Safe Essential Oils for Breastfeeding to support milk supply
Essential oils can be a wonderful natural way to support your body and mood while breastfeeding. From increasing milk production, to sore nipples, and mammary gland infections, feeling sad and moody, and needing to sleep, there are many ways essential oils can help.
This article discusses the safe essential oils you can use to help support your body during this time as well as a few essentials oils to avoid.
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Each woman and each pregnancy, delivery, and postpartum experience is different. Using Essential oils can help make the journey into motherhood a blissful experience.
Different blends help women in various ways. Use different oils and different methods to find the right one that works for best for your body and for YOU.
Disclaimer: These statements have not been evaluated by the Food and Drug Administration. This information is not  information is not medical advice and not intended to diagnose, treat, cure, or prevent disease. If you have a medical condition, please consult your doctor before using essential oils.
I use affiliate links in this article. If you click a link and make a purchase, I may earn a commission.
Resources and Information
One of the best resources I’ve found for reputable information on essential oils throughout and after pregnancy, is this book written by Stephani Fritz, an RN and midwife.
I definitely recommend this book for anyone thinking of becoming pregnant, trying to get pregnant, currently pregnant, or postpartum. She gives specific essential oil recommendations for each stage of pregnancy.
- Amazon Kindle Edition
You may also be interested in my related article on Safe Essential Oils for Pregnancy
Best Essential Oils That are Safe for New Moms
New moms can benefit from essential oils that promote relaxation and help with postpartum symptoms. By using pure essential oils (I use doTERRA), new moms can safely experience the benefits of aromatherapy.
Diffusing oils like citrus oils, or ylang-ylang can create a soothing environment, providing relief from nausea and stress. This can be especially helpful for moms experiencing postpartum feelings of sadness or feeling down due to hormone fluctuation.
Lavender
For new moms, lavender essential oil offers a calming and soothing effect, promoting relaxation.
Its renowned calming qualities make it a good idea for stress relief and creating a peaceful atmosphere. The use of lavender oil is valued for providing relaxation benefits, especially during the postpartum period.
To alleviate postpartum depression, pure essential oils like lavender can be beneficial through topical application or diffusion.
Its use is generally considered safe, but consulting a midwife or healthcare professional is always a good idea.
Bergamot
The citrusy aroma of bergamot essential oil has the power to uplift and energize new moms, offering a refreshing ambiance. With its invigorating properties, bergamot oil can provide potential benefits for breastfeeding moms, creating an uplifting atmosphere that boosts energy and mood.
The use of bergamot essential oil, known for its energizing fragrance, can be a good idea for new moms seeking natural ways to elevate their well-being during the postpartum period.
Wild Orange
The bright and energizing aroma of sweet orange essential oil can uplift and brighten the mood of new moms, creating a positive ambiance.
Its uplifting scent creates a cheerful atmosphere and is known for its refreshing qualities, benefitting new moms.
Using sweet orange oil is a good idea for postpartum depression and can be applied topically with a carrier oil like jojoba oil for stretch marks.
The use of pure essential oils like Wild Orange orange in a diffuser can also have a positive impact on the atmosphere.
Fennel
Fennel essential oil may be beneficial to breastfeeding moms due to its potential to stimulate milk production and increase milk flow.
Geranium
Geranium oil can help with breast soreness and can help increase milk production.
How to Use Essential Oils Safely during Breastfeeding
When using essential oils during breastfeeding, it’s crucial to prioritize safety. Always use pure essential oils and consider a carrier oil like jojoba oil for topical application.
It’s always smart to try a small patch test on your skin to be sure you don’t get any allergic reactions or adverse reactions from the oils.
Consult a midwife or healthcare professional for drug administration guidelines, especially in the second trimester.
Avoid applying oils directly to the breast area and ensure usage in well-ventilated spaces.
Using a diffuser can be a good idea to alleviate nausea and postpartum feelings of sadness or feeling down. Some safe options include lemon oil, cypress, and marjoram.
