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Aromatherapy/inhaling tiger balm during pregnancy

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Expert: - 11/12/2008


Question
I am 17 weeks pregnant and to relieve congestion from a cold have been inhaling tiger balm (applied to a tissue) for a week or so.  I have just been advised this should not be done by a friend and am now very worried about any effects this mave had on my baby.  Can it have done any harm?  The only information i have been able to find out about tiger balm in pregnancy is in relation to rubbing it into the skin.  Can you advise?

Answer
Hello Jemima - I think you would have had to be inhaling massive amounts for your baby to notice it. As you say - it's not recommended for massage at your stage of pregnancy as it is absorbed into the system when you massage and Tiger Balm is quite a harsh mixture of very strong oils. Whilst I don't think there's any harm in your inhaling some infused Tiger Balm to relieve congestion, I would  probably go for something a little more gentle, like lavender oil for inhaling. This will clear the sinuses and also relax you.
Best wishes for a happy and safe pregnancy
Judy

Aromatherapy

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Judy Frayne

Expertise

I specialise in the mixing of oils. Every problem has a different solution depending on the underlying causes.A simple headache could be caused for a number of different reasons. Tracking down the origins of a problem is the first step. I can then advise on the correct oils to use,how to buy them and the methods with which they can be applied. I can also recommend other complimentary techniques for self help with many physical and emotional problems. Feel free to ask about: Skin disorders - eczema, psoriasis,atheletes foot Muscular aches and pains - arthritis, neck and shoulder tension. Painkilling - headaches, chronic pain, backache. Digestive disorders - IBS, constipation. Stress - depression, anxiety, grief, anger, concentration. Medicine cupboard - bites, stings, cuts, bruises,burns. Babies and childrens - tummy aches, colds, sleep problems. And many more !

Experience

I have been a qualified aromatherapist for twelve years, working in my own premises as well as mobile visiting. My clients have been varied - ranging from babies to the elderly and sadly,the terminally ill. Whilst many clients simply wish to use aromatherapy to promote a feeling of well being and keep themselves relaxed and healthy - I have had much experience of clients with specific needs. These are just as wide ranging - from skin disorders to back problems on the physical side - to the emotional and spiritual side of things and problems such as coping with grief and bereavement or helping combat anger and stress. I use a mixture of techniques including reflexology. I believe that aromatherapy is a very simple and natural method of self help that can compliment conventional techniques. I am passionate about passing on safe and sensible advice so that more people feel confident to try aromatherapy for themselves. Aromatherapy is not always a cure - but it's potency should never be underestimated. It can help, it can be life changing - and it's certainly worth trying

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