Essential Oils for Your Period
When your period comes around, you may experience some unpleasant symptoms: pain and cramping, bloating, headaches and backaches, mood swings, anxiety and tiredness (just to name a few). The question is, how do you find relief? Many women find essential oils to be a gentle and natural approach, and in this blog post we'll discuss some of our favorite oils and methods.
Our Favorite Oils for PMS and Cramps:
Lavender
Lavender essential oil is well-known for its scrumptious aroma and its relaxing properties. And some research suggests that it might also be helpful in relieving menstrual cramps!
One study from 2012 tested whether a lavender oil aromatherapy massage had any effect on dysmenorrhea (i.e. menstrual cramps). The results concluded that those participants who received the lavender massage experienced decreased menstrual pain (when compared with the participants who received a “placebo massage” with no lavender oil).
Another study in 2013 produced similar results. Researchers found that pre-menstrual women who massaged their abdominal area with a blend of lavender, clove, cinnamon and rose essential oils in a base of sweet almond oil once a day experienced less pain than women in the placebo group. The women who used aromatherapy also experienced less bleeding than the women in the placebo group.
Clary Sage
With its deliciously warm, herbaceous scent, Clary Sage essential oil has a generally uplifting effect. Clary Sage is another one of our favorite oils for promoting relaxation and easing tension. Furthermore, some studies have shown Clary Sage to have antidepressant properties. Another study in 2000 found that Clary Sage can decrease pain from cramping.
Ylang Ylang
Ylang Ylang essential oil has a rich, floral aroma and has also been found to ease some of the symptoms of PMS. This oil is well known for its antidepressant properties and many find it to be helpful for mood changes.
One study in 2006 found that Ylang Ylang essential oil significantly decreased stress levels in the participants. Subjects exposed to Ylang Ylang showed a decrease in blood pressure and a significant increase of skin temperature. They also described themselves as feeling calmer and more relaxed.
Ylang Ylang essential oil has also been known to have antispasmodic properties, which can help relieve cramping and discomfort.
Lavender, Clary Sage and Ylang Ylang are just three of the many essential oils that we find helpful. Others include bergamot, geranium, peppermint and frankincense.
How do I use essential oils for my menstrual cycle?
Massage Blend: Dilute about 6 or 7 drops of essential oil in 15 ml of carrier oil (jojoba is a popular choice, or check out our massage base) to create a soothing massage blend for your abdomen. You can experiment with a few of the oils discussed above, or use some of your own favorites.
Here's one of my go-to massage blends:
1 ounce massage base
2 drops Ylang Ylang essential oil
4 drops Clary Sage
4 drops Lavender essential oil
Diffuser: Using essential oils in a diffuser is always a great option! You’ll reap the benefits of whichever essential oil you choose-- and your home will smell great, too!
Bath: Add several drops of essential oil (diluted in a carrier oil so as to disperse the essential oils evenly in the water) to a warm bath and soak for at least 25 minutes. The benefits of the essential oil will be absorbed through your skin, and the heat from the bath will help sooth achy, crampy muscles! If you don’t have a bath tub, try making a warm compress with essential oils and place it over your abdomen.
Have you used essential oils for your period? Which are your favorites and how do you use them?
Sources:
http://www.painmanagementnursing.org/article/S1524-9042(10)00067-6/abstract
https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pubmed/20441789
https://www.koreamed.org/SearchBasic.php?DT=1&RID=0094JKAAN%2F2001.13.3.420
https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pubmed/16807875
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.