Plant power during pregnancy

Pflanzenkraft in der Schwangerschaft

Gentle accompaniment by the power of nature

Pregnancy is a magical time – full of anticipation, but sometimes also marked by small and large challenges. Perhaps you feel more tired than usual, more sensitive, or are looking for moments to pause for breath. It's precisely in these moments that the power of plants can be a soothing companion. Used with appropriate mindfulness, essential oils offer you small sanctuaries of relaxation, help you reconnect with yourself – and remind you to take good care of yourself while carrying new life within you.

Can I actually use essential oils during pregnancy?

Many pregnant women ask themselves this question: What is allowed during this time? What is safe? Especially during pregnancy, familiar habits are questioned – the search for natural, gentle solutions begins. But even with herbal remedies, less is more, because plants have powert and can cause side effects.

The good news: Many essential oils are safe for use during pregnancy when used correctly – diluted and in small amounts, they provide reliable relief from typical symptoms.

Using essential oils effectively to treat pregnancy symptoms

Relieve nausea naturally

Lemon and peppermint have been proven in studies and in practice to be soothing for morning sickness. Combined in the aroma blend "Nausea free" they have a particularly gentle effect.

Tip: Peppermint in a tube inhaler is safe during all stages of pregnancy. However, breastfeeding women should avoid it, as it inhibits milk flow.

Treating headaches during pregnancy naturally

The Stay Healthy: Clear Head Roll-on contains a gentle dilution of peppermint and can be applied specifically to the neck and temples.

Relieve back tension naturally

For a soothing massage, combine 10 ml of almond or St. John's wort oil with:

  • 2 drops of fine lavender
  • 2 drops of cajeput

...and massage into the back or legs (not the stomach).

Refreshment for heavy legs

The organic peppermint plant water from the refrigerator provides instant refreshment. From the fourth month onwards, the Light Legs Refreshing Gel is also a suitable choice.

Natural help for respiratory problems

Mild oils such as:

  • Lavender
  • Cajeput
  • Thyme Linalool
  • Ho Leaf (aka Chinese Rosewood or Ho-Sho)

...may be used as a rub, inhalation or in an inhaler tube, used according to the dosage table.

Anxiety, sleep problems & emotional support

Anxiety and sleep problems

Lavender oil helps reduce stress and anxiety and has relaxing and sleep-promoting properties. Bergamot, mandarin orange, and neroli (orange blossom) are also comforting and calming. 

Skin care and stretch marks

Now is the time to pamper yourself with some pampering. Jojoba oil and almond oil support skin elasticity, prevent stretch marks, and can be delicately scented with the essential oils mentioned above (e.g., fine lavender, bergamot, red mandarin orange, or neroli). The new Womanhood Stretch Mark Care Oil is a practical option. Before applying the oil, moisten the skin with organic plant water to lock in the moisture. Soothing chamomile, stress-relieving orange blossom, or harmonizing rose petal water provide valuable active ingredients in addition to their fragrance.

Perineal massage oil

Perineal massage is an effective method for preparing for birth to loosen the tissue in the perineal area and increase flexibility for birth.

For a helpful perineal massage oil, add 2 drops of fine lavender essential oil and 1 drop of Roman chamomile to 50ml of almond oil. Gently swirl to mix. Wash your hands thoroughly before massaging. Place your thumb on the outer sides of the perineal area (between the vulva and anus) and massage downward and sideways with gentle pressure. Now insert your thumb a few centimeters into the vagina and stretch the perineal area in a U-shape with your thumb, pulling outward while continuing to massage the tissue. The massage and stretching should be bearable.

From the 36th week of pregnancy, massage several times a week with increasing intensity, for 5–10 minutes. As a preparation, we recommend a hayflower steam sit bath or yoni steaming with jasmine, lavender, neroli, or the "Mood Lift" aroma blend starting in the 36th week of pregnancy.


Caution should be exercised with the following essential oils throughout pregnancy:

Angelica, anise, basil, Douglas fir, eucalyptus globulus, sweet fennel, blue chamomile, pine needle, coriander seed, lemongrass, bay leaf, lemon balm, clary sage, clove bud, niaouli, oregano, osmanthus, rosemary, sage, saro, yarrow, thyme thymol, violet leaves, verbena, vetiver, juniper berry, wintergreen, hyssop, cedarwood, cinnamon bark.

Some of these oils have hormonal properties, others are uterotonic, and some may be used when under strict instruction by experts – but not within the scope of this general recommendation. 

Most finished farfalla products, such as all cosmetics, AromaCare body oils, bubble baths, etc., can be used safely during pregnancy. The exceptions are Womanhood products with clary sage and the Belly Balance Soothing Stomach massage oil, as abdominal massages are not recommended. Good to know: Most finished farfalla products are suitable for use during pregnancy. Exceptions are products with clary sage and the Belly Balance Soothing Stomach massage oil.

Important information about essential oils during pregnancy

(mandatory for farfalla as a manufacturer)

Do not use aromatherapy during the first 3 months of pregnancy or on the stomach; seek advice from your midwife, doctor, or pharmacist.

Inspiration for your wellbeing