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Mama's Milk

Mama's Milk


There's no doubt that breastfeeding is the best choice for a newborn baby. However,  it is not always easy for new mother to provide for her newborn and problems such as lack of flow or engorged breasts can occur. Sometimes the baby is not strong enough to stimulate the flow of milk. Many times these problems can be solved, but it is very stressful for both mother and baby. La Leche League,  an organization that helps mothers with nursing difficulties, can be found in most areas today.

 Here are some suggestions that has historically been used when the supply of milk is insufficient:
  • According to Gary Young, mix geranium, fennel, and/or sage 50-50 with massage oil and massage over breast. Keep in mind that fennel should not be used longer than 10 days at a time. The oils have historically been applied above the breast on the lymph area, and  2-3 drops have historically been applied on the spine, about heart level. I suggest that you wait a while to let the oils absorb, or wash them off before you nurse. Give them time to be absorbed first though.
  • You may consider diffusing mood lifting oils such as bergamot, ylang ylang, rosewood, geranium, and rose as well.

 I wasn't able to breastfeed my oldest son, and there are times when we can't nurse and we have to accept it. I wish I would have known more about health back then so I at least  could have made my own formula.  Here is a recipe for homemade formula from the Weston Price Foundation if you cannot breastfeed.

 This post was about using essential oils, but there are also herbs that historically have been used to increase the breast milk. Alfalfa, blessed thistle, and marshmallow are some of them. What kind of remedies have you used to increase your milk supply?

 Source:
Essential Oils - Intergrative Medical Guide by Gary Young, ND

This information is for educational purposes only and  is not meant to prescribe. Essential oils are safe to use as long as contraindications have been researched prior to use. As always, consult with your health care practitioner if you are pregnant, breastfeeding, or suffer from any medical conditions. Some oils are contraindicated in certain conditions, so check out this essential oil safety page to make sure the oils are safe for you. 
Before you leave:

I recommend that you always perform a skin patch test when you try a new oil.


Check out my safety page to make sure you are aware of any contrindications before you use essential oils. Some oils are not suitable when suffering from certain conditions. Also, Read this Before You Start Using Essential oils. Some oils should not be applied prior to sun exposure so make sure you check this list before spending time in the sun.

Not sure how to apply the oils? Visit these pages to learn how to apply the oils:
If you're new to essential oils you might want to check out my Getting Started Guide. 

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Johanna is an aromatherapist and she is passionate about educating people about health, essential oils, real food, natural remedies, and nutrition so they make healthier choices in their lives. 
Follow Johanna on twitter and facebook for more health tips and information.








Green & Natural Mama Thursday @ I Thought I Knew Mama
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Things for Moms - Pamper Yourself or Make as Gifts

Things for Moms - Pamper Yourself or Make as Gifts

It's Mother's Day again so I thought I should put together a list of suitable things for moms. This is a handy list of things to make at home even if you don't celebrate Mother's Day. Pamper yourself and re-charge your batteries or make as gifts. Most of these are fairly easy to make and don't require tons of ingredients. We don't make a big deal about Mother's Day and I personally think everyday is Mother's Day. However, as a mom it is nice to get extra attention once in a while.



 Pamper yourself or make as gifts:  Luxurious  Flower Power Beauty Products








Quick and Easy Bath Salt my daughter made.









 Make luxurious perfumes at home:


Have a wonderful day!


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Johanna is an aromatherapist and she is passionate about educating people about health, essential oils, real food, natural remedies, and nutrition so they make healthier choices in their lives.  
Follow Johanna on twitter and facebook for more health tips and information.

 This post is linked to:
Simple Lives Thursday
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Essential Oils and Pregnancy - Preparing for Birth

Essential Oils and Pregnancy - Preparing for Birth




Aromatherapy has historically been very beneficial for a woman during pregnancy, and essential oils have been used to ease her discomforts, nurture her, and help reduce her stress. It can also giver her more control over the birth, and according to Battaglia, aromatherapy can make her labor quicker and easier, and reduce the need for drugs and other interventions.


How can aromatherapy be helpful in childbirth?

According to Battagla, some essential oils have traditionally been used to strengthen and deepen contractions, while they also have analgesic, pain relieving effect. He writes that vaporized essential oils may be used to create an anxiety free atmosphere. Lavender, grapefruit, bergamot, neroli, rose, and tangerine have proven to be the most useful.


Labor
Jasmine compresses or massages have historically been used in the sacral area when suffering from pain. Battaglia states that compresses of rose water have traditionally been used for general relief. 

