Aromatherapy
If you aren’t interested in prescribed medications to help you manage your symptoms, you might consider alternative solutions. Some essential oils have been found to provide relief when applied on different areas of the body.
These oils come from many different plant sources and can often be found in their natural form. They’re also available in forms ready for immediate application, such as oils or creams.
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Essential oils are used in aromatherapy. The essence of these oils is meant to be inhaled (directly or through a diffuser) or diluted and applied to the skin. Essential oils should not be ingested.
These six essential oils may help relieve your symptoms:
1. Clary sage
Menopausal women can find natural relief from hot flashes - sudden, intense feelings of body-wide heat - by rubbing a few drops of diluted clary sage oil onto the back of the neck or the soles of the feet. For even faster relief, adding a few drops of clary sage oil to a tissue or napkin and gently inhaling the vapors allows the oil to be absorbed through the nose, potentially producing antidepressant-like effects. Clary sage may also help slow the progression of osteoporosis, a common concern during menopause as declining oestrogen levels cause bone breakdown to outpace new bone formation, increasing the risk of the condition.
2. Peppermint
Peppermint oil may help reduce discomfort from hot flashes. Simply add no more than two drops to a tissue, then hold it to your nose and breathe slowly. This oil may also relieve any cramping during perimenopause. While cramping is less common after menstruation ends, some women continue to experience it, even after their periods have ceased completely. Persistent cramping in this case could signify an underlying medical condition, so it's best to consult your doctor if you experience this.
3. Lavender
Lavender may help balance hormones and soothe perineal discomfort. If the perineal area feels tight or uncomfortable, apply a cold compress. For added relief, add a drop of diluted lavender oil to the compress. Use the compress for up to 30 minutes, but remove it if you experience stinging or burning, and rinse the area with water. Lavender can also promote relaxation and improve sleep quality. During this time, insomnia and other sleep issues are common, so consider incorporating lavender aromatherapy into your nighttime routine.
Clary sage may also help slow the progression of osteoporosis, a common concern during menopause
4. Geranium
Geranium essential oil has been shown to help menopausal women manage hormonal changes. Inhaling 1-2 drops from a napkin can provide immediate stress relief. The oil is also beneficial for treating dry skin - try adding a few diluted drops to a relaxing, hot bath. Furthermore, research indicates that geranium essential oil has anti-anxiety and antidepressant properties.
5. Basil
Basil aromatherapy may help increase oestrogen levels and improve mood. For relief from hot flashes, try diluting basil oil and applying it to your feet or the back of your neck.
6. Citrus
Citrus oil aromatherapy has been found to provide a range of health benefits for women experiencing menopause. A 2014 study showed that postmenopausal women who inhaled citrus essential oils reported fewer physical symptoms and increased sexual desire. Additionally, the participants experienced a decrease in systolic blood pressure, improved pulse rate, and higher oestrogen concentrations. Citrus oils also have anti-inflammatory properties, which may help alleviate aches and pains common during menopause. However, it's important to use caution, as citrus oils can make skin more sensitive to sunlight. Dilute citrus oils before applying topically and avoid direct sun exposure.​​
Research indicates that geranium essential oil has anti-anxiety and antidepressant properties
To safely use essential oils, it's important to follow the instructions carefully. These oils can be harmful if applied directly to the skin, so you must dilute them with a carrier oil first. Good carrier oil options include coconut, jojoba, and olive oils. A general guideline is to mix 30ml of carrier oil with 12 drops of essential oil.
Before doing a full application, always perform a patch test. Apply the diluted oil to a small area of skin, like the inside of your arm, and wait 24 hours to check for any irritation or inflammation. If there is a reaction, do not use the oil. If there is no reaction, it should be safe to use the full application.
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When using an essential oil in a spray, make sure you're in a well-ventilated area.
