The Menopause is regarded as a time of transition which involves changes within women’s hormonal levels which can cause debilitating physical and emotional symptoms such as hot flashes, anxiety, forgetfulness, difficulty sleeping and low energy. Lifestyle choices and if desired medical treatment such as in the form of hormone replacement therapy (HRT) can be very helpful, but some women find that the incorporation of Aromatherapy essential oils can be very useful and may find that it contributes to their well-being.
Can Essential Oils help
The changes and symptoms which occur during the menopause stem from hormonal fluctuations but an individuals lifestyle together with stress and anxiety can contribute to difficulties coping with the challenges of life.
Hormonal factors
Essential oils are plant-based, and some contain phytoestrogens which are plant-based substances that behave in a similar way to the hormone oestrogen. Research evidence is limited but some studies may indicate that phytoestrogens may help to balance hormones and bring relief to symptoms such as hot flashes and mood disturbances.
Small research studies have indicated that the following essential oils may support hormone balance:
Clary sage – may help to boost mood
Geranium – Calming and hormone balancing
Rose – Helps to promote relaxation
Neroli – Reduces anxiety and helps to improve sleep
lavender – Helps to reduce stress, low mood and anxiety
Jasmine – Boosts mood and reduces low mood
How To Use Essential Oils
Add 3-5 drops of your chosen essential oil into water and allow it to diffuse throughout a room. Depending on the essential oil, this can help promote relaxation during the day or it can be used just before bedtime to promote sleep.
Aromatherapy roller balls
A professional Aromatherapist can create a bespoke Aromatherapy roller ball targeted to your individual physical and emotional needs to help support a feeling of calm and relaxation, to improve concentration, or to provide some much needed nurturing self care. It is a good idea to keep a roller ball within your hand bag , at your desk or bedside and just simply roll it on to your pulse points and rub your hands together before inhaling.
Aromatherapy Inhalers
A professional Aromatherapist can create an Aromatherapy inhaler with a bespoke blend of organic essential oils to help support your health and wellbeing. Simply place the inhaler near to your nostrils and mindfully inhale the beautiful essential oils and feel calm, relaxed and grounded.
Aroma Reflexology
Aroma Reflexology is a wonderful bespoke treatment which combines a beautiful tailored blend of essential oils with a traditional foot Reflexology treatment. Reflexology has a wonderful cumulative effect on the mind and body and it can provide a supportive lifestyle coping tool to help ease and provide support during the transition to menopause and beyond. I work with my clients personal preferences when choosing essential oils but for example a blend of Lavender, Geranium and Bergamot may help to reduce anxiety, restore calm and a feeling of balance with life.