Two essential oils are known to have potential negative effects on milk supply: Peppermint and Clary sage. In this MomJunction post, we tell you if it is safe to use essential oils when breastfeeding, their uses, and possible side-effects. Peppermint is the more noticeable of these, but I have found that using it in normal to small doses that I have had no effect on my milk supply. Some women don’t see a huge drop in their milk supply when it is used but, many do. The first place I remember reading that peppermint (Mentha x piperita) oil may be contraindicated for nursing mothers was in Sheila Humphrey’s The Nursing Mother’s Herbal (a favorite of mine, by the way).In this text, Humphrey mentions a case study involving a mother who eats large amounts of Altoids and experiences a decline in milk supply. Please read our Disclaimer. Peppermint oil contains L-menthol, which blocks the calcium channels in the smooth muscle and produces an antispasmodic effect on the gastrointestinal muscles. 101 Sweet And Cute Baby Girl Names With Meanings, 12th Week Pregnancy: Symptoms, Baby Development And Body Changes, 25 Best Educational Toys For Kids In 2020. 3 things to consider before using essential oils while breastfeeding. PMID: 17767120. Although most oils are available over the counter, the safety regulations vary for various essential oils. Most essential oil manufacturers do not recommend oral use while breastfeeding since the oil may reach breast milk. Avoid using peppermint oil as it is known to decrease the supply of milk in your breast. 2007;13:CR406-11. If you're a breastfeeding parent who wants to be discreet when feeding in public, a … Oregano you can just mix in your food and it will help lower your supply, but it is not as effective as peppermint and sage. Lavender Essential Oil: Lavender essential oil is highly effective in treating dry, cracked nipples. In general though, a nursing mama would have to eat/drink large quantities of, for example, peppermint tea in order to have any sort of effect on milk supply. I recommend peppermint oil capsules to eat, and wearing crushed green cabbage leaves in your bra to help reduce your supply. Is It Safe To Take Claritin (Loratadine) While Breastfeeding? However, individual cases may be different. For example, EOs rich in phenols and aldehydes may cause allergy in some individuals. Every article goes through multiple reviews to ensure this. In addition peppermint oil also contains antimicrobial, anti-inflammatory, antioxidant, immunomodulating, and anesthetic activities, all of which may be relevant for the treatment of IBS In traditional medicine, their use for therapeutic purposes is well-documented. The mode of use for every EO is not the same. consider these points to make safe use of essential oil when breastfeeding (18). EOs can be useful for lactation-related concerns. If there is any lack of sufficient evidence, we make sure we mention it. So, the question is — is is safe to consume peppermint while breastfeeding? Add 1 drop of peppermint essential oil to 4 ounces of water (about half a cup) in … Peppermint (Mentha x piperita) contains menthol, menthone, menthyl acetate as major ingredients. This information is for educational purposes only and not a substitute for professional health services. Hence, consult a doctor or a lactation expert before using them. One of the most versatile essential oils in the world, peppermint essential oil can be used for an abundance of topical and oral remedies. Menthol breastfeeding therapy for weaning purposes. Purchase pure grade oils from reliable brands. However, for every therapy, the mode of use must be directed by a healthcare provider, since an EO can be specific to the purpose of use. Also dilute the oil before applying it to your breast. Peppermint mainly poses a problem when used therapeutically or in larger amounts. EOs are different from herbs. The following EOs are generally considered safe to use during breastfeeding. The amounts of these herbs normally used in cooking are unlikely to be of concern; it's mainly the larger amounts that might be used therapeutically that could pose a problem. HOWEVER, one important point to note is that some breastfeeding moms have reported a noticeable decrease in their milk supply even after only ingesting small amounts of the herb such as that found in peppermint teas, strong peppermint candies or menthol cough drops. I use it for allergies but didn’t have an issue with my supply while breastfeeding. Considering the potential side-effects that they may have, it is wise to use them as per medical advice only. What Are The Effects Of Eating Junk Food In Kids? Please let me know if you have any further questions. In fact, there are several herbs that should be avoided while breastfeeding either because they can be harmful to mom and/or baby OR because they can decrease milk supply. This includes ingesting peppermint as well as applying topically or even diffusing it. See a medical professional for personalized consultation. The methanol present in the herbal tea serves as a muscle relaxant and offer tremendous relief from stress. In most cases, mothers who did experience a dip in supply were able to normalize it within a few days once they stopped using peppermint and nursed, nursed, nursed, nursed (or pumped)! Holistic Nutrition & Wellness to Help the WHOLE Family Thrive Through Fertility, Pregnancy, Postpartum, Breastfeeding & Beyond. Traditionally, peppermint oil (in addition to several other herbs) has been used in order to help decrease milk supply. Your main concern with nursing and essential oils will be regarding milk supply and quality. However, there are certain oils that should always be avoided while breastfeeding. I … This really is just to be on the safe side, but for whatever reason, some moms have been found to be extremely sensitive to even the smallest