While all pure essential oils have wonderful properties to assist body, mind and spirit, there are several that are considered to be outstanding for certain needs specific to women. Here are five to consider for their specific effects on feminine uses.

CHAMOMILE:

There are three varieties of chamomile used in Aromatherapy. All have similar properties in the sense of their physiological ability to aid digestion, boost the immune system and relieve pain and inflammation in the body and mind. Aromatherapist Gabriel Mojay says that the ‘key to understanding the psychological effect of chamomile’ is its energetic influence on the solar plexus…where issues of control and desire to nurture are located. A build-up of tension here results in frustration and irritability, ‘over controlling’ or losing control.

Historical use of this plant for female reproductive complaints is shown in the botanical name of German Chamomile, or Chamomile Blue, Matricaria recutita. Matricaria is derived from the word ‘matrix’ or ‘womb.’ German chamomile also has a relaxing effect on spasms that cause pain during menstruation and it is beneficial for urinary tract infections, such as cystitis. Because of its great power and strong aroma, German chamomile might be seen as the ‘matriarch’ of the chamomiles.

The most commonly used chamomile is Roman Chamomile (Anthemis nobilis) which has the softer, familiar apple-like smell (‘chamomile’ derived from chamai – ‘on the ground” and melon – ‘apple’). It is gentler in action, used to treat red, irritated, sensitive and dry skin and is helpful for insomnia, digestive complaints, nervous tension and headaches.

Moroccan Chamomile (Anthemis mixta) is the least commonly used and has a more camphoraceous aroma. Some aromatherapists choose this for menstrual problems where there is also depression, irritability and digestive issues, such as colitis.

CLARY SAGE:

The botanical name for Clary Sage, Salvia sclarea refers to healing and clarity. According to Mojay, the euphoria for which this essence is known is also grounded. It relaxes while providing a mental-emotional uplift. Clarity helps dispel illusion, fluctuating emotion and despondent worry. Salvatore Battaglia tells us that Clary Sage is one of the most important women’s remedies as it addresses all three phases of life: menstrual, childbirth and menopause. Its antispasmodic and analgesic effect relieves cramping, it is a uterine stimulant and helps bring on menstruation, and studies have shown that it is one of the best pain relievers during labor.

During menopause, Clary Sage has an estrogenic effect that is probably the result of pituitary/gonadal stimulation. It is known to ease hot flashes. Some aromatherapists caution that this essence should not be used with women who have a history of estrogen dependent tumors, a contraindication that research by Robert Tisserand has disproven.

CYPRESS:

This tree originates in the eastern Mediterranean and is exceptionally long lived. Some are believed to be two thousand or more years old, a fact reflected in its botanical name “Cupressus sempervirens” (‘sempervirens,’ always living). While all evergreens give a reassuring sense of life persisting, making them a comfort in times of bereavement, Mojay tells us that Cypress helps us cope with and accept even difficult change, both inner and outer. It is useful in time of transition such as career change, ending of close relationships, empty nest syndrome. It unearths fears that block change and strengthens in time of self-doubt. Physiologically, Cypress is a circulatory decongestant, used for varicose veins and hemorrhoids. It is a menstrual regulator that relieves painful periods, heavy bleeding during periods and severe hot flashes during menopause. 

FENNEL (SWEET):

The botanical name (Foeniculum vulgare var. dulce) describes the fragrance of a common herb with a variation (var.)that smells ‘sweet.’ A diuretic and lymphatic decongestant, Mojay says this essence helps free repressed and toxic emotions and encourages confident self-expression and creativity. It is indicated for simple fluid retention, cellulite and weight control. Fennel is helpful with urinary tract infection and is recommended to help regulate the menstrual cycle. During menopause, Fennel helps balance symptoms of fluctuating hormonal levels. Due to levels of the ketone fenchone and the estrogen-like action of trans-anethole, contraindications for the use of Fennel in high amounts or with regularity include epilepsy, pregnancy, estrogen dependent tumors and breast feeding. Sweet Fennel has less of this ketone constituent than Bitter Fennel.

GERANIUM:

The fruit of this bushy shrub is thought to resemble a stork’s bill, and so the botanical name contains the Greek word for stork, pelargos . In the same way that the stork can balance easily on one leg, Geranium essential oil is known for its ability to bring balance to the body and emotions. Mojay tells us that this essence conveys calm strength and security, relieving chronic and acute anxiety, particularly due to stress from overwork. Because of its aphrodisiac quality, it reconnects those with an overload of mental energy to sensuality, spontaneity, pleasure. Citing the work of several Aromatherapists, Battaglia tells us that Geranium oil may stimulate the adrenal cortex, increasing hormones that are essentially regulating and balancing. This makes Geranium good for situations of fluctuating hormone levels, such as PMS and menopause. As a diuretic and lymphatic stimulant, this essence is helpful with cellulite, fluid retention and ‘simple’ edema of the ankles. The aroma is familiar from skin care products which use this essence for its ability to balance the production of sebum, making it useful for all skin types.

PMS BALANCE BLEND:

• 6 drops Geranium
• 2 drops Clary Sage
• 2 drops Chamomile
• 5ml Carrier Oil (i.e. Jojoba)

PAUSE FROM MENOPAUSE:

• 6 drops Geranium
• 2 drops Clary Sage
• 2 drops Cypress
• 5ml Carrier Oil (i.e. Jojoba)