Both men and women are affected by hormonal imbalance. Symptoms can include weight gain, fatigue, insomnia, depression, mood swings and fertility problems. When hormone imbalances in the body are left untreated, they can lead to diseases such as cancer or diabetes.
Here are seven essential oils for hormone imbalance:
1. Thyme Oil
Research has shown that thyme essential oil has beneficial progesterone-balancing effects. It benefits the body by improving progesterone production. Many man and women are low in progesterone. Low levels have been linked to infertility, PCOS and depression, as well as other hormone imbalances in the body.
2. Clary Sage Oil
A 2014 study found that inhalation of clary sage oil had the ability to reduce cortisol levels by 36%, while improving thyroid hormone levels. Researchers stated that "clary sage oil had a statistically significant effect on lowering cortisol and had an anti-depressant effect improving mood."3. Sandalwood Oil
Sandalwood oil is very effective at balancing testosterone levels in both men and women. It can be added to a homemade deodorant or a homemade lotion to help the body improve hormone levels. Sandalwood oil is also said to be a natural aphrodisiac that works to improve libido.4. Lavender Oil
Lavender has many beneficial properties, including its ability to help the body balance hormones. This oil also offers pain relief for those suffering from abdominal cramps associated with menstrual symptoms. One symptom of PMS or hormone imbalance is feeling emotional or depressed for no apparent reason. Lavender oil has been shown to decrease feelings of stress and depression.
5. Lemongrass Oil
The ovaries produce both estrogen and progesterone. When these hormones aren't balanced, the body can experience symptoms including PMS, infertility and difficult or irregular menstrual cycles. A Dutch study found that the compounds in lemon peels can improve liver functions - including hormone regulation - by lowering liver cholesterol. Lemon essential oil contains these same compounds, giving it the natural ability to balance hormones.6. Myrtle Oil
It's estimated that around 20 million Americanssuffer from some form of thyroid disease, but 60% of sufferers are not aware of their disorder. The thyroid controls important functions in the body, including the metabolism and the body's temperature. Myrtle oil has the ability to simulate thyroid activity. Studies have shown that myrtle oil can balance and normalize hormonal imbalances of the thyroid, as well as the ovaries.7. Basil Oil
The adrenal glands are responsible for how you cope with daily stress. Cortisol is produced by the adrenal glands. Basil essential oil increases the body's natural response to both physical and emotional stress. In one study, researchers examined the effects of daily basil extracts on stress symptoms in men and women. After six weeks, 39% of participants showed a decrease in general stress symptoms, including sleep problems, exhaustion and forgetfulness.
How To Use Essential Oils For Hormone Imbalance
- Mix some coconut oil with the essential oil and rub it on different areas of the body. This will allow them to be absorbed into the body through the skin.
- Add 1/4 cup of Epsom salt to a warm bath, then add 3 drops of clary sage and 2 drops of lavender. Soak in the bath to help relieve PMS symptoms.
- Create an aromatherapy formula consisting of 2 drops of clary sage oil and 2 drops of lavender oil to help improve hormone balance.
