Essential Oils & Menopause Part 2 - Hot Flashes

4:39 PM Posted by jo


This is my second post in my series about menopause and essential oils. This time I will talk about hot flashes. It can be embarrassing when you suddenly break into sweat or turn red when you're around other people. Experiencing hot flashes is one of the unfortunate discomforts many women experience during menopause. The irregular function of the blood vessels when they constrict and dilate is what is causing the hot flashes and sweating. It increases the blood flow, slightly increases the heart rate and raises the temperature. It is a good idea to avoid stimulants such as coffee, tea and alcohol during this time.

Fortunately there are some essential oils that have historically been used for hot flashes that you can try to see if they relieve your symptoms. Many women have found relief using peppermint which has a refreshing and cooling effect and they think it is an easy and effective way.

Peppermint, clary sage, bergamot, fennel, and have traditionally been applied to the ankles at the ovary and uterus Vita Flex points. 






Battaglia recommends the following formula for hot flashes:
Clary Sage 10 drops
Geranium 10 drops
Sage 5 drops
Lemon 5 drops
Evening primrose oil 50 ml

Valeri Worwood's formula is slightly different:
Clary sage 10 drops
Geranium 11 drops
Lemon 7 drops
Sage 2 drops
2 tablespoons vegetable oil


You can also make a spritzer and use as a cooling body spray:

2 oz. glass bottle
1 ¾ oz. distilled or filtered water
10-30 drops essential oils
Optional:
¼ Add witch hazel or vodka to emulsify the oils. Important for thick oils like jasmine and myrrh.


Remember, each person is different so you have to find what works for you. You also have to consider that it may take a while to see a positive change so you have to stick with it and not give up right a way. Please check out my previous post in this subject to learn more about menopause and see what other oils traditionally recommended for menopause.




Before you leave:


I recommend that you always perform a skin patch test when you try a new oil.


Check out my safety page to make sure you are aware of any contrindications before you use essential oils. Some oils are not suitable when suffering from certain conditions. AlsoRead this Before You Start Using Essential oils. Some oils should not be applied prior to sun exposure so make sure you check this list before spending time in the sun.

Not sure how to apply the oils? Visit these pages to learn how to apply the oils:
If you're new to essential oils you might want to check out my Getting Started Guide. 

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Johanna is an aromatherapist and she is passionate about educating people about health, essential oils, real food, natural remedies, and nutrition so they make healthier choices in their lives. 

Follow Johanna on twitter and facebook for more health tips and information.










Sources:
Connie and Alan Higley, (Twelfth Edition, revised 2010). Reference Guide for Essential Oils. Abundant Health
Gary Young, ND (2006). Essential Oils, Integrative Medical Guide. Essential Science Publishing
Valeri Ann Worwood, (1991). The Complete Book of Essential Oils & Aromatherapy. New World Library, San Rafael, CA
Salvatore Battaglia (1995). The Complete Guide to Aromatherapy. The Perfect Potion Pty Ltd

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