Aromatherapy and Women’s Health PMS, Pregnancy, Postpartum, Menopause and Athletes
Hot flashes, hormones, PMS, stress…Perhaps a deep breath laced with pure Women’s Balance Blend or lavender essential oil can smooth over the rough edges of many women’s life cycle transitions.	Steam distillation process used to produce pure lavender essential oil Norfolk Lavender Farm, England
Aromatherapy derived from herbal medicine has ancient roots and history supporting women’s health throughout the lifecycle.  It is enjoying a resurgence of interest as women seek safe and effective options for their healthcare conditions. Burns et al (2000) published an eight-year evaluative study of 8,058 women using aromatherapy during labor and childbirth. The findings indicated that aromatherapy was helpful for anxiety, pain and nausea during labor. Women’s health and running are areas where aromatherapy is especially well suited. The physical and emotional discomforts of PMS, menopause, infertility, menstrual irregularities, childbirth, cancer treatment and stress can be improved with aromatherapy. A runners nagging soreness, stiffness and pain with the desire to have a safe, external source of relief to carry in their bag for immediate comfort can be accomplished with an aromatherapy lotion blend.  Below are some examples of therapeutic essential oils, helpful as single oils, or synergistically blended for enhanced effect. Lavender- popular oil for stress, headaches, anxiety, insomnia and depression  Geranium- calming and balancing for stress, adrenal support, PMS and menopausal symptoms  Ylang-ylang- sensual, exotic fragrance, calming irritability, anxiety and anger  Clary sage- exceptionally relaxing and balancing for emotional and hormonal conditions, Infertility, PMS, Menopause Roman Chamomile- calming, helpful with menstrual cramps, aches, pains, insomnia, balancing for teenage-menopausal symptoms  Rose- "Queen of Flowers", anxiety, post-partum depression, grief support   These essential oils are very safe used externally only and always diluting 1-5 drops/tsp unscented lotion before applying to the skin for normal healthy adults. Special precautions must be observed for individuals with high blood pressure, epilepsy, cancer, allergies and pregnancy to name a few. For best results consult a professional knowledgeable about aromatherapy and your medical condition