10 Essential Oil Remedies to Relieve Menstrual Cramps and Pain

Understanding Menstrual Cramps and Their Causes

Menstrual cramps, also known as dysmenorrhea, are characterized by pain and cramping in the lower abdomen occurring right before or during a menstrual period. The pain often radiates to the lower back and thighs.

Many women experience mild to moderate cramping during their period. However, some suffer from severe, debilitating pain.

The exact causes of menstrual cramps are not fully known. Some contributing factors include:

• Uterine contractions triggered by prostaglandins chemicals
• Changes in blood flow and oxygen reduction in the uterus
• Release of compounds that cause inflammation and pain
• Underlying conditions like endometriosis or uterine fibroids

Common Symptoms

In addition to abdominal cramping, women may experience:

• Lower back pain
• Thigh pain
• Nausea and vomiting
• Diarrhea
• Headaches
• Dizziness
• Bloating and water retention

Using Essential Oils to Relieve Period Cramps

Many essential oils have anti-inflammatory, antispasmodic, soothing properties that can provide natural relief for painful menstrual cramps. Some of the most effective essential oils include:

Clary Sage

Clary sage oil contains antispasmodic sclareol that helps relax uterine muscle contractions. It can reduce cramping and may also help balance hormones.

Lavender

Lavender essential oil has analgesic and sedative properties that help ease PMS cramps. It also reduces stress and promotes relaxation.

Roman Chamomile

Roman chamomile oil reduces inflammation, relieves muscle spasms, and provides a calming effect. It can relax cramping muscles.

Sweet Marjoram

Marjoram oil helps improve blood circulation in the abdomen. This provides relief from muscle spasms and stagnant blood accumulation.

Cypress

Cypress oil has astringent and antispasmodic properties that can help tone uterine muscle and calm contractions and cramping.

Helichrysum

Helichrysum's anti-inflammatory and antispasmodic actions help decrease inflammation and cramping symptoms associated with menstruation.

10 Essential Oil Remedies for Period Cramps

Here are some easy DIY essential oil remedies that can provide relief from menstrual cramps at home:

1. Soothing Massage Oil Blend

Combining several cramp-relieving oils makes a highly effective massage oil to rub directly on the abdomen and lower back.

Ingredients:

• 4 drops clary sage essential oil
• 3 drops sweet marjoram essential oil
• 4 drops lavender essential oil
• 4 drops Roman chamomile essential oil
• 2 tbsp coconut oil (melted)

Directions:

1. Add the essential oils to the melted coconut oil.
2. Mix together well and allow to cool before use.
3. Massage over the abdomen, lower back and sides as needed for cramps.

2. Warming Patchouli Massage

The warmth enhances absorption and relaxing effects of patchouli, clary sage and ginger oils on aching muscles.

Ingredients:

• 3 drops patchouli essential oil
• 3 drops clary sage essential oil
• 2 drops ginger essential oil
• 1 tbsp coconut or olive oil

Directions:

1. Mix the essential oils with the carrier oil in a bowl.
2. Soak a washcloth in very warm water, wring out and place in a ziplock bag.
3. Add the oil blend to the bag, seal and massage over cramping areas.
4. Place on lower abdomen or back, and relax until the cloth cools.

3. Soothing Bath Salts

A relaxing bath infused with magnesium-rich Epsom salts and essential oils can ease soreness and discomfort.

Ingredients:

• 1 cup Epsom salts
• 5 drops lavender essential oil
• 5 drops sweet marjoram essential oil
• 3 drops clary sage essential oil

Directions:

1. Mix the Epsom salts and essential oils together in a bowl.
2. Add 1/4 cup of the mixture to warm bath water.
3. Soak in the bath for 20-30 minutes to help alleviate cramps.

4. Soothing Roll-On Blend

Roll on this quick-absorbing, cooling blend to wrists, abdomen and back of neck as needed.

Ingredients:

• 8 drops peppermint essential oil
• 5 drops lavender essential oil
• 4 drops Roman chamomile essential oil
• 2 tbsp fractionated coconut oil

Directions:

1. Add the essential oils to the coconut oil in a 10ml roller bottle.
2. Roll bottle between palms to mix, then roll on skin for cooling relief.

5. Anti-Cramping Diffuser Blend

Inhaling this blend of relaxing, cramp-relieving oils helps provide full body relief.

Ingredients:

• 4 drops clary sage essential oil
• 3 drops marjoram essential oil
• 2 drops lavender essential oil
• 2 drops Roman chamomile essential oil

Directions:

1. Add the essential oils to your diffuser as directed on the diffuser instructions.
2. Inhale the scent deeply to help relax the body and relieve menstrual cramps.

6. Cooling Compress Blend

Applying a cold compress with soothing oils can help relieve abdominal muscle spasms.

Ingredients:

• 3 drops peppermint essential oil
• 3 drops lavender essential oil
• 2 drops Roman chamomile essential oil
• Bowl with cold water
• Washcloth or towel

Directions:

1. Add the essential oils to a bowl filled with cold water.
2. Soak a washcloth in the water, wring out excess, and place on lower abdomen.
3. Repeat as needed for pain relief.

7. Massage Oil and Heat

A soothing abdominal massage followed by a heating pad can relieve muscle tension and improve blood flow.

Ingredients

FAQs

How do I use essential oils for menstrual cramps?

Dilute essential oils and apply topically to the abdomen, lower back and legs. Use in massage oils, baths, compress, roller bottles. Inhale oils diffused in the air. Follow safe usage guidelines.

What essential oil works best for period cramps?

The most effective oils for period cramps are clary sage, lavender, marjoram, chamomile, peppermint and ginger. Use a blend of several oils together for best results.

Are essential oils safe for menstrual cramps?

When used properly at recommended dilutions, essential oils are generally safe and effective for relieving period cramps. Do not ingest oils. Avoid if pregnant or allergic.

How often can I use essential oils for menstrual cramps?

You can use diluted essential oils several times a day as needed to relieve cramps during your period. Take a break if any irritation occurs.

How fast do essential oils work for period cramps?

When applied topically, inhaled or absorbed in a bath, essential oils can start providing relief from period cramps within 5-20 minutes as they take effect.

Disclaimer: This article is for informational purposes only and does not constitute medical advice. Always consult with a healthcare professional before starting any new treatment regimen.