5 Super-Effective Essential Oils for PMS
Can we all just agree that PMS is the worst? Cramps, mood swings, and bloating can suck the fun right out of your week. For me, it seems like having babies opened up a whole new list of symptoms as well, like headaches, nausea, and “the period flu.”
I love using essential oils to fight Auntie Flow’s worst symptoms. My husband likes to poke fun at me, saying that my essential oils are some kind of ancient medicine woman cure, but science actually backs me up here. Studies have found that some essential oils balance hormones, relieve cramps, and decrease stress. That’s worth trying, right? In this post, we’re going talk about some of my favorite essential oils to relieve PMS symptoms, as well as where I like to buy them, and how I use them in practical, everyday life.
First off, where do I buy essential oils? Simply Earth. You literally cannot convince me to buy anywhere else.
I love this company because they’re family-owned, produce 100% pure, ethically-farmed, essential oils, and their price-point is amazing. I’m talking half the price as the Big Guys. (If you don’t believe me, go ahead and compare Simply Earth’s bottle of lavender to DoTERRA’s).
I also love that with every oil you purchase, 13% of those profits go to a nonprofit organization fighting against human trafficking. I wrote an official review of Simply Earth here, if you want to check them out in more detail.
5 “Essential” Essential Oils for PMS Relief!
Lavender
This is the OG of all essential oils, and my go-to. Lavender is known for its mood-boosting effects. One study suggested that it can lower postpartum depression, another minimize pain, and yet another says it can help with insomnia.
Best of all, studies suggest that it’s safe for kids, so I can confidently diffuse it without having to worry about them.
Clary Sage
This is such an interesting oil. Clary sage is composed of a compound called sclareol, which actually mimics the effects of estrogen. Studies have found that it can reduce cortisol, improve menopause symptoms, and ease menstrual cramps when applied topically.
I also love the scent of clary sage. It’s similar to the sage you might use in cooking, but slightly more floral.
Marjoram
Another common name in the kitchen! If PMS gives you digestive issues, marjoram is a great essential oil to try. Marjoram eases muscle cramps (menstrual and stomach cramps), and has been shown to relieve stomach ulcers.
Do you have PCOS as well? There hasn’t been a ton of research done on the topic yet, but one study found that women who drank marjoram tea experienced improved PCOS symptoms.
Spearmint
I love, love, love spearmint because it’s not usually the type of essential oil you’d consider for stress relief. It packs a powerful punch because it has a calming effect and inspires creativity (something I desperately need most days!).
In one study, women drank spearmint tea for 21 days. At the end of this period, they displayed lower testosterone levels and higher estradiol levels. Sweet! Aside from balancing your hormones, spearmint can also help with headaches.
Ginger
I don’t know about you, but I always experience nausea close to my period. I never know if I’m pregnant or PMSing! Ginger is so helpful in relieving that! You can dilute it with a carrier oil and apply it to your pulse points, or diffuse in your diffuser.
Ginger is also a good option to relieve PMS symptoms that center around pelvic and stomach cramps. Ginger contains an ingredient gingerol, which can encourage efficient digestion.
Essential Oil Blends for PMS
Okay, the following blends are exclusive to Simply Earth, but I’ve really enjoyed using them in the past. If you’ve been wanting to try out some oils but you’re not sure whether or not you’ll enjoy the scent, then these blends are a good option. They smell and work great!
Ladies Choice Blend
Clary Sage, Marjoram, Geranium, and Lavender. That’s right, Ladies Choice is composed of three out of four essential oils I recommended in this post! Geranium is fantastic skin-care oil. It will help you knock-out those acne breakouts. It’s an anti-inflammatory, antiseptic, and antimicrobial.
Good Vibes
Lavender, Lemon, Ho Wood, Geranium, and Clary Sage. Good Vibes smells diiiiivine…
Ho wood, like lavender, reduces stress and increases a sense of calm. Lemon is also known for its antidepressant effects. And, what smells more fresh than lemon?
How to Use Essential Oils to Relieve Pre-Menstrual Symptoms
Typically, I diffuse oils in my handy diffuser or I mix with a carrier oil (most of the time fractionated coconut oil) and apply to my pulse points. If I’m using an oil that isn’t suggested for kids or pets, I also apply directly to my skin.
I also own an essential oil inhaler that allows me to breathe in the oils!
I’m sure you already know this, but DO NOT EVER INGEST ESSENTIAL OILS.
Below I’ll post a roll-on recipe. Just so you know, I got all this stuff from Simply Earth’s monthly subscription box. It’s only $45 and includes 4 oils, 6 recipes, and 2-3 bonus goodies. Plus, when you sign up with the code MOMBABYFREE you get a free $45 e-gift card, an entire free bonus box (which includes carrier oils and bottles to help you make your recipe), and access to their essential oils e-course.
It’s a tremendous deal!
Ladies Choice Roll-On Recipe
Ingredients Needed:
- 5 Drops Ladies Choice Essential Oil Blend
- 3 Drops Lemon Essential Oil Blend
- 2 Drops Marjoram Essential Oil Blend
- 10ml fractionated coconut oil
This roll-on does such a wonderful job of easing PMS cramps. Simply add your essential oils to the roll-on bottle, swirl, then add in your coconut oil. Viola!
You can apply the Ladies Choice roll-on directly to your abdomen for quick cramp relief or your pulse points to boost your mood.
What Are Your Favorite Essential Oils for PMS Relief?
I’m not gonna lie, essential oils isn’t for everyone. Some people find the scent too powerful while others aren’t affected at all. I love them and definitely do notice a difference on the months that I decide to use them.
If you’d like to give these oils a try, I highly recommend Simply Earth. YES, you can buy them on Amazon or at Wal-Mart, but I truly question the quality of those oils. I trust this company and in the six years I’ve used them, they’ve always had great customer service.
You can buy all of these oils a la carte at Simply Earth or buy a recipe box and make some amazing concoctions. If you decide to go for a box, use the code MOMBABYFREE to get a free $45 egift card, a bonus box, and access to a a free essential oil 101 course (this is so helpful if you’re just starting out.
If you currently use any good essential oils for your period, let us know below!
