Essential facts about oils

As long as certain oils are avoided, aromatherapy techniques and oils can be used safely during pregnancy.

According to Ellespa, which specialises in pregnancy massage, oils to be avoided (because they are either toxic or may involve some risk of miscarriage) are aniseed, arnica, basil, bay, birch, camphor, clary sage, comfey, cedarwood, cypress, fennel, hyssop, jasmine, juniper, marjoram, melissa, mugwort, myrrh, nutmeg, oreganum, pennyroyal, peppermint, rosemary, sage, savoury, St John's Wort, tansy, thyme, wintergreen and wormwood.

Oils to avoid during the first trimester include chamomile, geranium, lavender and rose, and these should be used cautiously in the remaining months. Use small amounts that are well diluted (no more than 2 per cent for massage, and three to four drops added to a carrier oil for baths). If there is a history of miscarriage, avoid using altogether .

All essential oils should be used in half quantity during pregnancy, and extra care should be taken in handling them. Ensure that the oils you are using are pure essential oils, because adulterated blends or synthetic oils could have unpredictable results.