What essential oils can be useful for menopause?
Whether looking for natural remedies for hot flushes or essential oils for hormone balancing, many aromatherapists believe it’s helpful to try essential oils. Here are some essential oils that experts believe assist with the relief of symptoms:
Essential oils for hormone balancing
Menopause brings hormonal changes that can leave you feeling anxious and depressed. Essential oils can help balance your hormones and ease symptoms. The top essential oils for hormone balance include:
Geranium – known for its soothing and uplifting with a floral scent
Basil – contains phytoestrogen, which assists with restoring hormonal balance
Lavender – one of the most popular essential oils; lavender is used to relieve stress and promote overall wellbeing
Essential oils for mood swings
Those experiencing menopause may feel depressed, anxious or generally irritable. There are some essential oils which can help with balancing emotions. The top essential oils for mood swings are:
Clary Sage – contains natural phytoestrogens, which help mimic the effects of estrogen
Jasmine – this fresh floral yet warming essential oil is known to uplift the mood and help reduce anxiety
Lavender – again, this well-rounded essential oil works nicely to improve moods and relax the mind
Essential oils for hot flushes and night sweats
In addition to the upset with hormones, menopause sufferers may experience hot flushes and night sweats. These can come on suddenly, so having some natural remedies to hand can help. The top essential oils for hot flushes are:
Peppermint – an instant burst of coolness from peppermint works wonders during a hot flush
Ylang Ylang – commonly used to help balance your hormones, resulting in fewer hot flushes
Basil – this hormone-balancing essential oil is known to aid hot flushes and is packed with goodness
Essential oils for menopause weight gain
Some women may lose weight during menopause; some find they gain weight. For those who do, this can be upsetting and stressful, particularly if you have never had weight which fluctuates. Some of the most recommended essential oils to help with weight gain during menopause are:
Juniper Berry – packed full of antioxidant properties, many believe juniper berry essential oil can be used to help maintain body weight.
Grapefruit – this refreshing fruit is known to help kick start your metabolism, and many use it in the form of essential oil during menopause.
Peppermint – it is claimed that regular inhalation of peppermint oil reduces appetite and food cravings.
Essential oils for sleep
Sleep can be one of the most affected areas concerning menopause. Lack of sleep can be caused by many other symptoms such as night sweats and mood swings. The good news is that essential oils can significantly ensure a good night’s rest. The top essential oils for sleep during menopause include:
Chamomile – often used in aromatherapy, chamomile essential oil is soothing and may help improve depressive moods.
Lavender – supports the nervous system to relax, regulates sleep processes and is often used to create positive feelings for the mind and body.
Frankincense – a woody essential oil with spicy undertones often used as a natural remedy for people with insomnia
Menopause comes with a wide range of symptoms, emotional reactions and levels of discomfort that you may find other essential oils work better for you. Some of the more popular essential oils for common symptoms include:
For concentration – Rosemary, Sage, Peppermint and Eucalyptus
For dry skin – Chamomile, Rose Geranium, Myrrh and Sandalwood
For thinning hair – Peppermint, Red Thyme, Cedarwood and Lemon
If you are considering using natural remedies and essential oils to manage the symptoms of your menopause, it is strongly recommended to consult your GP first.