9.19.2008

Morning Sickness - Essential Oils and Other Suggestions to Ease the Queasiness

The nausea and vomiting of early pregnancy were topics written as early as 2000 BC by the Egyptians. Morning Sickness is one of the most disagreeable effects of pregnancy. The feeling of nausea, even without episodes of vomiting, is often experienced during the first three months of pregnancy, and with heightened symptoms during the third month. The pathological condition of hyperemesis gravidarum is more serious and may require hospitalization for intravenous fluid replacement.

The cause is unknown. Some think it can possibly be a vitamin B-6 deficiency or a low blood sugar level, or hormones running amuck. Others reason that nausea is an outcome of the placenta situating itself within the uterus during the first trimester. If you are the person suffering, you probably don't care what causes it. You just want relief.

For quick relief of morning sickness, you can inhale Peppermint (Mentha piperita) or Spearmint (Mentha spicata) essential oil. This can bring immediate relief.

You can also dilute a few drops of peppermint, spearmint, Melissa (Melissa officinalis) or Lemon (Citrus limon) with a like number of drops (half and half) of vegetable oil or lotion. Use this blend to massage 1-3 drops behind each ear (over the mastoid), or over the solar plexus area.

You could also use one or a combination of any of these oils dropping a total of 4-5 drops in a basin of around 2 cups of warm water, swishing a cotton washcloth around in the water, wringing it out, and using the cloth as a compress over the stomach. The easiest way, of course, is to take a quick whiff of the essential oil directly from the bottle.

I must suggest here that these oils should be used with caution, and with your doctor's knowledge during pregnancy. Do not use any essential oil internally or in large amounts during pregnancy. Although we know of no ill effects, this caution is submitted mostly because you should not take chances with anything when you are pregnant. When using essential oils, I suggest that you be very conservative, always using less rather than more. You may want to use less rather than more just because your sense of smell is so sensitive at this time. Use ONLY the purest therapeutic grade oils. This is very important. If impure or adulterated oils are used, you can only make the problem worse.

The safest place to apply essential oils is to the bottom of your feet. Pay special attention to the reflexology point for the stomach: the area on the bottom of the foot, in the middle of the foot on the inside in line with the big toe. The acupressure point to relieve nausea is on the inside of the arm, just above the wrist in line with the long finger.

As it's name suggests, Morning Sickness frequently appears in the morning, usually as you get out of bed, but it can be present throughout the day. The old standby remedy is to keep low-sodium crackers by your bedside, and before you get out of bed, eat a cracker, to waylay the nausea. This is the first line of defense.

Other than Essential Oils, here are a few suggestions of things you can try while you are waiting for the second trimester to arrive: Eat frequent small meals and drink lots of fluids. Most women find it easier to emphasize liquids over solids during this time. Stick to bland foods. This is not a time to try out that new Mexican or Thai restaurant. Avoid fatty, heavy food. If there is an odor that bothers you, try to avoid it. Stay away from alcohol, tobacco, coffee and black tea.

Avoid sudden moves, especially while in bed. Don't sit up too suddenly. Get up slow and easy. It helps to do positive things, and taking a walk with exercise and fresh air may make you feel better. And keep you mouth fresh by brushing your teeth often. There is a strong correlation between taste and smell.

I invite you to my web-page to learn more about essential oils. This article is written for informational purposes only and is not meant to diagnose or treat medical problems. The advice and care of a physician is recommended for your health concerns. Aromatherapy is intended as complementary care with health care providers, not as an alternative to care.
A registered aromatherapist, Judy has a special interest in using essential oils in health care and prevention. For information about Judy and for ways to obtain her favorite essential oils, visit her Web page at:
http://home.comcast.net/~judy922/site/
Article Source: http://EzineArticles.com/?expert=Judy_Lausch



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