Aromatherapy is popularly used during labour, and can be used for a variety of reasons. You may be wondering which essential oils to use in labour.
Essential oils can be used during labour as an inhalation or as a massage or compress.
Studies have confirmed the positive effect of aromatherapy in reducing labor pain and anxiety. (https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/32874088/)
This table (from “Birth Kit Essentials” by Stephanie Pearson) helps answer the question of which essential oils to use in labour, and how to use them:
| Complaint | Essential Oils | Applications |
| Back labour pain | Black Pepper, Clary Sage, Lavender, Marjoram, Peppermint, White Fir | Hot compress or massage to lower back |
| Delivering the placenta | Lavender, Ginger | Massage gently to the abdomen or use compress |
| Fatigue | Citrus Oils, Frankincense, Peppermint | Inhale or apply in massage or foot bath |
| Ineffective or slow labour | Clary Sage, Jasmine, Lavender (with clary), Rose | Apply in massage, bath or foot bath |
| Stress/weariness | Geranium, Grapefruit, Lavender, Orange, and Ylang Ylang | Diffuse, apply as massage, or add to a relaxing and energising labour bath |
| Labour pain | Black pepper, Clary Sage, Geranium, Frankincense, Lavender, Marjoram, Peppermint, Roman Chamomile, White Fir | Apply via massage or hot compress, or inhale between contractions |
| Premium blend for pushing | Frankincense, Helichrysum, and lavender blend | Apply topically to perineum |
| Placenta separation | Basil, Clary Sage, Lavender | Apply to abdomen |
| Labour Tension | Lavender, Orange, Roman Chamomile, Sandalwood, Ylang Ylang | Massage into lower back and thighs |
| Room cleanse | Grapefruit, Frankincense, Lemon, Orange | Diffuse in birth room |
| Transition phase | Peppermint, Frankincense | Inhale or apply as neck massage |
Please note that Black pepper, marjoram and peppermint need to be diluted heavily. Clary Sage and rose must be avoided until term. Direct sun exposure needs to be avoided for 12 hours after using citrus oils, grapefruit, orange and lemon.
Receive the mother’s consent before using essential oils for her pregnancy, delivery, postpartum or infant’s care. Please refer to your aromatherapist first
Use a carrier oil like coconut oil for topical usage.