5 mood-boosting essential oils to use during periods

Bloating, abdomen pain, breast tenderness and headaches are just some of the things women experience around their periods. But some people also find themselves waking up in great spirits and then getting irritated or losing their cool just a few hours later for no reason. Mood swings during menstruation are quite common, and you can blame your hormones. Don’t worry, you can boost your mood with essential oils during periods.

There is an interplay of prostaglandins during the menstrual cycle, which are chemicals responsible for mediating pain and can also affect mood, explains Dr Sowparnika S N, Consultant Reproductive Medicine, Fertility Specialist, Milann Fertility and Birthing Hospital, Sarjapura, Bengaluru. There is hormonal fluctuation that can result in feelings of depression, anxiety and loneliness, contributing to mood swings.

Essential oils to uplift mood during periods

You may try to use some drops of essential oil to your bath routine to relax for a while. If you pick the right ones, it can be a great mood booster during periods or to beat PMS blues.

1. Lavender oil

For long, lavender oil has been used to enhance mood and relaxation. It can be mixed with a carrier oil like coconut or olive oil, and applied to the abdominal area. The massaging not only helps to alleviate period cramps, but also elevates mood, the expert tells Health Shots. A 2019 study in the US National Library of Medicine showed that lavender has anxiety-lowering effects.

2. Clary sage

Clary sage has antispasmodic effects, helps to balance hormones and can mitigate mood swings. It can be blended with coconut oil and applied on the body.

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3. Peppermint

Peppermint oil is known for its ability to relieve nausea, bloating and other digestive issues during periods. It can be used in tea, providing a soothing effect and boosting mood. If you are mentally exhausted, all you have to do is smell peppermint, and then let its fresh scent uplift your mood.

4. Eucalyptus

The aroma of eucalyptus oil is invigorating, and it possesses anti-inflammatory properties that can help to alleviate pain and uplift your mood during menstruation.

5. Rose and ylang-ylang

These essential oils can reduce stress and anxiety, promoting a calming effect during stressful periods. They are very soothing, says Dr Sowparnika.
A 2013 study published in the US National Library of Medicine found that ylang-ylang reduces blood pressure and heart rate. So if you are feeling stressed, it can relax and soothe your mind and body.

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Tips to manage mood swings during periods

Essential oils may not be suitable for those who are allergic to them. The application of these oils can exacerbate asthma or allergies in such cases.

If not essential oils, you can to seek solace through exercise. Doing any physical activity can help to lift your mood. Endorphins, which are known as the feel-good brain chemicals, get released when you workout. They may help to counteract some of the hormone changes that cause mood swings. Working out can help you with period cramps, and that in turn may make you feel better.

If you are starting your day with a mug of coffee, stop doing that. Caffeine can make you feel nervous or anxious, so if you stop having coffee days before your periods, it can affect your mood in a good way.