In Battaglia's book, The Complete Guide to Aromatherapy, we learn about a study conducted by Caroline Blamey and Ethel Burns evaluated the effects of essential oils in a labor ward. They used the essential oils eucalyptus, frankincense, rose, lemon, peppermint, clary sage, mandarin, and lavender.

  The results were:
  • Lavender was the most popular oil. It was used for pain relief, to lighten mood and to reduce maternal anxiety.
  • Clary sage was the oil used the most to increase contractions. Once in the labor the women felt more anxious and lavender was the  preferred oil to relax them.
  • Peppermint was the oil mostly used for nausea and vomiting during the later stages of labor.
The study indicates an overall satisfaction by the midwives and the women in using aromatherapy during labor. 

 During the first stage of labor, the dilation of the cervix, which can take anywhere from 2 - 24 hours, Battaglia recommends to massage with the essential oils of jasmine, rose, neroli, or clary sage to help the mother relax between the contractions.


Battaglia put together a list of essential oils for the delivery room in his  book, 'The Complete Guide to Aromatherapy':

 Oils for the delivery room
Rose
  • uterine stimulant
  • natural antiseptic
  • slight analgesic
Neroli
  • facilitates easy breathing
  • calming
  • antiseptic
Lavender
  • circulatory stimulant
  • slight analgesic effect
  • calming
  • antiseptic, anti-inflammatory
  • promotes healing of wounds
  • headaches and fainting
Clary sage
  • uterine tonic
  • analgesic and antispasmodic
  • euphoric
Jasmine
  • euphoric
  • antidepressant
  • uterine tonic
Valeri Ann Worwood adds to the list:

 Geranium, according to Worwood:
  • circulation stimulation. One of the best circulatory oils according to Worwood, and if circulation is good, then breathing will be easier.
  • good for uterus and enometrium
  • contractive effect - pulls together dilated tissues, so excellent after birth.
  • good for the whole female reproductive system
  • antidepressant, known for its uplifting effects.

 Worwood also recommends to soften the perineum with a blend of 5 drops of rose Maroc to each teaspoon of almond oil one week before the due date. Rub a little bit of the blend along the perineum, according to Worwood it will encourage elasticity in the area and prevent tearing during childbirth


Make sure you talk to the staff at the place of delivery about your wish to use essential oils. Some hospitals in Europe provide essential oils upon request, but I am not sure if any hospitals in USA do. Don't forget to consult with your health care practitioner before you use essential oils when you are pregnant.

As always, this information is for educational purposes only, and is not meant to diagnose or prescribe.  If you are pregnant, breastfeeding, or suffer from a medical condition, consult with your health care practitioner prior to using essential oils.


Before you leave:

I recommend that you always perform a skin patch test when you try a new oil.


Check out my safety page to make sure you are aware of any contrindications before you use essential oils. Some oils are not suitable when suffering from certain conditions. Also, Read this Before You Start Using Essential oils. Some oils should not be applied prior to sun exposure so make sure you check this list before spending time in the sun.

Not sure how to apply the oils? Visit these pages to learn how to apply the oils:
If you're new to essential oils you might want to check out my Getting Started Guide. 

------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------

Johanna is an aromatherapist and she is passionate about educating people about health, essential oils, real food, natural remedies, and nutrition so they make healthier choices in their lives. 
Follow Johanna on twitter and facebook for more health tips and information.









Sources:
Valeri Ann Worwood, (1991). The Complete Book of Essential Oils & Aromatherapy. New World Library, San Rafael, CA
Salvatore Battaglia (1995). The Complete Guide to Aromatherapy. The Perfect Potion Pty Ltd

Photo credit:

This post is linked to Monday Mania hosted by The Healthy Home Economist and to WFMW. 
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Essential Oils and Pregnancy - Stretch Marks

Essential Oils and Pregnancy - Stretch Marks




Stretch marks are caused by rapid and excessive weight gain and are commonly associated with pregnancy. The truth is that anyone who experience rapid growth or weight gain can get stretch marks. Over time the reddish stripes turn white and they will be less noticeable. Unfortunately they are permanent, but there are things you can do to minimize the chance of them appearing in the first place.


Here are just some suggestions that according to several aromatherapy experts will prevent stretch marks from appearing in the first place. However, as always, what works for one may not work for someone else. 


Salvatore Battaglia in his book  "The Complete Guide to Aromatherapy", suggests that stretch marks can be prevented if a mix of base oils and essential oils are applied on places where stretch marks would normally appear. He recommends mixing  base oils like wheatgerm, apricot kernel, and avocado oil with the essential oils of lavender and tangerine. Rosewood and frankincense are other oils recommended by Battaglia.


