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What are the best essential oils for postpartum?

There are some great oils that will provide immediate and effective relief from some of the common ailments that affect new mums.

For example:

• Citrus oils for mental wellbeing;
• Lavender and Chamomile to promote a good night’s sleep;
• Fennel and Basil to increase milk supply;
• Tea Tree to help relieve haemorrhoids;
• Etc.

Read this post to learn how to use essential oils to help you and support you in this delicate phase of the postpartum period.

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In the last few weeks I’ve shared a few blog posts about the use and great benefits of essential oils during pregnancy.

I’ve already talked about which oils are safe for use and which ones you should avoid or use with caution. Furthermore, I’ve already shared some of the best essential oils you could use to fight the dreaded morning sickness.

Today I’m going to focus on what are the best essential oils for the postpartum period.

Here you will learn which oils to use to:

• Support physical recovery;
• Support mental wellbeing;
• Help with breastfeeding issues that might arise;
• Facilitate a good night’s sleep;
• Etc.

IMPORTANT

The content of this blog post is intended for information purposes only. It is not intended to replace professional medical advice.

I am not a doctor and I’m only sharing my personal experience here.

If you are unwell or sick, always ask your trusted doctor or medical practitioner for advice. Pay particular attention if you are allergic or intolerant to any food and/or medication, if you are pregnant or breast-feeding. Children and elderly people should also seek medical attention quickly if unwell or experiencing any symptom.

Even if you don’t experience any symptom, always contact your trusted health provider if in doubt. If you feel unwell and are worried, it is safer to ask for medical advice from a professional than to wait.

Never risk it!

What to expect right after you give birth?

After birth, all the attention is naturally concentrated on the baby. Everyone wants to have a look and maybe a cuddle with your new bundle of joy.

However, new moms need just as much attention as their newborn baby. 

Indeed, pregnancy in itself is only the first stage of what you are going through right now. Many forget how delicate and taxing on the new mum postpartum is.

Postpartum women might experience: 

• Sore muscles, and aches and pains everywhere;
• Postpartum contractions;
• Sore breasts;
• Haemorrhoids;
• Sleeplessness;
• Hormonal fluctuations;
• A range of emotions from happiness to sadness; 
• Extreme fatigue;
• General sense of overwhelm and negative feelings;
• Postpartum depression.

All of the above are pretty common, and you might experience only a few of them, or many.

THE BEST ESSENTIAL OILS FOR POSTPARTUM

Today my dear friend, I’m here to tell you that you are not alone. 

Thankfully, there are many home remedies and natural solutions you could try to ease some of the symptoms of postpartum.

Essential oils for sure can help you incredibly. They can provide the much needed support for you and your newborn.

Let’s have a look at some of my favorite oils you could try today!

important

Only use 100% unadulterated and pure essential oils, from a reputable company. 

Never use essential oils topically unless properly diluted, and only use them after a patch test.

Pay particular attention if you are pregnant, breast-feeding, or on older people and young children.

Some people might develop skin irritations or adverse reactions.

Never ingest essential oils without reading the label first, as not all oils can be consumed internally.

Always talk to your trusted medical practitioner and/or certified aromatherapist before using essential oils, especially if you suffer from any allergy, intolerance, are ill or are already taking any medication.

ALWAYS FOLLOW ESSENTIAL OIL SAFETY GUIDELINES!

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How do you use postpartum essential oils?

There is ample debate on how you can safely use essential oils if you are a nursing mum, and whether you should use essential oils on a newborn or not.

I fully understand that this is a personal choice, and I would highly recommend you do your own research, and talk to your trusted healthcare provider before making an informed decision.

Whatever you decide to do, bear in mind that essential oils can be used in three different ways.

Aromatically

The effectiveness of aromatherapy has been well documented in recent years.

Put a few drops of essential oils in your diffuser, and enjoy their aromatic power.

If you are diffusing around a newborn, it is best to leave a door open, as the oils might be overwhelming for a baby.

Alternatively, put one drop of oil on your palm and inhale from cupped hands.

Lastly, inhale straight from the bottle.

Topically

If using essential oils topically, remember that they need to be properly diluted first.

You can make up a roller bottle using your favourite carrier oil (choose from fractionated coconut oil, avocado oil, sweet almond oil, jojoba oil, etc.).

