26 Jul Aromatherapy for PMS and Period Troubles
“That time of the month” is one of the most dreaded phases for many people because of the discomfort and pain that accompanies menstruation. It’s not for nothing that people have variously nicknamed the phenomenon ‘the curse’ or ‘the red badge of courage’, ‘shark week’, or ‘girl flu’. In this article we hope to introduce you to easy ways in which you can use essential during your period and for PMS.
But before that let us understand a little about period pain and PMS.
Why do we experience discomfort during periods?
Menstrual cramps are more common than you think. The hormone prostaglandin triggers muscle contractions in the uterus. This causes inflammation and pain. The pain is usually concentrated in and around the lower abdomen, but can extend to the lower back, thighs, and legs at times. Dizziness, nausea, and headaches are other common symptoms.
Many people get relief by using a heating pad on their pelvic area, taking a warm bath, or taking pain relief medication.
What is PMS?
PMS or Premenstrual Syndrome refers to a group of symptoms that people experience. These range from mood swings, tender breasts, tiredness, and irritability. While we still don’t understand the cause of PMS fully, hormonal changes in the body are primarily responsible for it.
Both period pain as well as PMS can be alleviated by various measures. Regular exercise, a healthy, nutritious diet, as well as vitamins and supplements can go a long way in keeping PMS and period discomfort at bay.
How can essential oils help with period pain and PMS?
Aromatherapy and essential oils have wide-ranging uses and typically are great for relieving stress and anxiety. These potent gifts of nature induce a feeling of overall well-being and relaxation. It isn’t surprising that many people find essential oils very helpful for combating symptoms of PMS or discomfort during periods.
Here is a list of essential oils that are great buddies for your visit from Aunt Flo.
Essential oils for PMS
Anywhere between ten days to a week before your period starts, PMS can rear its ugly head. Counter the fatigue and lack of motivation by using these essential oils.
Peppermint
Peppermint is a refreshing and reinvigorating oil that can uplift your spirits. Inhaling it from the bottle or diffusing it can help if you are feeling down in the dumps because of your hormones playing havoc.
You can even dilute 1-2 drops of Peppermint essential oil with a small quantity of jojoba oil and dab it on your pulse points to feel comforted and relaxed.
Ylang Ylang
This essential oil is believed to have aphrodisiac properties, so you can imagine the effect it would have at a time when you aren’t in the mood for anything. Diffuse Ylang Ylang essential oil and feel your mood take a turn for the better. This particular essential oil is particularly effective in reducing feelings of tiredness and sadness.
You can also combine 2 drops of Ylang Ylang and Lavender essential oils with 2 tablespoons of coconut oil and massage your neck, shoulders, and back as this is where we typically carry a lot of tension.
Essential oils for period cramps and discomfort
Once the ‘crimson tide’ has set in, it brings with it pain that can be dull or sharp. Nausea and headaches are also common for many. Overall, it isn’t the best time physically and one can do with all the relief and support available.
Here are some essential oils we recommend to help you during ‘shark week’.
Lavender
With its soothing and enticing fragrance, it comes as no surprise that Lavender can make you feel comforted during your period cramps. A warm bath with a few drops of lavender can help you feel calmer and more relaxed.
Some people even find relief by using Lavender diluted with slightly warm coconut oil and gently massaging the lower back or abdomen.
Clary Sage
Clary Sage essential oil is known for promoting deep relaxation and calmness. If you’re having trouble falling asleep because of period discomfort, try diffusing Clary Sage as it soothes the senses and makes it easy to let go and relax. Sleep is of course the best medicine, so the more you are able to rest, the better you will feel.
You can even make a warm compress with a few drops of this oil diluted with a carrier oil of your choice. Place it on your abdomen or lower back and rest.
Eucalyptus
The cooling and energizing Eucalyptus essential oil is useful for various purposes. The least of them is not helping reduce feelings of nausea. Many also diffuse Eucalyptus oil to get some relief from the annoying headaches that often accompany Aunt Flo.
Combining Eucalyptus essential oil with a few drops of Lavender and coconut oil and massaging the thighs, legs, and lower back can help with severe cramps and pain.
To sum up…
There is no one way to use essential oils for relief from PMS or period discomfort. Feel free to experiment and try your own blends that bring you succour and relaxation. Also throw in some good music and a beverage of your choice and transform that week of woe into some well-deserved ‘me-time’.
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