Menopause Care -Aromatherapy

Tackling Hormone related symptoms the natural way

It is vital that an individual suffering severe hormone related symptoms should seek help from their GP. However if the symptoms are mild then aromatherapy can relieve some of the symptoms

Headaches

To soothe and relieve headaches and discomfort I recommend a blend of Lavender and Peppermint Essential Oils. This blend is ideal to relieve discomfort and restore mental focus (mint comes from the Latin word “mente” meaning thought, as the Romans used Peppermint as a tonic for the brain). Alternatively try Potions Head Ease Essential Relief Balm.

Hot flushes

Any oil that can calm the mind is ideal to break this cycle of suddenly feeling warm, suddenly thinking about it and then being so self conscious and focused on it that one inadvertently aggravates the situation. However my favourite solution is to apply Lavender Oil that has been blended into a cooling Aloe Vera base as and when the flush starts to rise. I recommend applying it to the source of the flush (usually chest, boobs, throat or back of neck and the wrists). Do not rub it in completely so that the fleeting wetness adds to the cooling effect.

Sleep disturbances

If the sleep problems are stress related try a bath, oil burner or massage blend of Rose, to soothe the mind and balance the emotions, Neroli to counteract nervous exhaustion and Ylang Ylang to lift the spirits and counteract irritability. If however the sleep disturbances are down to hormone imbalance then try Lavender and/or chamomile.

Weight gain

Aromatherapy can help where eating is stress related by aiding relaxation & reducing stress levels. There are many many oils to try but I particularly recommend Bergamot, Geranium, Frankincense, Sandalwood, Green Mandarin, Neroli, Patchouli and Lavender. Historically Roman soldiers chewed fennel seeds on long marches to prevent hunger pangs so I also quite like to make up a cheery blend of Lime and wonderfully aniseedy Fennel with a touch of Frankincense for when I am trying to reduce my intake.

Water retention

Geranium and Juniper are both to be recommended. Both blend well with Lavender and Sandalwood for a fabulous massage or deeply relaxing bath.

HRT alternatives

Many complimentary practitioners and sales campaigns for supplements make serious claims in this area. My professional guidelines are to discuss any treatment, conventional or complimentary, with your GP and certainly do not part with large sums of money to organizations which in some cases are fraudulent or involved in pyramid selling.

In terms of aromatherapy there is no HRT alternative, however many oils can relieve some of the less serious symptoms. It is also important to note that aromatherapy is in general safe and is unlikely to interfere with any conventional treatment an individual may be receiving.

Advice courtesy of aromatherapist, Julie Foster, of Potions & Possibilities.

Potions & Possibilities produce the finest therapeutic health and well being products using premium essential oils and 100% gentle ingredients including organic plants, oils and herbal infusions. Our formulations are designed and naturally created to avoid SLS, synthetic parabens and other undesirable chemicals and we do not test on animals. The products, which range from soaps, bath oils and essential oils, to restorative balms and creams including an organic skin care range, are all developed and produced in England by trained and qualified aromatherapist, Julie Foster. We also offer training in beauty and complementary therapies.

www.potions.co.uk

Potions & Possibilities, Bridge Farm Business Park, Top Street, Old Martlesham, Suffolk IP12 4RB. Tel 01394 386161.