Eucalyptus Oil & Pregnancy: Risks and Concerns - Expert Advice

Question
I am 16 1/2 weeks pregnant and have had an extremely sore throat and have taken Fishermans friend cough drops.  They have eucalyputus oil in them and I understand that this is somenthing not recommended for pregnant ones.  I am usually so careful about taking ANYTHING but I wasn't even thinking when I took this and now I am very concerned.  I have taken apx. 6 tablets within the last 2 days.  Earlier in my pregnacy I took a few also.  What complications could this have caused?     Thank you

Answer
Hello Brenda-I think you can relax, my sources say that eucalyptus oil is just fine during pregnancy and they even suggest breathing in the vapors for congestion. For your sore throat, try warm salt water gargles-1/4 tsp salt to 1/4 cup warm water- gargle 3-10 times every 2-3hours. It will help a great deal.Also try placing a 250mg tablet of rose hips or a 100mg tablet of Vit. C in the back of your throat and keep it there until it dissovles. Repeat every hour as needed. Hope that helps- Cheri.