Can I use essential oils when breast-feeding?

It is a matter of personal choice.

There is no documented evidence to suggest that there are any risks. You are likely to be ingesting more essential oils from your food than in the form of traditional aromatherapy e.g. orange oil in good quality marmalades and mint in your toothpaste.

As Essential Oils are 100% natural many believe that they are much safer to use in the home than air fresheners, scented polishes, fabric softeners and perfume that are artificially created. However, if you are worried use them on clothes or in a burner rather than directly on your skin in the form of massage or the bath.

One problem that does occasionally arise is that individuals use fatigue beating citrus oils and these over stimulate the baby causing agitation. Try Chamomile and Lavender for relaxation and healing, Bergamot and Clary-Sage to beat fatigue and Tea-Tree to prevent infections and strengthen your immune system.