Is Fennel & Anise Oils safe during pregnancy?
Anethole-rich oils with estrogen-like effects. A review advises avoiding them by any route in pregnancy and breastfeeding.
What the sources say
A 2021 review on essential oils in pregnancy says anethole-rich oils such as sweet fennel and anise should be avoided by any route during pregnancy and breastfeeding because anethole has estrogen-like activity and may affect uterine contractions. Small amounts used as food flavoring are a different exposure. Choose fragrance-free products if unsure.
Also listed as
anethole, anise oil, aniseed oil, fennel oil, foeniculum vulgare (fennel) oil, foeniculum vulgare oil, illicium verum oil, pimpinella anisum oil, star anise oil, sweet fennel oil, trans-anethole
Sources
Last reviewed . This is general information, not medical advice. Ask your doctor or midwife about your own situation.