Valeri Ann Worwood writes in her book, The Complete Book of Essential Oils and Aromatherapy, that she has treated many pregnant women and none of them had stretch marks. Worwood states that the base oils are just as important for the tummy rub as the essential oils. She recommends to use base oils like wheatgerm, borage seed, and carrot seeds. Lavender, tangerine, or Rose Bulgar oils are the essential oils she recommends to use with the base oil blend. Use the blend to massage on the typical areas where stretch marks appear, the lower and upper abdomen, buttocks, and thighs. 


Gary Young, says oils like lavender, frankincense, elemi, geranium and myrrh may be used for stretch marks.


Vitamin E and zinc may help prevent stretch marks, so increase foods high in zinc and Vitamin E. You can also add vitamin E to your massage oil. Virgin coconut oil is high in vitamin E and and has traditionally been used for stretch marks as well.


Other things you want to consider is to keep your body well hydrated by drinking lots of water. Eat food that is high in vitamin A, C, E. Aloe vera, jojoba, shea and cocoa butter have also been used.


These are just some suggestions. I'm curious, what has worked for you? 




If you are pregnant and plan to use essential oils I recommend that you read my post, Is Aromatherapy Safe in Aromatherapy? As always, you should check with your physician before you use essential oils if you are pregnant or suffer from any medical conditions.

Before you leave:

I recommend that you always perform a skin patch test when you try a new oil.


Check out my safety page to make sure you are aware of any contrindications before you use essential oils. Some oils are not suitable when suffering from certain conditions. Also, Read this Before You Start Using Essential oils. Some oils should not be applied prior to sun exposure so make sure you check this list before spending time in the sun.

Not sure how to apply the oils? Visit these pages to learn how to apply the oils:
If you're new to essential oils you might want to check out my Getting Started Guide. 

------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------

Johanna is an aromatherapist and she is passionate about educating people about health, essential oils, real food, natural remedies, and nutrition so they make healthier choices in their lives. 
Follow Johanna on twitter and facebook for more health tips and information.








This post is linked up to WFMW. 
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Essential Oils And Pregnancy - Morning Sickness

Essential Oils And Pregnancy - Morning Sickness


Roughly  50% of pregnant women experience nausea during the first three months of pregnancy. It is recommended  to eat small frequent meals and snacks. According to Steven Horne, the primary reason for morning sickness is because of toxicity in the liver or digestive tract. Low blood sugar can also contribute to morning sickness. 


Valerie Ann Worwood's recommendation for morning sickness is to add 4-5 drops of spearmint to a bowl of boiling water. Put the boil on the floor by the bed. According to her, the aroma molecules will keep the stomach calm and gently do their work while you are sleeping. A drop can also be added to the pillow. 


Battaglia suggests that 4-5 drops of spearmint and/or ginger be used as an inhalation to calm the stomach.


Cooksley suggests that lavender can be used to relieve nausea by inhalation. It can also be combined with oils like lemon and peppermint.

 Cooksley suggests:

For inhalation:
4 part lavender to
1 par of lemon or peppermint
Put a few drops on a tissue, in an aroma lamp, or in a diffuser. 
Lavender is also soothing to the nervous system while peppermint and lemon are refreshing.


Steven Horne suggests that  drinking a pregnancy tea made of equal parts of red raspberry leaf, alfalfa, and peppermint, eating a healthy diet, and take plenty of minerals are the best preventions for morning sickness. Steven also says that taking Red Raspberry blend and digestive enzymes with meals, and taking enough fiber and water so the bowels move, may also rid the morning sickness. 


Other things to consider:
  • Avoid fats, sugar, salt, caffeine and processed orange juice.
  • Avoid processed foods.
  • Consider taking a B-complex with additional B6 and magnesium to control morning sickness. Foods high in B6 and magnesium are sunflower seeds, walnuts, bananas, brown rice, chicken, wheat germ and brewer's yeast.
  • The herb ginger in capsule form or freshly grated.  According to some, excess ginger can cause uterine contractions. Some herbalist suggests to use ginger with caution during pregnancy, but Steven Horne thinks it is all right to use. To be on the safe side, do your own research.
  • For NSP members, according to Horne, LIV-J or Liver Balance can be taken to clean out the liver. Red Raspberry Blend and the digestive enzymes Proactazyme Plus can also be taken according to him.

    My post Is Aromatherapy Safe in Pregnancy? has information about what essential oils to use when pregnant. As always, this information is for educational purposes and is not meant to diagnose or  replace the advice of a physician. Use caution and  consult with your physiscian.


