For many of us, the time of the month can mean dealing with cramps, and mood swings, in my case eating my way through a truckload of chocolate, which doesn’t help because sugar can actually make cramps worse.
While it is very easy and tempting to simply reach out for a painkiller, I personally try to avoid this because we don’t know how this can affect our bodies in the long term.
For example, most of us have no idea what’s in the most common pain killer paracetamol, or how it works. No one really knows for sure exactly. But it is thought that it does by blocking COX enzymes in the brain and spinal cord (central nervous system). Paracetamol is used usually used to treat pain and to lower a high temperature. And yes, I agree there are times when we definitely these medications and painkillers have their place in the world.
But we also know taking too much of them can cause problems, all packs of painkillers come with a long list of warnings of what can happen if you overdose. So, what happens when you make a practice of reaching out for a painkiller for every slight ache and pain? Is it slowly causing damage inside, or are we becoming immune and needing to increase the dosage so it can be effective? Because of these unknown factors, I prefer to save my painkillers for when I really need them and when my GP has prescribed them.
Here are some of the practices I follow before reaching out for pain relief
We all know Essential oils can be used in many different ways. Simply adding a few drops to your bath can be a great way to relax! There are a number of essential oils that can specifically be used to help with PMS each of these essential oils is known to be used for various purposes, such as soothing inflammation or reducing pain. Traditionally many of these oils have been used for centuries to help women through menstruation and menopause.
This wonderful essential oil has many uses, Lavender has been used by many to aid relaxation and a restful night’s sleep. What you may not know is that lavender can help relax your muscles as well as your mind! Research has found that massaging lavender oil onto your abdomen can help to relieve menstrual cramps, and can also help to balance your mood during this time of the month. Making it a useful oil to have if you regularly suffer from period cramps and mood swings. Dilute a few drops of the oil in another carrier oil (such as coconut or olive oil) and massage it onto your stomach to relieve cramps.
Clary sage is another calming essential oil that can be beneficial if you suffer from PMS and one that can be helpful later in life when you reach menopause, too! The oil can help to relieve cramping pains in your stomach, as well as reduce backache that can come along with PMS. Massaging in a diluting blend into affected areas can help.
“Clary sage is also thought to help balance hormone levels in the body so this essential oil can be great for mood swings too.
This is an invigorating and energising oil, which can be exactly what you need if you’re suffering from fatigue and lack of motivation during PMS. If you’re feeling down in the dumps, inhaling some peppermint oil can give you a nice little mood lift. Peppermint is also traditionally used to relieve nausea and bloating, which makes it extra useful for those who struggle with digestive issues during their period. I’d recommend massaging some diluted peppermint oil onto your stomach or drinking some soothing peppermint tea.
Eucalyptus can be another energising essential oil thanks to its anti-inflammatory properties. Often, inflammation can be lurking behind many PMS symptoms, including stomach cramps, achy muscles and skin flare-ups. So, this is an important thing to tackle if you are looking to reduce the severity of your PMS symptoms, and eucalyptus may be able to help.
Both are lovely oils and are calming and can work to reduce stress and anxiety by soothing the central nervous system. Using these individually or incorporating them into a blend can be helpful if you suffer from stress and anxiety. Stress can make PMS symptoms worse and make day-to-day life even more difficult at this time of the month.
Another good combination of essential oils for PMS. Clove and Roman chamomile are considered to be anti-inflammatory. Clove has traditionally been used to reduce pain, while Roman chamomile is an anti-spasmodic which can help to ease nasty period pains.
Safety first
Using these essential oil blends in your routine can be a great natural way to ease PMS symptoms but they must always be preblended with a carrier oil as essential oils must never be used directly onto the skin.
Always make sure to do a skin patch test before using pre-blended essential oil solutions on the skin. This can be done by dabbing a small patch of diluted oil onto your skin and waiting 24 hours to see if any reactions occur. If not, you should be good to go. Ideally, you want to blend and patch-test your chosen oils before your period is due. Once you know you have had no reactions you could blend and store a small bottle away for use during this time. Bottles used should always be dark glass and sterilised. They should be stored away in a cool dark area away from direct sunlight.
How to use the oils
Ask your partner to give you a relaxing massage, especially if you are experiencing back pain or unwind in a warm bath scented with your oil blend. Not only can this help to relax your mind and reduce stress, but the heat can also be great for reducing period cramps.
Bring a good book or listen to some gentle music and take some well-deserved “me” time.