Never apply essential oils neat on your skin.

Do not use any essential oil or blend on a newborn unless you have asked for advice from your trusted doctor or a certified aromatherapist.

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For a safe dilution chart for adults, you could check this FREE RESOURCE here!

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Internally

Not all oils can be ingested, so you should always check the label first.

In addition to that, not all essential oils are safe to use if you are breastfeeding.

What essential oils are good for postpartum healing?

After birth, your body will need a few weeks to recover. During that initial period (generally 6 weeks), you will suffer from contractions (as your uterus contracts back to its original size), bleeding, back pain and general aches and pains. 

Essential oils can provide all the support you need in a natural way.

ESSENTIAL OILS ROLLER BOTTLE FOR AFTER BIRTH CONTRACTIONS AND PAINS

Make up a roller bottle using any of the following essential oils and top up with a carrier oil. Apply topically to the abdomen and gently massage.

Choose from any of these great oils:

• Ylang Ylang
• Frankincense 
• Clary Sage
• Fennel
• Lavender
• Geranium
• Bergamot
• Roman Chamomile
• Cedarwood

ESSENTIAL OILS POSTPARTUM SPRAY

You can make up this easy spray in a few minutes and use it as needed.

I would not recommend you whip it up before birth, as water spoils very quickly, and you might risk using a contaminated DIY product when you actually need it.

In a spray bottle, 

add 10 drops each of lavender essential oil and frankincense essential oil. Top up with cooled boiled water. Shake well to mix and before each use. Discard after a week max.

You can store this bottle in the fridge to prolong its shelf life, and to provide a cooling effect when you use it.

To use, spray on your perineum for immediate relief.

IF YOU HAVE HAD STITCHES,

You can use this combination of oils instead:

• 10 drops of lavender oil;
• 5 drops of frankincense oil;
• 5 drops of tea tree oil.

Tea tree essential oil is an anti-microbial oil that can help speed up recovery and maintain your stitches clean.

Lavender is very soothing and will help with soreness and tenderness around the area.

ESSENTIAL OIL SPRAY FOR POSTPARTUM PADS

After birth, you will experience bleeding for up to 6 weeks.

While heavy in the first few days, the bleeding will slowly become lighter as the days pass.

You could use the spray mentioned above and simply spritz a clean pad before you use it. This will provide relief and at the same time will minimise the bad odour from the discharge.

ESSENTIAL OILS FOR Haemorrhoids

Haemorrhoids are unfortunately very common postpartum. If you experience them at any stage during your pregnancy, or afterwards, you could apply topically geranium, cypress, melaleuca (tea tree), patchouli, frankincense, rose, siberian fir or myrrh. Simply massage the affected area as needed.

ESSENTIAL OILS FOR MUSCLE aches and pains in general 

For a soothing effect, and for fast pain relief, you could do an aromatherapy massage using lavender oil or ylang-ylang, ginger, roman chamomile, copaiba, siberian fir, marjoram, lemongrass and frankincense.

Use any of those oils topically and after dilution. Apply directly on the affected area.

ESSENTIAL OILS FOR BABY BRAIN OR BRAIN FOG

Maybe due to the range of hormones going around your body, or the fatigue, the lack of sleep, and the worries that come with having to care for a new tiny person, baby brain is a real thing!

To fight brain fog, you could diffuse frankincense, peppermint, rosemary, basil and lemon.

If you opt for topical use instead, apply those oils on your forehead, behind your neck and around your temples.

ESSENTIAL OILS TO PROMOTE Sleep 

Newborns don’t really care that mummy (and daddy) wants to sleep at night. Sadly they can be up all night and sleep well during the day.

Sleepless nights are indeed one of the hardest “side effects” of pregnancy and postpartum.

Although your baby will start sleeping better as the weeks pass, you can start using essential oils at any stage, to speed up the process!

For a restful sleep, at night diffuse lavender, copaiba, chamomile or vetiver. Remember to leave the bedroom door open as to not overwhelm your baby.

ESSENTIAL OILS FOR baby blues 

The changing hormones levels in your body can give cause to what are called the “baby blues”. In other words, you might experience feelings of sadness and depression, general low mood and a sense of loss and helplessness.

