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. By
Judy Lausch