amount of peppermint while lactating. Some mothers have claimed to decrease their milk supply with strong peppermint candies like Altoids. Peppermint oil is also being studied as a form of pain relief for hard to treat chronic pain conditions. Med Sci Monit. Peppermint oil is an essential oil that is extracted from the peppermint plant using a process called distillation. Thus, a herb may be safe to use while breastfeeding, but its essential oil not necessarily safe. The following EOs are generally considered not safe for use when breastfeeding. Chia Seeds And Breastfeeding: Safety, Benefits And Side Effects. Is It Safe To Eat Cheese While You Are Breastfeeding? There are many documented peppermint oil uses from as far back as 1,000 BC, where evidence of its use by the ancient Egyptians exists in several pyramids. As with any use for essential oils, different people have different success with the wide array of options. Is It Safe For A Breastfeeding Mom To Eat Honey? So, for example, do not apply Breathe or Peppermint to your chest and then hold baby to it. Spearmint oil offers many of the same benefits as Peppermint oil, but serves as a milder option to help with sensitivity or stomach upset that occurs during pregnancy. You can ensure essential oils safety by following some precautions. Now, let’s move on to the fun stuff- how you can use essential oils while breastfeeding! Peppermint oil is made by distilling the ground parts of the peppermint plant, and not all of its possible uses are thoroughly tested and proven. A few drops of lavender oil in a bath can do wonders for relaxation and sleep issues! Wild orange or lemon oil … However, some moms have noticed a decrease in supply … A randomized trial of peppermint gel, lanolin ointment, and placebo gel to prevent nipple crack in primiparous breastfeeding women. Peppermint mainly poses a problem when used therapeutically or in larger amounts. Momjunction believes in credibility and giving our readers access to authentic and evidence-based content. Not every oil works the same for everyone. Peppermint essential oil provides a familiar, recognizable scent, but Peppermint is so much more than simply a nostalgic, fresh aroma. Menthol, which is in peppermint oil, should not be inhaled by or applied to the face of an infant or small child because it may negatively affect their breathing. You can contact my friend Ashley at @EverydayEssentialMom if you want to order some oils. You can dilute the thing with vegetable oil with high quality. Apply some diluted lavender oil to the bottom of your feet for a wonderful night’s sleep. Breastfeeding & Peppermint: Does it affect milk supply? The use of essential oils as plant therapy or herbal treatment remedies is prevalent. However, they must be used with caution. Peppermint oil – I also heard from a friend that you can use peppermint oil to help in drying you up. Also shop for peppermint oil and jasmine flowers, ... Breastfeeding advocacy group La Leche League explains that it’s common to see a drop in supply between the fourth and fifth months of pregnancy. Peppermint is a plant also known as Brandy Mint, Extract of Mentha Piperita, Extract of Peppermint, Extrait de Feuilles de Menthe de Poivrée, Herba Menthae, Menta Piperita, Mentha arvensis, Mint, Mint Balm, Paparaminta, Peppermint Extract, Peppermint Leaf, Peppermint Leaf Extract, Peppermint Oil, Western Peppermint, and other names. They are used for disinfection, relaxation, dietary, and cosmetic purposes. Cover with a shirt, towel, etc., apply somewhere else or wait to hold baby. Now, the same can’t always be said for herbs. There are studies in which peppermint oil was used by breastfeeding women, but none of them looked at the milk supply issue. All rights reserved. Regardless, since all moms have their own unique biochemistry, my best advice is to be cautious if you choose to indulge in the peppermint flavors of the holiday season…especially if you already have a history of low milk supply or if baby isn’t nursing well. However, their safety and efficacy during lactation require more research. For this reason, occasional peppermint flavored goodies are unlikely to be too much of a concern. Peppermint is a purported galactogogue; howe… Is It Safe To Use Essential Oils When Breastfeeding? What Is Peppermint Oil? Essential oils for Breastfeeding The biggest question is always – Is it SAFE? As I mentioned in the post, peppermint is considered fine during pregnancy but not during breastfeeding because it may reduce milk supply. Our stringent editorial guidelines allow us to cite only from reputed research institutions, academic journals, medically established studies, and highly regarded media and news agencies. Remember to always consult a healthcare provider before using an EO topically or orally as dietary supplements. It is important to ensure the purity of essential oils. Peppermint essential oil can be used to make an energizing drink. People have used peppermint oil for centuries to treat a … Your feedback helps us serve you better and maintain a long-term relationship with the most important people in our business — you. Different essential oils perform different functions in the body. Dosage and duration of essential oils vary. Considered the most evidence-based resource available, Essential Oil Safety took 10+ years to write and contains over 4000 citations. Peppermint tea is a weak form of peppermint, and you would need to drink large amounts before it would affect your milk supply. Peppermint oil in a gel, water, or cream applied topically to the nipple area of breastfeeding women might be helpful for reducing pain and cracked skin. Avoiding minty foods and drinks can be very inconvenient when a mother is still lactating. 