Avoid ylang ylang oil and clary sage, especially around young children, and seek guidance on using oils to prevent stretch marks.
Following FDA recommendations is essential for the well-being of both mom and baby.
Dilution and carrier oils
Proper dilution of essential oils is crucial for safe use and ensuring a gentle effect on the skin. It’s always a good idea to use a carrier oil when topically applying pure essential oils to reduce the risk of skin irritation.
Carrier oils such as jojoba oil, coconut oil, and olive oil are excellent choices for dilution.
The use of carrier oils not only ensures safe administration but also maximizes the benefits of essential oils without causing any harm.
Diffusion and aromatherapy
Creating a soothing atmosphere through essential oil diffusion offers a natural way to unwind and relax.
Aromatherapy with essential oils is known to alleviate feelings of stress and anxiety, promoting a sense of calm and well-being.
Citrus oils, when diffused, can elevate the mood and infuse the environment with positivity – perfect for anyone experiencing sad or negative postpartum feelings.
Additionally, the aromatherapeutic use of lavender oil encourages restful sleep, contributing to overall relaxation.
Lastly, the diffusion of essential oils effectively eliminates unwanted odors, enhancing the ambiance.
Benefit and Ways to Use Essential Oils for Breastfeeding Moms
Relaxation and Stress Relief: Essential oils like lavender and bergamot can help breastfeeding moms relax and reduce stress. Lactation Support: Certain pure essential oils, such as clary sage and rosemary, may aid in lactation.
Aromatherapy with ylang-ylang oil, marjoram, or citrus oils may be a good idea for moms struggling with sad feelings experienced postpartum.
Nausea Relief: Lemon oil or ginger oil can help alleviate nausea during the second trimester.
Topical Application for Stretch Marks: Jojoba oil, when applied topically, may help reduce stretch marks. These beneficial effects make the use of essential oils for breastfeeding moms a good news.
Relief from inflammation of the mammary glands with essential oils
If you’re experiencing inflammation of the mammary glands, the good news is that certain essential oils are believed to alleviate its symptoms.
Here are some essential oils that can be used for mastitis:
- Lavender oil
- Tea tree oil
- Clove
- Rosemary
Apply any of the oils above, undiluted on breast and on lymph nodes under your armpit.
Additionally, a warm bath with essential oils could be a good idea for finding comfort during this period.
Please note that essential oils should be used with caution and it’s always recommended to consult with a healthcare professional before using them for any specific condition.
Essential Oils to Increase Your Breast milk supply
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Essential Oils can be a natural method to help increase your breastmilk supply, which is a common struggle for many breastfeeding mothers.
Aromatherapy has long been used as a means to support lactation, with essential oils like fennel and basil being popular choices for promoting breast milk production.
Add 1 – 2 drops of each oil to your moisturizer or a lotion and massage into breasts to help support a healthy milk supply.
If you prefer, you can make a roller by adding 2 drops of each to a 10ml roller bottle, then filling it with jojoba oil. Roll around breasts after feeding or pumping.
Relaxation and stress relief with essential oils
Indulging in aromatherapy with essential oils may significantly encourage relaxation and alleviate stress.
Stress can be high after having a baby especially if you’ve had a c-section. This randomized controlled trial shows the effects of using Rose essential oil and Lavender essential oil to alleviate stress, anxious feelings and severity of pain following a c-section.
Using a diffuser to disperse essential oils can establish a soothing and tranquil atmosphere, offering a sense of calm. Here are some of my favorite calming diffuser blends which can be used to help you grab some precious sleep.
Notably, essential oils such as lavender and chamomile are renowned for their relaxation properties, making them excellent choices for unwinding.
Additionally, enjoying a warm bath infused with essential oils can effectively help alleviate stress and tension, providing a rejuvenating experience.
You can also use rollerballs applied to pulse points as a way to help lower stress levels. Here are 5 of my favorite calming roller recipes.
Overall, aromatherapy using essential oils presents a wonderful opportunity to unwind and relax, promoting a sense of tranquility and well-being.
