Can I use lavender while breastfeeding?

Understanding Lavender Use While Breastfeeding
The question of whether lavender can be safely used during breastfeeding is a nuanced one, with varying opinions among health professionals and researchers. Lavender, scientifically known as *Lavandula angustifolia*, is commonly used for its calming properties, often found in essential oils, teas, and topical applications. However, its safety during lactation is a topic of concern.
Potential Risks and Recommendations
According to the Drugs and Lactation Database (LactMed), lavender contains several compounds, including linalool and linalyl acetate, which have been associated with various effects on the body. While lavender has traditionally been used to alleviate anxiety and promote relaxation, it does not have specific lactation-related uses. Importantly, there is no substantial evidence indicating that lavender is harmful to breastfeeding infants when used in moderation.
However, some sources advise caution. For instance, a review from E-lactation suggests that lavender is not recommended for breastfeeding mothers, indicating that its use could potentially lead to adverse effects, although specific details on these effects are not extensively documented. Additionally, BabyCenter lists lavender among other herbs that should be avoided during breastfeeding, citing concerns about their safety.
Essential Oils and Breastfeeding
The use of essential oils, including lavender, is a common practice among new mothers seeking relaxation and stress relief. While some advocates highlight the benefits of lavender for promoting sleep and reducing anxiety, it is crucial to approach this with caution. The Marie Biancuzzo article emphasizes that “natural doesn’t mean safe,” urging breastfeeding mothers to consider the potential impacts of essential oils on both themselves and their infants.
Conclusion
In summary, while lavender is widely regarded for its soothing properties, its use during breastfeeding should be approached with caution. The consensus among various health resources suggests that while moderate use may not pose significant risks, it is advisable for mothers to consult healthcare professionals before incorporating lavender into their routines. This ensures that both the mother’s and the infant’s health are prioritized, allowing for informed decisions regarding the use of lavender and other essential oils during this sensitive period.

What oils should I avoid while breastfeeding?

Essential Oils To Avoid During Pregnancy and Breastfeeding

• Anise, Pimpinella anisum
• Anise (star), Illicium verum
• Araucaria, Neocallitropsis pancheri
• Artemisia vestita, Artemisia vestita
• Atractylis, Atractyllodes lancea
• Birch (sweet), Betula lenta
• Black seed, Nigella sativa
• Buchu (diosphenol CT), Agathosma betulina ct.

Are there any herbs to avoid while breastfeeding?

Herbs to avoid while breastfeeding

• Periwinkle Herb (Vinca minor)
• Sage (Salvia officinalis)
• Sorrel (Rumex acetosa)
• Spearmint
• Thyme
• Yarrow

How does lavender affect babies?

The cortisol levels of this group of mothers and infants significantly decreased, confirming the behavioral data showing increased relaxation of the mothers and their infants. These findings support a body of research showing the relaxing and sleep-inducing properties of lavender aroma.

Is lavender safe while breastfeeding?

Many of my favorite uses for lavender are especially great during postpartum and breastfeeding. Most especially, lavender helps promote a good night’s sleep and relaxation. A common cause for the reduction of milk supply is stress because it inhibits the release of the hormones that promote milk production.

Why can’t you use lavender while pregnant?

Undiluted essential oils are highly toxic and should not be swallowed during pregnancy or at any other time. Undiluted essential oils should also not be applied to the skin as they can cause severe irritation and/or allergy.

What essential oil stops breastfeeding?

Sage, peppermint, spearmint, lemon balm, oregano, and cabbage leaves can all be incorporated into a pressed oil (cold pressed or hot) to make massage oils for milk suppression. Peppermint essential oil has been used traditionally for decreasing milk supply.

What is not recommended for breastfeeding?

Medical Contraindications for Breastfeeding
There are a few medical contraindications to breastfeeding, and these include: An infant who has the metabolic disorder of classic galactosemia (galactose 1-phosphate uridyltransferase deficiency). A mother living with human T-cell lymphotrophic virus type I or type II.

Can I put lavender oil on my pillow in pregnancy?

We don’t have enough research to say how essential oils affect babies in the womb (uterus). Anything you take into your body may reach your baby and it’s possible that traces of the oils can cross the placenta. That’s why it’s best to be cautious, and talk to your doctor or midwife before using essential oils.

Why avoid cinnamon while breastfeeding?

Coumarin, an ingredient in some cinnamon products, can cause liver problems, but the amount you’d get is so small that it probably won’t be a problem. Given the lack of evidence about its safety, children, pregnant women, and women who are breastfeeding should avoid cinnamon as a treatment.

Is it safe to diffuse lavender around newborns?

Safe use of aromatherapy
Use only the essential oils that have been studied and found to be safe and effective for use with children over the age of 3. These include lavender, peppermint, citrus, such as sweet orange or mandarin, and ginger.