3 Essential oils that can help you combat Menstrual Cramps

I know, I know another blog about essential oils. I was like you too, I really was. It has taken me over four years to even TRY essential oils. I am not a person to tell you that it will cure EVERY ailment that you have. However, I am a person who is willing to try some things and report back to my readers if they worked for me or not.  I don't sell essential oils, I KNOW you know someone that does. When it comes to Essential oils you want to make sure that they are the best quality. Do your research and make sure they are therapeutic grade. Essential oils have been used for centuries, it was the medicine people took before you could drive to your local pharmacy and pick up whatever you needed. I have PCOS and with that comes cyst and lots of pain with my period. I remember growing up and falling over in class because my pain was so great. I was always carrying around OTC pain relievers because I never knew when my period would come and knock me off my feet(literally) I am all for finding a natural way to combat my pain when need be.

There are three ways that you can use essential oils :

Massage: This is the most direct route. Make sure to dilute EO of your choice with a carrier oil(I like to use almond or grapeseed oil, coconut oil is another choice as well) For instance when I use lavender oil, I dilute a drop or two with a carrier oil and then massage on my lower abdomen for pain relief.

Aromatherapy: You can drop a few drops of the essential oils in a diffuser or if you don't have a diffuser you can drop a few drops in a nice hot shower. Instant spa.

Ingesting:  If you are ingesting make sure that the essential oils are therapeutic grade and that they can be ingested. you can put them in your tea(a drop of lavender is so soothing)

Now,  there plenty of oils out there that can help you ease the pain and discomfort of your period. I am going to name three of my favorite ones.

Lavender 

This oil has anti-inflammatory properties. It's one of my favorite oils to use for PMS and menstrual cramps. Your uterus is contracting and expanding to get the lining on your uterine walls out. This can cause discomfort and make your muscles feel inflamed. Lavender is a natural muscle relaxer.  In a 2012 study it was shown that those who used lavender to massage did report less cramping than the placebo group(find the study here)

True story, I was on a trip and there was not a pain reliever in sight. A friend of mine has really bad cramps as well and all I happened to pack some lavender EO with me. She was skeptical but when she used it she said that she was shocked that it helped ease her cramps. I am telling you, this one is my favorite of all time for menstrual cramps.

Clary Sage

This oil is a calming oil and is great to mix with lavender when you want to relieve pain. It can also help reduce your cortisol levels which means less stress, and it naturally relaxes and calms you. Did you know that for some women use this when in labor to combat stress, discomfort and to help them relax? That is how awesome an oil this is.

Peppermint

During your period your hormones can fluctuate and leave you feeling fatigued. Peppermint essential oil can help alleviate headaches, inflammation and give you the energy boost you need. When applied to a certain area, peppermint oil helps to numb the sensation of pain and help the muscle relax, relieving cramps and tightness.

As with anything please check with your doctor. These products are not intended to diagnose, treat, cure or prevent any disease. If you are pregnant, nursing, taking medication, or have a medical condition, consult your physician before using these products.his information is not intended to diagnose, treat, cure or prevent any disease. The information on this site is not intended or implied to be a substitute for professional medical advice, diagnosis or treatment. Please confirm any information obtained from or through this website with other sources, and review all information regarding any medical condition or treatment with your physician. Never disregard professional medical advice or delay seeking medical treatment because of something you have read on this website.