Aromatherapy for PMS: Find Relief for Premenstrual Syndrome Symptoms Using Essential Oils

Aromatherapy for PMS is a natural healing method, which utilizes essential oils to support good health and wellbeing. Since essential oils work both through aroma (smelling) and through skin absorption, they are especially useful in easing PMS signs.

The term Premenstrual Syndrome refers to a range of physical and emotional symptoms which women experience during the monthly cycle. Since every woman is unique, symptoms can be different from month to month and can vary in intensity.

Some of the most common symptoms include:

• Nervous tension
• Headache or migraine
• Backache
• Abdominal cramps
• Bloating
• Breast tenderness
• Weight gain
• Fatigue
• Depression
• Food cravings

PMS Symptoms may start as early as two weeks before the onset of menstruation or not until just a few days before. Most women notice some relief as their period begins, but some symptoms can persist for a few more days.

Which Essential Oils are good for Premenstrual Syndrome?

The following essential oils are all good choices to relieve PMS symptoms. Each oil could be enjoyed on its own by just opening the bottle and inhaling or putting a drop onto a tissue and inhaling occasionally. Read on for a few other aromatherapy methods. It is recommended to begin aromatherapy treatment a few days before symptoms are expected to start.

• Bergamot
• Clary Sage
• Frankincense
• Geranium
• Lavender

• Neroli
• Roman Chamomile
• Rose
• Sandalwood
• Ylang Ylang

Abdominal Massage for PMS Relief

Mix together 2 drops each of lavender, sandalwood and rose essential oils. Add that mixture into 4 tsp (20 ml) of grape seed or jojoba oil and massage gently onto the abdomen. It is a sensitive area so do not massage deeply, do not go beyond what is comfortable. Following up with a hot water bottle with cause the essential oils to absorb into the skin more quickly and therefore help tight muscles to relax.

A Warm Aromatherapy Bath to Soothe Jangled PMS Nerves

Here’s an easy method to ease premenstrual symptoms. Add a total of 8 drops of essential oils to warm bathwater or unscented bubble bath. Some good choices are bergamot, roman chamomile and geranium. Soak for around 15 minutes, and then curl up in cozy clothes or a warm bed. Resting supports the healing process.

Tight on Time? Opt for a Foot Bath Using Essential Oils

A foot bath can sometimes have as much of a beneficial effect on PMS symptoms as a full body bath. So, if time is short, add 2 drops each of ylang-ylang and geranium essential oils to a foot bath and soak for around 10 minutes. The water will smell heavenly, so add some deep breathing to ease nervous tension.

The symptoms which accompany Premenstrual Syndrome can be troubling and exhausting. Aromatherapy is a beautiful, gentle method to ease both physical and emotional discomfort. Allowing time for personal pampering, relaxing and turning the energy inward gives relief to body and mind.

A Few Cautions

This article is not intended as a replacement for professional medical advice. Consult a doctor if PMS symptoms are causing concern. Some essential oils may stain clothing or skin, always test a small area first. Pregnant women, infants and children should only use essential oils under the supervision of a trained aromatherapist. Do not use essential oils on open wounds. Do not use internally. Avoid contact with eyes or mucous membranes.