People are using essential oils for thousands of years for therapeutic, cosmetic, and medicinal purposes. You can use essential oils for stress by diffusing them in your room, inhaling the scent from the bottle, or applying topically mixed with a carrier oil.
Essential oils are generally safe to use when used according to the instructions. However, if you have skin allergies, you should test them on a small area of skin that is not extremely sensitive. With the popularity of essential oils, you should stay away from adulterated ones. Go for the essential oils that are organic and pure. Here are our best picks for essential oils for calming and relaxation during your period:
- Lavender (Lavandula angustifolia)
Lavender is one of the most popular essential oils with the anti-anxiety property. It is a gentle floral aromatic scent that has a calming effect. The best way to use it to reduce period-related stress or anxiety is to diffuse a few drops of lavender oil in water. You can also mix a few drops with Epsom salt for a relaxing hot bath to reduce muscle cramps during periods.
- Clary Sage (Salvia sclarea)
This Mediterranean herb is best known for its stress-relieving properties by reducing Cortisol, the stress hormone. You can diffuse it in a diffuser with water. Another great way is to apply Clary Sage essential oil topically on the skin when mixed with Almond oil or Jojoba oil. To create this oil mixture, add 7-8 drops of Clary Sage essential oil with 1 Tbsp of Jojoba Oil and massage it on your neck, temples, or abdomen.
- Bergamot (Citrus bergamia)
This essential oil has a subtle citrusy aroma. Bergamot has stress-relieving properties and promotes relaxation. It can also uplift your mood during your periods. The best way to use it is to diffuse it and let the aroma fill your room.
- Orange (Citrus X sinensis)
The orange essential oil has anxiolytic properties, which promote relaxation. It has a beautifully sweet and citrusy aroma. This essential oil increases alertness and focuses while having a calming effect. Create a bath salt blend with Epsom salt, Dead Sea salt, a few drops of orange essential oil for a relaxation bath to ease period cramps.
- Pepermint (Mentha × piperita)
This oil has several medicinal and therapeutic properties. The best way to use it during your periods is to apply it topically mixed with a carrier oil like Almond or Jojoba oil. Mix a few drops of Peppermint essential oil with Almond oil and massage it on your abdomen and back. This will reduce the pain associated with menstrual cramps.
These are some of the essential oils that you can diffuse, mix in a bath salt, or apply topically during your periods or at any other time.
