Essential Oils for Menopause

Using Aromatherapy for Hot Flashes and Mood Swings

I left work early today. I didn’t feel sick exactly but I was exhausted, had a headache and cramps and was more than a little surly.  It didn’t occur to me until I got home that I might be experiencing symptoms of menopause. I’m still a little young, chronologically speaking (47), for menopause, but lately my periods have been irregular (very unusual for me) and accompanied by debilitating cramps and extreme tiredness. In the past I’ve used chamomile and lavender oil to treat menstrual cramps -- these oils are generally very soothing; they relieve pain and help me rest. But as my symptoms are becoming more pronounced and since I’m just now realizing what I might be experiencing, I’m researching essential oils that are specifically focused on menopause.

Top Essential Oils For Menopause:

Essential oils that are great for hormonal balance include clary sage, anise, fennel, cypress, angelica, coriander, geranium and sage. 10-20 drops of any of these oils in your bathwater can help relieve your symptoms. After your bath, you can use this recipe:

2 drops Clary Sage

1 drop Geranium

1 drop Neroli

1 ounce carrier oil (Evening Primrose, Grapeseed or our own Luxury Massage oil are all good choices).

Mix all ingredients well and gently massage into your lower back and abdomen.

To help relieve hot flashes, Peppermint, Geranium, Lemon and Sage essential oils are all very cooling. Use a few drops in your bathwater or lotion (be sure to mix well if using lotion). Peppermint essential oil especially has an immediate cooling effect. A lukewarm foot bath with a few drops of peppermint oil is also very relaxing and cooling.

I have a feeling that emotional imbalance is going to be a struggle for me. I remember my mom’s emotional ups and downs during menopause and can already see similarities in my own experiences. Chamomile is already in my aromatherapy toolkit, but I’m now adding clary sage and bergamot.  A couple of drops of any (or all, blended together) of these essential oils in a candle diffuser in the evening before bed usually does the trick for me.  A portable aromatherapy Inhaler is a handy accessory that you can easily carry in your purse or the car’s glove compartment for when your mood decides to take you on a roller coaster ride.

And don’t forget lavender! Right now, I’m going to put a few drops of Lavender on my hankie, put it under my pillow and take a well-deserved nap . . . .

Disclaimer: The information provided here is for educational purposes only, and not intended to treat, prescribe, cure, or diagnose any disease or condition. This information is not intended as a substitute for consulting with your physician or other health care provider. Dreaming Earth Botanicals is not responsible for any adverse effects resulting from the use of any of the suggestions, preparations, or procedures discussed. All matters pertaining to your physical health should be supervised by a health care professional. Keep all aromatherapy products out of reach of children.