1. Peppermint oil has also been used for the same purpose. Check whether the oil needs to be steamed or warmed before usage. The ingestion or topical use of just about anything mint while breastfeeding is not recommended as it is known to cause a decrease in milk production. When used under medical guidance, the use of EOs can be considered “possibly safe” when breastfeeding. Top of page. If you recently enjoyed a peppermint treat or used the oil therapeutically and noticed a decrease in supply, keep calm and breastfeed on! Some may be safe to ingest or use topically, while others may not. Minor ingredients include 1,8-cineole, pulegone, bitter substances, caffeic acid, flavonoids, and tannins. The chemical composition of all the essential oils is not the same. If you get engorged cold compresses will help. 5. If you discover any discrepancy in our content, we welcome you to write to us. Peppermint tea is an excellent energy booster and helps you overcome stress and anxiety while you are breastfeeding. You … As holiday prep begins, peppermint mochas and candy canes become just as synonymous with the season as Christmas shopping and going home for the holidays. HOWEVER, one important point to note is that some breastfeeding moms have reported a noticeable decrease in their milk supply even after only ingesting small amounts of the herb such as that found in peppermint teas, strong peppermint candies or menthol cough drops. But as Starbucks releases their Holiday Drink Lineup, so many of the already caffeine-deprived moms I work with begin to ask questions regarding the safety of a cup - or any other treat - full of peppermint deliciousness while they’re nursing. The DigestZen ® Digestive Blend is doTERRA’s tummy tamer blend and provides a healthy, natural way to soothe an upset stomach. Peppermint (and spearmint) can potentially decrease milk supply…but not necessarily. Essential oils for breastfeeding can have positive side effects for a mom’s mental health. In the past, Plant Therapy said it was safe; however, a few experts reached out and disagreed. I fully subscribe to the idea that as long as a breastfeeding mama attempts to eat a whole foods, nutrient-dense diet at least most of the time - which will not only nourish mom and baby, but will also aid in postpartum recovery - then there really isn’t much that she needs to avoid while breastfeeding. There may be situations where you wonder if peppermint oil will help your baby overcome a sickness or if it is safe for you to take while you are breastfeeding. Before planning to ingest an essential oil, check if it is recognized as safe for oral use. Is It Safe To Drink Cranberry Juice When Breastfeeding? * If you find yourself concerned about your milk supply, I highly encourage you to seek the advice of an experienced lactation consultant. Akbari SA, Alamolhoda SH, Baghban AA, Mirabi P. Effects of menthol essence and breast milk on the improvement of nipple fissures in breastfeeding women. This oil can be diffused to … Some oils can be used safely in limited amounts for a long duration. Maternal allergy can impact breastfeeding and the infant’s health. Essential oils (EO) are natural oils extracted from aromatic plants or herbs. Using large amounts of the following herbs and other natural remedies should be avoided while nursing because they have been known to decrease milk supply. Beans And Breastfeeding: Safety, Benefits, And Precautions. Peppermint oil comes from the peppermint plant, which is a hybrid of spearmint and water mint. Shown to be beneficial at certain therapeutic levels - in calming the mind, relieving joint and muscle pain, alleviating headaches, and relieving symptoms of IBS among others - peppermint oil is typically used in higher concentrations than in amounts normally used in cooking or found in foods/beverages. Research shows that breastfeeding women who apply peppermint oil in gel, cream, or water to their skin have less cracked skin and pain in the nipple area. Peppermint (caution when breastfeeding)* * There are experts that say Peppermint will decrease your milk supply (this would include Peppermint Tea and Peppermint Essential Oil); however, there isn’t much research or proof on this. Peppermint oil also is used for a variety of health conditions and can be taken orally in dietary supplements or topically as a skin cream or ointment. The carrier oils will allow the oil to settle in your breast, for a while. The number one oil you want to use caution with while breastfeeding is peppermint. The oil is considered an effective cure for digestive issues, respiratory problems, and sinusitis.It also supports the health of … Besides these common oils, there are a few others, such as aniseed, mugwort, camphor, and parsley that need to be avoided when breastfeeding (17). Indigestion (dyspepsia). Essential Oils Considered Safe When Breastfeeding, Essential Oils To Avoid When Breastfeeding, Things To Consider Before Using EOs When Breastfeeding, Precautions To Take While Using Essential Oils, Effect of Lavender Oil Aroma in the Early Hours of Postpartum Period on Maternal Pains, Fatigue, and Mood: A Randomized Clinical Trial, Effect of lavender scent inhalation on prevention of stress, anxiety and depression in the postpartum period, Essential oils used in aromatherapy: A systemic review, Staphylococcus aureus and wounds: a review of tea tree oil as a promising antimicrobial, Commercial Essential Oils as Potential Antimicrobials to Treat Skin Diseases, Essential Oils for Complementary Treatment of Surgical Patients: State of the Art, Effects of menthol essence and breast milk on the improvement of nipple fissures in breastfeeding women, Comparison of the Effects of Lanolin, Peppermint, and Dexpanthenol Creams on Treatment of Traumatic Nipples in Breastfeeding Mothers, Chamomile: A herbal medicine of the past with bright future, 4 Amazingly Different Ways You Can Use Fenugreek During Your Lactation Period. 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