Once again, essential oils can provide support if needed.

Wild orange and all the citrus oils (such as lemon, grapefruit, bergamot, etc.) are widely known for the emotional support they provide. Diffuse them or inhale straight from the bottle.

For added help, pair any citrus oil with melissa, lavender, copaiba, roman chamomile, yang ylang and frankincense.

You can also apply them topically on your pulse points and over your heart.

If you decide to apply any citrus oil topically, remember to avoid sun exposure for at least 12 hours afterwords.

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IMPORTANT

Although baby blues are very common, if you are worried in any way, always consult  with your GP as some women suffer from post natal depression. Help is always available, so do not worry.

ESSENTIAL OILS FOR Anxiety 

As well as the baby blues, anxiety is quite common during and after pregnancy.

For example, you might be worried about the health of your baby, or about the financial implications of adding to your family.

If you are stressed and need something to bring a sense of calmness, you could diffuse any of the following oils: rose, copaiba, frankincense, lavender, wild orange, chamomile, vetiver and bergamot.

For a calming effect, you can also apply them topically on your pulse points and over your heart.

ESSENTIAL OILS FOR FATIGUE

If you thought that being pregnant was hard work, wait until your new baby is born!

Caring for a baby is indeed very tiring as they require your continuous attention. Add that to the lack of sleep and you have the perfect cocktail for a feeling of extreme fatigue.

Once again, essential oils can help. If used correctly, oils can indeed boost your energy levels naturally, as well as promote focus and attention.

Use any of the following essential oils, topically (apply on pulse points), or diffuse them in your home.

Choose between:

• Any citrus oil (such as lemon, orange, bergamot, lime, grapefruit, tangerine);
• Rosemary;
• Frankincense;
• Basil;
• Lemongrass.

ESSENTIAL OILS FOR HAIR LOSS

I remember very well the incredible hair I had when I was pregnant: shiny and glossy and thick.

Indeed, why does your hair get thicker during pregnancy? Pregnancy hormones are responsible for changes in your hair. Generally speaking, women observe an improvement in their hair, but occasionally they can experience hair loss.

Once the baby is born and your body tries to return to its original hormonal state, it is very common to see an increased hair loss.

Normally this is nothing to worry about, and it will settle in a few weeks.

Thankfully, some essential oils can help you to treat and prevent hair loss.

You can use oils in different ways to support a healthy hair growth.

USE CASTOR OIL FOR HAIR GROWTH

Simply fill a jar or bottle with castor oil and add a few drops of rosemary, cedarwood, lavender, frankincense, and clary sage. Massage the scalp with this mix every night before going to bed. The following morning, wash your hair as per normal.

USE WITCH HAZEL FOR HAIR GROWTH

Witch hazel is another excellent ingredient to use to promote healthy hair growth.

Fill a spray bottle with it and add a few drops of any of the oils mentioned above.

Shake well to mix, and before each use.

Spray your hair up to 3 times a day with this mix.

ADD OILS TO YOUR SHAMPOO AND CONDITIONER

Next time you are opening a new bottle of shampoo and/or conditioner, simply add 1 drop of rosemary and one drop of lavender to it. Mix well.

Use your hair products as per normal.

ESSENTIAL OILS FOR WEIGHT LOSS

I admit that after the birth of my first child, I had underestimated how long it takes to go back to a healthy weight. I had hoped (or wished) that the extra kilos would go away faster. Sadly, that was not the case.

A wise woman once told me that, if it takes 9 months to put on the extra weight, it will most likely take the same amount of time for your body to reshape and go back to its old self.

Breastfeeding, a healthy diet and exercise all play an important role in losing the pregnancy weight. However, essential oils can also help you.

For example, a drop of lemon oil in water before your breakfast can effectively help you to detox and speed up your metabolism.

Grapefruit oil is excellent to fight sugar cravings on the other hand.

DOTERRA SLIM AND SASSY

Doterra has an essential oil blend called “slim and sassy” that is specifically helpful when trying to loose weight.

Its main ingredients are cinnamon, ginger, grapefruit, lemon and peppermint.

