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Is rosemary oil safe in breastfeeding?

Understanding the Safety of Rosemary Oil During Breastfeeding
As more mothers turn to natural remedies and essential oils for various health benefits, the question of whether rosemary oil is safe during breastfeeding has gained attention. While rosemary is commonly used in cooking and has a long history of medicinal use, its application as an essential oil raises specific concerns for nursing mothers.
Natural Does Not Always Mean Safe
One of the primary considerations for breastfeeding mothers is that “natural” products, including essential oils, are not inherently safe. According to experts, there are several cautions that mothers should take into account before using essential oils, including rosemary. This is particularly important because the compounds in essential oils can be potent and may affect both the mother and the infant.
Rosemary Oil and Its Effects
Research indicates that while rosemary is generally considered safe when used in culinary amounts, the concentrated form found in essential oils can pose risks. Some anecdotal evidence suggests that rosemary oil may have adverse effects, particularly when used in large quantities or in concentrated forms. However, the specifics regarding its safety during breastfeeding are not entirely clear, as much of the historical concern stems from its use in essential oil form rather than as a culinary herb.
Expert Opinions on Usage
Experts suggest that using rosemary in cooking is typically safe for breastfeeding mothers. Cooking with rosemary or using it in hair rinses is generally considered acceptable. However, when it comes to essential oils, caution is advised. The potential for absorption through the skin and the subsequent transfer to breast milk means that mothers should be careful about the concentration and amount of rosemary oil they use.
Alternatives and Recommendations
For mothers looking for alternatives or safer options, there are other herbs and essential oils that are deemed safe during breastfeeding. It is always advisable for nursing mothers to consult with healthcare providers before introducing any new herbal products into their routine. This ensures that both the mother and the infant remain safe and healthy.
In conclusion, while culinary use of rosemary is generally safe for breastfeeding mothers, the use of rosemary oil should be approached with caution. Consulting with a healthcare professional can provide personalized guidance and help navigate the complexities of using essential oils during this sensitive time.

Can I use rosemary oil postpartum?

Do be aware of looking up any essential oils before using them, as many are contraindicated for breastfeeding or not appropriate for infant exposure. Rosemary is not safe for contact with babies, but is not contraindicated for breastfeeding.

What oils should not be diffused around babies?

Since a baby’s sinuses, lungs, and bodies are still developing, you should never use an essential oil diffuser when your baby is present. Some companies create specific essential oil blends designed with baby’s safety in mind. When possible, look for these blends to dilute instead of using the full-strength versions.

Who should not use rosemary oil?

Rosemary oil is highly concentrated. Using too much of it may damage the hair follicles, causing hair loss instead of hair growth. Anyone with a skin condition or skin sensitivity should use caution when using essential oils. They can cause allergic reactions or worsen symptoms of skin conditions.

Is rosemary essential oil safe during pregnancy?

Many essential oils, such as basil, clary sage, clove, cedarwood, cypress, juniper, sweet marjoram, peppermint*, rosemary, rose and thyme are commonly classified as contra-indicated in pregnancy.

When should you not use rosemary oil?

Rosemary oil is highly concentrated. Using too much of it may damage the hair follicles, causing hair loss instead of hair growth. Anyone with a skin condition or skin sensitivity should use caution when using essential oils. They can cause allergic reactions or worsen symptoms of skin conditions.

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.

Is rosemary essential oil safe around babies?

Peppermint, rosemary and eucalyptus should not be used around young children or babies. These herbs contain menthol and 1,8-cineole which can cause seizures, slow the breathing or even stop it completely in very young children or those with respiratory problems! Please take care with these essential oils.

Who should not use rosemary essential oil?

People with high blood pressure, ulcers, Crohn’s disease, or ulcerative colitis should not take rosemary. Rosemary oil can be toxic if ingested and should never be taken orally.

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.

Can you use rosemary oil while breastfeeding?

Not enough is known about the safety of using rosemary essential oils while pregnant or breastfeeding. Talk with your doctor before using rosemary essential oil and other essential oils if you are pregnant or breastfeeding.

Natasha Lunn

Tash is an IBCLC and Business Coach helping fellow IBCLCs create fun, profitable businesses that are more than just an expensive hobby. Before becoming an IBCLC and starting her private practice - The Boobala, Tash graduated as an Osteopath in 2008 and has been in Private Practice in South West Sydney. She was also a volunteer Breastfeeding Counsellor and Community Educator with the Australian Breastfeeding Association for 6 years. Through her business, Your Lactation Biz, Tash coaches and creates products to help new and seasoned IBCLCs build businesses that suit their personality and lifestyle.

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