In medical terms, menopause begins when a woman has gone 12 consecutive months without a menstrual period due to lower hormone levels.

For most women, this usually happens between the ages of 45 or 55, although it can sometimes happen earlier. Hot flushes and fatigue are common symptoms which can cause a lot of discomfort, and to ease these you can use essential oils to help with the effects of menopause. We’ve put together a few suggestions below that you could try adding to your daily routine.

What are the best essential oils for menopause?

Peppermint can create a calming sensation

One of the most popular essential oils for menopause is Peppermint Oil, which can help to calm you when experiencing a hot flush. All you need to do is add one or two drops to a tissue or napkin and inhale by holding it up to your nose while slowly breathing in and out. Many women experience menstruation-related cramping during perimenopause, which could also be eased by using peppermint oil. If you continue to experience persistent cramping once menstruation has ended completely, it is a good idea to speak with your doctor as it could indicate an underlying medical condition.

Ease painful discomfort with lavender oil

Some women with menopause symptoms may experience tightness or an uncomfortable feeling in the area around the perineum, which can be eased by applying a cold compress. You can benefit from additional relief by adding a drop of diluted lavender oil to the compress before application. Use the compress for no longer than 30 minutes and if you feel any burning or stinging in the area, remove the compress and carefully rinse the area with water. Sleep patterns can also be interrupted during menopause and lavender oil is well known for creating a sense of calm to help you relax before bed. Add one or two drops to your pillow or duvet so you can naturally breathe it in and drift off more easily.

Geranium may help to manage hormonal changes

Experiencing hormonal changes can be very stressful and take its toll on the mind and body. It’s why some women use Geranium Essential Oil, as it provides a sense of calm to help them destress. Try adding a couple of drops to a tissue and inhaling, or mixing a diluted solution into a warm bath, which will promote a feeling of relaxation. Geranium oil’s properties can also help to improve the condition of your skin when it is feeling dry and tired. It’s these types of small aromatherapy treatments that can make a big difference to your mood and how you get through the day.

Discover the natural benefits of basil aromatherapy

Basil does not only work as an anti-hypoglycemic and antioxidant, but it also contains an oestrogen-like property that can do wonders for your energy levels. During menopause you may experience some days that are tougher than others and its during these moments that using a natural aromatherapy treatment can be very helpful. And adding it to your daily routine will serve to benefit your health overall. If you dilute Basil Essential Oil with a carrier oil and rub onto the back of your neck or on your feet, it could also help to ease a sudden hot flush.

Lemon essential oil may help with aches and pains

Lemon Essential Oil offers a bright, uplifting effect and can also have a positive impact for women experiencing symptoms of menopause. Traditionally, people turn to lemon essential oil for its anti-inflammatory properties, which can also be useful for easing any aches and pains that might arise. One study found that inhaling lemon oil lowered the physical symptoms experienced by postmenopausal women, while increasing their sexual desire. The results also showed that their systolic blood pressure decreased, with pulse rates and oestrogen concentrations rose.

Use orange essential oil to boost vitamin C levels

Another essential oil in the citrus group that could be worth a try is Orange Essential Oil, which can offer a similar brightening effect to lift your mood and energy levels. And, of course, oranges are high in vitamin C which can give you a pickup if you are feeling weary and run down. The scent of sweet orange is always very pleasing to the senses and may make it easier to relax and unwind after a long, testing day. Use it in a diffuser so it filters across your home, dilute it with a carrier oil and massage into the skin, or add a few drops to a hot bath to soak away your worries.

Give yourself a lift with bergamot oil

Bergamot is an extract from the offspring of a lemon and a sour orange and has been used medicinally for centuries in Italian and Southeast Asian communities. The scent of Bergamot Essential Oil is fresh and lemony and is perfect for uplifting your mood if you need a little boost. Women with menopause can regularly experience shifts in mood and higher levels of stress and anxiety and bergamot oil may help to bring a sense of calm and serenity for a short while.

There is a lot more understanding and support needed for women that experience menopause. For many, it is an extremely testing period of their life and the more information people have about this period of natural transitioning, the easier it can be to manage. Essential oils do not offer a cure, of course, but they can become an important part of your daily routine and give you a natural way to combat some of the more difficult symptoms you experience.