You may already use essential oils for all kinds of purposes in your daily life but be unaware that they can be of great help during this phase of your cycle. When you’re in your Moon time you may suffer from abdominal cramps, pains and discomfort.
It is a very special time which requires rest, quietness and stillness, but our modern world doesn’t always allow us to slow down our rhythm and often we have to carry on as usual. So, Dysmenorrhea can be a significant problem. Let me recommend a few options to help you.
Thyme* essential oil is a good antispasmodic oil which could be used to help with dysmenorrhea:
• Blend with a carrier oil and apply topically using with a gentle clockwise motion on the lower abdomen, lower back and shoulders. Dilute 8 drops maximum in 25ml of carrier oil like Sweet Almond, Sunflower or Olive Oil etc.
• Use in a warm compress. Ad 1 drop of Thyme essential oil per 100ml of warm water. Put a piece of soft fabric in the water, wring out excess and apply on the lower abdomen for 2-3 minutes. To be repeated as often as required.
• Blend in a hot bath. First, dilute 5 drops of essential oil in a tablespoon of carrier oil or milk to help the oil disperse in the water. Then, pour it into the water and enjoy a good soak.
These methods are equally effective because it doesn’t take long before the essential oil penetrates the skin and reaches the bloodstream.
Should you not obtain satisfactory results with Thyme (always possible since everyone reacts differently to each essential oil), here is a list of other essential oils which could help with the symptoms:
Chamomile (German or Roman): analgesic, anti-inflammatory, antispasmodic, emmenagogue & sedative.
Clary Sage: Emmenagogue, anti-convulsive, anti-inflammatory, antispasmodic, sedative.
Cypress: Antispasmodic.
Frankincense: Emmenagogue, anti-inflammatory, sedative.
Juniperberry: Antispasmodic, emmenagogue, sedative.
Lavender: Analgesic, antispasmodic, emmenagogue, sedative.
Marjoram: Analgesic, emmenagogue, sedative.
Rose Otto: Anti-inflammatory, antispasmodic, emmenagogue, sedative.
Rosemary: Analgesic, emmenagogue. (Do not use if epileptic).
Any of the oils above can be used instead of Thyme, and you could even blend few of them together to create a synergy of oils. Just ensure that you’re following the ratios suggested above with the recipes.
The methods listed above will not “erase” every symptom of the menstrual phase but should help to alleviate them. It is part of the process to have the feeling that your energies, your stamina and your concentration decline during your Moon time.
Try not to fight against it and simply think about taking more time for yourself whenever possible. Sleep more, plan less social times, explain to your loving ones that you’ll need more time for yourself and let your emotions flow. With time, you may consider this phase in a less negative way and end up valuing it as a time of rest and renewal.
Thanks for reading my blog! I'll be back soon with more suggestions, tips and more :)
*Thyme essential oil is nontoxic & non-irritating but is a possible skin sensitiser in some individuals. It is always advisable to do a skin patch test the first time you use any oil. Put a drop of the oil you want to use in 5ml of carrier oil. Mix well and place the blend on the inside of your elbow and wait for any possible allergic reaction. If no redness, itchiness or swelling occurs after 24 hours then it should be safe to use the oil.
*Emmanagogue - herbs or oils that stimulate blood flow in the pelvic region, encouraging a healthier and more regular flow. Oils with emmanagogue properties should be avoided if you are pregnant or trying to become pregnant.
