If you are looking for a natural way to relieve the pain of menstrual cramps, you may find some relief in using natural aromatherapy remedies. Inhaling the sweet fragrances is not the only way to benefit from aromatherapy. Infuse the oils into a warm bath or dilute them and use them to massage the belly, lower back or feet and heels.
Discomfort
Although many women experience only mild discomfort associated with menstrual cramps, some women suffer cramping pain that can be quite debilitating. Menstrual cramping is usually a normal symptom of a woman's monthly period, but for those women who also experience nausea, dizziness and pain extending into the lower back and legs, menstruation can be a dreaded time of month.
Causes
Menstrual cramps are generally described as a dull, aching or throbbing pain in the lower abdomen. Sometimes the pain radiates to the lower back and thighs. Women who produce higher levels of prostaglandin tend to suffer more severe cramping. Prostaglandin is a hormone that triggers muscle contractions of the uterus. Severe contractions can constrict blood flow to the uterus, which causes pain. Uterine fibroids, pelvic inflammatory disease, cervical stenosis and endometriosis are other causes of menstrual cramps. Aromatherapy and massage are two of the alternative treatment approaches on which many women rely to help alleviate the pain of menstrual cramping.
Essential Oils
Topical application of essential oils can be used to provide relief for severe menstrual cramps. Peppermint, lavender, chamomile, ginger, cypress and basil are some of the most effective. Other essential oils that can give relief for menstrual cramps include rosemary, sage and tarragon. Lemon, grapefruit and juniper may help relieve the bloating that some women experience along with cramping. According to the University of Maryland Medical Center, some small studies suggest that aromatherapy may be an alternative remedy that can ease the pain and discomfort of menstrual cramps. Rose, lavender and sage essential oils are applied to the affected areas to relieve painful menstrual cramps.
Recipes
Mix 12 drops of lavender oil, six drops of marjoram and four drops each of chamomile and ginger oils with 2 oz. of vegetable oil. This aromatherapy treatment may help soothe lower back pain that often accompanies menstrual cramps. Apply on the sore area several times throughout the day. Instead of vegetable oil, you may prefer to combine the essential oils with St. John's wort oil, an effective remedy for sore muscles.
Muscle Relaxants
Lavender, chamomile, ginger and lemon balm are essential oils, which contain natural muscle relaxants. Make a massage oil to rub gently over the abdominal area by mixing two or three drops of the essential oil of your choice into an ounce of sweet almond oil.
Warning
Because of their high concentration, some essential oils may cause skin irritation. Always dilute oils before applying to the skin. Pregnant women, individuals suffering from asthma or other allergies, and people with certain health conditions should ask their doctors first whether the use of essential oils for aromatherapy is safe for them.
Member Comments