Before you leave:

I recommend that you always perform a skin patch test when you try a new oil.


Check out my safety page to make sure you are aware of any contrindications before you use essential oils. Some oils are not suitable when suffering from certain conditions. Also, Read this Before You Start Using Essential oils. Some oils should not be applied prior to sun exposure so make sure you check this list before spending time in the sun.

Not sure how to apply the oils? Visit these pages to learn how to apply the oils:
If you're new to essential oils you might want to check out my Getting Started Guide. 

------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------

Johanna is an aromatherapist and she is passionate about educating people about health, essential oils, real food, natural remedies, and nutrition so they make healthier choices in their lives. 
Follow Johanna on twitter and facebook for more health tips and information.

5:38 AM | Read more...
Is Aromatherapy Safe in Pregnancy?

Is Aromatherapy Safe in Pregnancy?




A question that often comes up is if aromatherapy is safe for pregnant women. Essential oils can provide many benefits for pregnancy. An aromatherapy treatment may reduce stress and ease discomfort  felt during pregnancy. Essential oils can  provide a positive and relaxing feeling for the expecting mother.

There are some things that needs to be taken into consideration though.
Essential oils should not be administered topically, including baths, orally, or vaginally before 24th week of pregnancy. If the oil is not contraindicated, it may be used in a diffuser.

Only a 2% dilution should be used when pregnant. Check out the dilution chart to make sure you know what is safe for you.

Any oil that is considered toxic is contraindicated to mother or fetus. All oils with high thujone, pulegone, menthol or apiol content should be avoided during pregnancy. Avoid oils that have hormone like actions.


Essential oils that may demonstrate hormone like actions are aniseed, basil, cypress, Roman Chamomile, fennel, geranium, nutmeg, and clary sage (Tisserand  recently questioned clary sage's hormonal activity) shall be avoided.

However, some of these oils are suggested for certain conditions by experts like Wormood, Battaglia and Cooksley. For example, Roman Chamomile and geranium shall be avoided in the first trimester but can be used later on in the pregnancy. This include using the oils in a diffuser. Clary Sage is an uterine tonic, and Battaglia lists it as one of the oils to use for the delivery room.

Cypress oil is also recommended by Worwood and Battaglia for certain conditions. I feel it is best to leave cypress alone, unless you are following a recipe or recommendation by someone who knows their oils.

You will come across different suggestions of what is suitable or not for pregnancy once you read more sources. I prefer to take a more conservative approach when I share advice. 

Here is some suggestions regarding what oils to use or not to use.  If the essential oil is not mentioned here, it is probably best to  avoid unless suggested by a professional.

My List of  Oils  to Use 
Tangerine, mandarin, grapefruit, geranium (avoid first trimester), Roman Chamomile (avoid first trimester), jasmine, lavender, lemon, neroli, orange, patchouli, sandalwood, bergamot, ylang ylang (According to Cooksley and Worwood).

Use With Caution
According to Cooksley caraway, cypress, juniper, lavender,  rose, rosemary (avoid first trimester) and peppermint ( avoid first trimester) can be used with caution.

Oils to Avoid
Cinnamon, basil, black pepper, bay leaf, anise, clove bud and leaf, ginger, oregano, Immortelle (Helichrysum), elecampane, citronella, fennel bitter, birch, Cedarwood Atlas, marjoram, lemon balm, hyssop, clary sage, myrrh, pennyroyal, sage, rue, parsley seed, camphor, bay leaf, garlic, pine, Rose Attar, wintergreen, thyme, tansy, sassafras, wormwood, mugwort, cypress, thuja, pennyroyal and nutmeg.

As always, you want to check out my safety page to make sure of the safety and contraindications. There are certain conditions where some oils shouldn't be used. Also, check with your physician to make sure aromatherapy is safe for you.

Before you leave:

I recommend that you always perform a skin patch test when you try a new oil.


Check out my safety page to make sure you are aware of any contrindications before you use essential oils. Some oils are not suitable when suffering from certain conditions. Also, Read this Before You Start Using Essential oils. Some oils should not be applied prior to sun exposure so make sure you check this list before spending time in the sun.

Not sure how to apply the oils? Visit these pages to learn how to apply the oils:
If you're new to essential oils you might want to check out my Getting Started Guide. 

------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------

Johanna is an aromatherapist and she is passionate about educating people about health, essential oils, real food, natural remedies, and nutrition so they make healthier choices in their lives. 
Follow Johanna on twitter and facebook for more health tips and information.








This post is linked up to:
  Eco-Kids Tuesday


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