Warm compressions are another way to use this oil effectively.
13. Reduces Fever:
Fever is a way for our body, to give a signal that it has reached an exhaustive limit. Temperature is also an indication that your body is trying to fight infection, and it happens even during pregnancy. Eucalyptus oil can be a miraculous cure if you want to avoid medications hence the name fever-reducing oil. One way to do this is by mixing a few drops of this oil in lukewarm water and applying compressions on your hands, legs, and head. Another way is to use a combination of a few drops of eucalyptus oil and a spoonful of jojoba oil on your temples, the bottom of your feet, and your neck.
14. Controls Cold Sores:
Growing a baby is not an easy task; it comes with a lot of responsibilities and health concerns. Your body works overtime to provide all the nutrients to your body and the baby, and it drains your energy. Cold soreness is one of the issues that have pain and tingling sensation around these areas. You can prepare a solution with a few drops of eucalyptus oil and tea tree oil. Mix them with coconut oil and use the mixture in the affected areas to get instant relief.
See More: Essential Oils During Pregnancy
15. Gives You Nourishing Hair:
Hair loss is also a problem face by pregnant women that are caused by hormonal imbalances in your body. Using warm eucalyptus oil to massage your scalp, it helps rejuvenate all the natural oils and provides nourishment that makes your dry and dull hair glow. Hair follicles are stimulated with the ingredients present in this oil that boost hair growth quickly. Add a few drops of eucalyptus oil to your regular oil and massage your head and let it stay overnight. Wash your hair in the morning for the best results.
Side Effects Of Using Eucalyptus Oil While Pregnant:
It is safe to use eucalyptus oil during pregnancy. But by following some precautions, you can avoid minor side effects it may cause.
- The oil may cause allergies in some pregnant women as it is pungent and sharp.
- If you are allergic to this oil, it may cause itching or rashes.
- Eucalyptus oil works effectively in treating respiratory issues, but it may work oppositely if you are allergic.
- It may even cause diarrhoea, nausea, vomiting, and upset stomach.
Tips To Use Eucalyptus Oil During Pregnancy:
With all the benefits eucalyptus oil provides, you can use it by following a few precautions. Here are some tips.
- You can dilute eucalyptus oil by mixing it with your regular oil and using it to nourish your hair.
- It is also the best solution for skincare during pregnancy.
- Always better to buy a eucalyptus oil that is organic and doesn’t have any mixture of chemicals.
- It is better to perform a patch test to see whether you are allergic to eucalyptus oil.
See More: Clove Oil in Pregnancy
Pregnancy is a beautiful period, not only in a woman’s life but also for the family members. If you can make your experience even better with Eucalyptus oil during pregnancy, then why not use it? With the plethora of benefits and some side effects, you can carefully use this oil to make your pregnancy a pleasant experience. If you have any more doubts, let us know so that we can help you with the answers.
Q1. Does eucalyptus oil help you sleep?
Ans: As the pregnancy progresses, sleep will be hard to come by. But by using this oil in a diffuser, you can feel relaxed, providing you with a deep night’s sleep.
Q2. Is consuming eucalyptus oil dangerous?
Ans: Adults can take small doses such as 0.05 to 0.2 millilitres of eucalyptus oil internally. Pregnant ladies should consult a doctor before taking any type of essential oil.
Q3. Is it safe to inhale eucalyptus oil during pregnancy?
Ans.: Inhaling limited amounts of eucalyptus oil in the form of compressors, inhalers, etc. But always remember to use this oil externally and do not consume it orally, especially when you are pregnant as it may cause seizures.
Disclaimer: The information provided in this article is only suggestions, and it is in no way a replacement for medical advice. Especially when you are pregnant, it is always better to consult a doctor before you consume anything.