HOWEVER, IF YOU ARE BREASTFEEDING, DO NOT INGEST ANY OIL FOR WEIGHT LOSS UNTIL YOU HAVE RECEIVED THE ADVICE OF YOUR DOCTOR OR CERTIFIED AROMATHERAPIST.

ESSENTIAL OILS FOR BREASTFEEDING

Although essential oils can be very beneficial when you are nursing, not all oils are safe during breastfeeding.

Can breastfeeding moms use essential oils? What essential oils should I avoid while breastfeeding?

You most certainly can use oils during lactation, and indeed these natural plant extract can help to increase or decrease milk supply, and can also support you in case something goes wrong.

Whatever you do, make sure that if you apply oils topically on your breasts, the oils are completely absorbed, and there is no residue left before feeding your baby.

Do not let your baby ingest essential oils!

What essential oils decrease milk supply?

Some oils indeed are known to decrease milk supply, so it is best to avoid them altogether for the nursing period.

I’m talking about peppermint oil and spearmint oil.

Definitively do not use them if you are trying to establish breastfeeding or just simply to increase milk supply.

On the other hand, if you are trying to decrease milk supply cause you have decided to switch to bottle-feeding, you might want to use those oils. In that case, make a 10 ml roller bottle with them and add the carrier oil you prefer. 

Apply the blend around your breasts every few hours.

What essential oils increase breast milk?

To increase your milk supply, you might want to try these oils:

• Fennel;
• Clary sage;
• Doterra Clary calm; 
• Basil;
• Geranium;
• Cardamom.

You can make a DIY roller bottle with any of those oils and a carrier oil of choice.

Alternatively, make a simple salve following this recipe!

DIY BREASTFEEDING SALVE

You will need:

• a small glass jar to store the salve;
• 8 tsp of carrier oil;
• 4 tsp of organic beeswax;
• 6 drops in total of Essential oils (choose any from the above list).

Instructions

Put the carrier oil and the beeswax in a small pot, and gently melt over low heat or a double boiler.

Stir continuously to avoid the ingredients sticking to the pan.

Once the ingredients have fully melted, remove the pan from the heat.

Continue stirring and as the mix has cooled down a little, add the oils.

Mix well.

Pour the contents into the glass jar, close the lid tightly, and let it cool down completely. 

Once the salve has hardened (after a few hours), it will be ready for use.

Store in a cupboard or drawer, away from direct heat and light.

Discard after 6 months max.

To use

Simply rub a little amount of the salve to your breasts and massage.

Repeat every few hours.

Let the skin absorb the salve fully before feeding your baby again.

THE BEST essential oils for sore breasts

Breastfeeding is surely a wonderful experience for new mums. It really helps with promoting a healthy and happy bond with your baby. Most importantly, breastmilk is so vital when it comes to provide your little bundle of joy with the best start in life in terms of his/her health.

However, the first few weeks of breast-feeding can sometimes be accompanied by sore and cracked nipples. 

This is perfectly normal, and it is just your body adjusting to a new situation.

Thankfully, you don’t need to suffer in silence.

Lavender, Chamomile, Geranium, Helicrysum, Clary sage, Frankincense and Palmarosa, can be very beneficial oils. 

Apply them topically by making a roller bottle or a salve, as described earlier. 

IMPORTANT

If you are worried in any way about breastfeeding, or if you suspect you might have mastitis or another issue related to nursing, please do seek advice from your doctor, midwife or lactation consultant immediately.

THE BEST ESSENTIAL OILS FOR POSTPARTUM: CONCLUSIONS

If you have just given birth, congratulations of course. I hope you are enjoying every moment of these wonderful weeks.

However, if you are suffering from any of the common ailments I mentioned in this post, I hope you will find my suggestions and recipes helpful.

As always, feel free to leave a comment below as I’d love to hear from you.

IMPORTANT

When using Essential Oils, make sure to use only CPTG Certified, Pure, Tested Grade ones, like Doterra Essential Oils. The content of this blog post and any information provided here has not been evaluated by the FDA (Food and Drug Administration), any government entity or medical practitioner. It is NOT intended to diagnose, treat, cure or prevent any disease, illness or condition. It is NOT intended to be a substitute for medical counselling. If you are pregnant, breastfeeding, or suffering from any medical condition or illness or injury, you SHOULD consult a qualified healthcare professional before using any product.