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This oil has long been associated with alleviating menstrual discomfort and like me many women have used it for relief from irritation and pain.
In birthing contexts, its aroma and muscle-calming effects have made it a staple in natural birth practices.
In saying this, I always suggest women use it cautiously because it is very powerful and can be quite overwhelming if used in large quantities or in rooms that are not well ventilated – such as in the birthing suite.
Clary sage (Salvia sclarea) is a plant native to Italy, Syria and Southern France that thrives in dry soil. The essential oil is distilled from the flowers and flowering tops and is not to be confused with common sage, which is a different species altogether.
It’s rich in esters and has long been recognised for its therapeutic actions, including:
Antispasmodic (relieves cramping and spasms)
Antifungal and antiseptic
Sedative and calming
Warming and circulation-boosting
Nerve tonic
Some people describe feeling almost “high” after inhaling clary sage, while others report headaches if they use too much or for too long. This is why I usually suggest not putting it on your body during labour and recommend keeping it on a tissue, cotton ball or my favourite is on a cloth (like a Chux Superwipe), so you can smell it as needed and remove it if the aroma feels overpowering.
One of the most widespread myths is that clary sage can induce labour. The truth is:
It cannot force labour to begin unless your body is ready, but more importantly that your baby is ready because they are the ones that trigger the start of labour, so your body might be ready, but it is waiting for baby to initiate the next steps and create that perfect synergy of hormones for labour and birth. CLICK HERE
Research shows it can raise oxytocin levels, but this does not directly trigger uterine contractions.
What it does do is support relaxation, reduce stress hormones, and make your body more likely to go into labour spontaneously when the time is right.
Recent studies confirm what midwives and doulas have observed for decades:
Increased oxytocin without contractions – Pilot trials found clary sage inhalation raised oxytocin in term women but didn’t trigger labour contractions.
Pain relief and relaxation – Higher oxytocin levels were linked to improved comfort and reduced stress.
Mixed lab results – Some lab studies show uterine stimulation, while others highlight its antispasmodic (relaxing) effects. This shows the oil has complex actions, and why it must be used thoughtfully.
A 2017 pilot trial (n=11, women 38–40 weeks) found oxytocin increased in some participants following inhalation; however, no uterine contractions were observed in either the clary sage or control group. Cortisol levels also declined in both groups, suggesting a calming effect.
In vitro studies present mixed findings: aqueous extracts of clary sage showed contractile effects on mouse uterine tissue, suggesting potential to stimulate contractions—but essential oil components often exhibited antispasmodic (relaxing) properties. This underscores that the mechanism remains complex and not fully understood.
Oxytocin support in labour – Inhalation and footbaths (often combined with lavender) have been shown to support oxytocin release, relaxation and better coping during labour.
Here are the gentlest and most effective ways to use clary sage during labour and late pregnancy:
Inhalation – Add a drop or two to a tissue or cotton ball and breathe in when you need calm and focus.
Massage oil – Mix about 15 drops in 50ml carrier oil (~1% dilution) and gently massage around the hips, lower back and abdomen.
Reflex points – A drop on the inner ankle (Spleen 6 – SP6) may support oxytocin release and labour progress.
Cotton balls under your pillow – Helps with relaxation and sleep leading up to or during early labour.
Footbath – A few drops in warm water (with a dispersant like milk) can be calming and grounding.
Avoid adding essential oils to birthing pools or baths for labour – your baby’s skin and eyes are too sensitive.
Clary sage combines beautifully with:
Rose – softens ligaments and supports pelvic expansion
Neroli – calms the nervous system and encourages deep, easy breathing
Lavender – promotes circulation and relaxation
Together, these oils create a soothing blend for massage and aromatherapy in birth.
Avoid oral use (sometimes suggested in online forums, which is unsafe).
Do not use before 37 weeks unless advised otherwise.
Always dilute before skin application and patch test first.
Use in well-ventilated rooms to prevent headaches or nausea.
Remember: what works for one woman may not work for the next.
Clary sage is not a magic labour-inducer, but it is a wonderful friend for relaxation, pain relief, and emotional calm in the final weeks of pregnancy and throughout labour. When used safely and sparingly, it can help you breathe, focus, and allow your body to move into birth more smoothly.
As always, listen to your body, and work with your midwife or doula to decide how best to include clary sage in your birth toolkit.
For more information about using essential oils safely during pregnancy, labour and birth and beyond you can download my free Aromatherapy Used in Pregnancy, Labour, Birth & Postpartum.
https://www.mdpi.com/1660-4601/20/13/6262
https://bmcresnotes.biomedcentral.com/articles/10.1186/s13104-017-3053-3
https://www.phytojournal.com/archives/2021/vol10issue2/PartA/10-2-71-392.pdf
https://thehonestmidwife.co.uk/clary-sage-in-pregnancy-should-you-use-it-or-avoid-it
https://center6.umin.ac.jp/cgi-open-bin/ctr_e/ctr_view.cgi?recptno=R000023980
If you have any questions or would just like more information please don't hesitate to get in touch by clicking the button below and filling out the contact form.
Contact Vicki