Relief from sore nipples with essential oils
According to this study at the national library of medicine, sore nipples are the leading cause of ending breastfeeding.
What essential oils help with relief from sore nipples while breastfeeding and how to use them?
The same study at the national library of medicine compares using Lanolin, peppermint and Dexpanthenol creams for the treatment of traumatic nipples, and shows similar results from all three.
Lavender and chamomile essential oils can help with relief from sore nipples while breastfeeding. Dilute a few drops of either oil in a carrier oil, such as coconut or olive oil, and gently apply the mixture to your nipples after breastfeeding.
Risks Associated with Essential Oils during Breastfeeding
It’s important to be aware of potential risks associated with essential oils during breastfeeding.
Some oils may have a negative impact on lactation or pose risks to the baby’s health. Understanding which essential oils to avoid and being cautious about their use can help prevent any adverse effects.
It’s also essential to consult a healthcare professional, such as a midwife or lactation consultant, before using any essential oils during this period. Ensuring safety and well-being for both mother and baby is paramount when incorporating essential oils into postpartum care.
Essential Oils to Avoid While Breastfeeding
During breastfeeding, it’s important to be cautious of essential oils like sage, parsley, and fennel. Additionally, peppermint and eucalyptus should be used with care.
The essential oil that causes the most trouble for many women is Peppermint. Peppermint can dry up your milk supply – which can be a good thing when you are ready for that. But if you are still actively breast feeding, it’s recommended to avoid Peppermint oil.
Avoid essential oils with high phenol and ketone levels, and use citrus oils like grapefruit and lemon sparingly.
Breastfeeding mothers should be aware of the potential harm these oils can cause. It’s crucial for new moms to prioritize safety when using essential oils while nursing.
Some potentially harmful essential oils include clary sage, rosemary, and jasmine. These oils can have adverse effects on both the mother and the baby.
Additionally, drug administration is a crucial factor to consider, as certain oils might interfere with medications.
It’s always a good idea to consult with a midwife or healthcare professional before using any essential oils during breastfeeding. This ensures the safety and well-being of both the mother and the baby.
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Essential Oils and Baby’s Health
Some oils can be harmful to babies and should be avoided during breastfeeding.
Peppermint and sage oils may reduce milk production in nursing mothers, while lavender and chamomile oils can promote relaxation for both mother and baby.
Consulting with a healthcare professional before using any essential oils while breastfeeding is crucial. Safer options like carrier oils or natural remedies could be considered.
Understanding the potential impact of essential oils on a baby’s health is crucial for new moms. Caution is essential when using essential oils around young children.
It’s always a good idea to consult with a healthcare professional before using any pure essential oils in topical applications near babies.
Research the potential effects of essential oils on a baby’s health and consider the advice of a midwife or healthcare provider.
Proceed with care when using essential oils to ensure the well-being of your little one.
Conclusion of Essential Oils for Breastfeeding
In conclusion, essential oils can be a helpful tool for breastfeeding moms, but it’s important to use them safely and with caution. Lavender, bergamot, and orange are some of the essential oils that are generally considered safe for use during breastfeeding. However, it’s crucial to follow guidelines for dilution and use carrier oils, especially when applying topically.
Diffusing essential oils can also provide relaxation and stress relief for both mom and baby.
It’s important to be aware of the potential risks associated with certain essential oils such as Peppermint, and avoid using them while breastfeeding. Always consult with a healthcare professional before using any essential oils during this time.
If you’re interested in exploring the benefits of essential oils for lactation support, make sure to purchase them from reputable sources.
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Dawn Goehring
Dawn Goehring is the founder of Desert Naturals where she writes educational articles on essential oils, DIY’s on natural beauty products, homemade cleaners, and provides related essential oil accessories like planners, trackers, tshirts, and custom designed essential oil storage. She has been featured in articles on Porch.com, Redfin.com, MommyOnPurpose and more.
Dawn has earned an aromatherapist degree and has earned a doTERRA essential oil specialist certification which is a fancy way of saying she has learned a lot about the chemistry of essential oils and how they work in the body.