Sunday, November 2, 2008

Conquer Menopause Symptoms With Essential Oils

Most women actually start to experience perimenopause in their thirties however they may not be aware of changes going on their bodies until the signs and symptoms become pronounced usually by the time they are in their forties. The onset as well as the severity of the signs and symptoms is of course dependent on the individual themselves and is greatly influenced by genetics, over all health, and environmental influences.

It is becoming much more common for women to use natural remedies to help them through this process. Many prefer to use alternative methods as there as numerous options available. If you have already made the necessary life style changes and you are still experiencing signs and symptoms that you wish to get under control the use of essential oils and aromatherapy may be of interest to you.

There as several essential oils that can be used for menopausal and perimenopausal symptoms, the choice of which one is right for you is a personal choice as you must enjoy the scent of the oil you plan to use. The following is a list of a few of the possible essential oils that you can utilize and the specific applications for each:

1. Chamomile known as the great relaxer  as it has a very calming effect on the body and mind. This essential oil is extracted by steam distillation from the flowering tops of the plant Ormenis multicaulis. To use this calming essential oil to lessen the symptoms of menopause, use eight to ten drops in a bath or add a few drops to your diffuser. You may also prefer a massage, use a mixture of eight drops of chamomile essential oil and one ounce of your favorite carrier oil and cover your entire body.

2. Anise Seed has a flavor that greatly resembles black licorice and is part of the parsley family. Anise seed essential oil is extracted by steam distillation from the seeds of the plant Pimpinella anisum. An over all body massage is one of the best ways to reap the benefits of this special essential oil.

3. Geranium essential oil is actually know as the "women's oil" specifically for it's benefits concerning menstrual and menopausal symptoms.  This exotic floral essential oil is extracted by steam distillation from the leaves, stalks and flowers of the plant Pelargonium graveolens. Geranium essential oil should be used as a massage application paying special attention to the abdominal and lower back regions. The mixture should contain twenty drops of essential oil with one ounce of the carrier oil of your choice.

4. Clary Sage essential oil known as the "cure all" should not be confused with the sage used in many kitchen around the world. This essential oil is extracted by steam distillation from the flowering tops of the plant Salvia sclarea. Clary sage essential oil can be utilized in a bath, use approximately four drops for this application. or if you prefer use direct inhalation by placing two or three drops on a tissue or cloth and inhale.

5. Sage the herb commonly found in the kitchen has been revered for centuries. Sage essential oil is extracted by steam distillation from the dried leaves of the plant Salvia officinalis. If you experience hot flashes and night sweats, use a diffuser nightly with two or three drops of Sage essential oil. This will also help to relieve stress and tension.

6. Neroli essential oil is sweet and floral and is extracted by steam distillation or enfleurage from orange blossom petals of the orange tree Citrus aurantium. This essential oil is especially effective with the irritability, tearfulness and mood swings experienced by many women. To apply use three or four drops in your diffuser, approximately four drops with carrier oil for a massage or eight to ten drops in your bath.  

For more information on the benefits and uses of essential oils visit: Essential Oils|Aromatherapy|Phermones or for more information on menopause visit: Anti Aging Tips|Facts|Products

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