mothers! It is essential during a woman’s pregnancy that she is well cared-for, physically
and emotionally and that includes good spinal health. Mamas, don’t let the human that
you’re carrying cause unnecessary pain or discomfort. Their wellbeing depends on yours!
You may have noticed on your last visit that Rushmore Family Chiropractic is now carrying
the Young Living Essential Oil lines. We find that essential oils can be a wonderful tool in
your health and wellness practice along with medical and chiropractic care. Some of our
patients use particular oils at the time of their scheduled adjustment. This can help them
feel at-ease and to relax their muscle tissues (allowing for easier spinal manipulation).
Essential oils can also be used just following your chiropractic adjustment, helping to
minimize any residual tenderness and soreness.
The application of particular oils can also increase blood circulation. Their chemical
structure allows essential oils to be easily absorbed into the blood stream when applied to
the skin. And some of the oils we carry simply have a positive scent for our patients,
helping them to relax and put themselves into our capable hands!
We have worked with a number of expectant women in our chiropractic care and there are
particular essential oils that may be of benefit for them. These include:
Sage/Clary Sage
Hyssop
Fennel
Wintergreen
But today we’re going to talk about the use of one particular essential oil in treating
pregnant women: Frankincense!
Frankincense, also known as Boswellia Carterii, is an aromatic resin that is harvested from
trees primarily in Somalia, in North Africa. Frankincense has been used for thousands of
years as perfume, aromatherapy and in religious ceremonies. It has been used in Ayurvedic
Medicine in India as treatment for arthritis, wound healing and for women’s fertility.
In Iran up to 30% of pregnant women use frankincense during labor. It is known for its
pain-reducing or sedative effect. They often rub the oil on their lower backs or abdomens
to lessen their labor pains. Frankincense has an earthy scent that many laboring moms find
comforting. We do recommend that you test out any essential oil in advance of your
delivery so that you know if it causes any reaction or unpleasantness first.
A 2016 study published in the “International Journal of Preventative Medicine” reported
that “oral administration of Boswellia extract during pregnancy and lactation strengthens
short- and long-term memory in infants”. There are tons of research studies out there
showing the effectiveness of many essential oils for pregnant women including
Frankincense.
If you’re looking for ways to supplement your health and wellbeing before or during giving
birth, please ask your chiropractor for a recommendation for essential oil! Rushmore
Family Chiropractic has open sample bottles of many of our essential oils for you to test
and enjoy.
