Essential Oils and Women's Health

By Holly Dunbar, CMT, RH (AGH)

New Moon Body Work and Botanicals

. http://www.newmoonbody.com

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Essential Oils and Women's Health

Essential oils are concentrated natural substances distilled from plants, and are widely used in the food, cosmetic, pharmaceutical, and natural health care industries. Essential oils are mostly external applications to be applied to the body or inhaled.

Their small molecular structure and lipid attracting qualities make these external applications quite effective in easing many common ailments. Several oils have a particular affinity for addressing the unique needs of women.

Clary Sage is particularly effective in easing PMS symptoms, difficult menstruation, and menopausal complaints, including hot flashes. This complex oil is rich in phyto-estrogens, plant-based estrogens that have a balancing effect on the hormones.

It can help ease cramps and bloating, cool hot flashes, and ease anxiety and depression. It is considered an euphoric oil, and was once added to beer and wine to increase its inebriating effects, and is still an additive to some cigarettes for flavor and effect.

Fennel is another herb rich in phyto-estrogens, and the oil is even more concentrated. This oil is an excellent digestive aid as well, easing hyper-acidity, indigestion, gas, and abdominal pain. It is a great oil or herb to have on hand post-partum, as it promotes milk production and eases colic in the baby. It also has diuretic properties, and can be helpful in weight loss and to break up cellulite.

A very sweet, floral scent, geranium is to be noted for its help in easing PMS symptoms, and easing depression and anxiety. Although a heavy scent, it blends very well with lighter oils. This oil is also essential in skin care, as it nourishes dry skin and is very anti-inflammatory for irritated skin.

To use these oils, one would need to dilute them first for proper application. They can be mixed with a quality vegetable oil for massage and skin care, and also added to the bath. One could also mix them with water to use as a spray. The more direct the application, the more effective they will be. If one is looking to address menstrual cramps, for example, applying them on the lower abdomen will yield the quickest results.