The Best Essential Oils for Menstrual Cramps

• "Lavender oil used as an inhalation has been shown to effectively reduce cramps and menstrual bleeding when compared to a placebo," shares Jennifer Stagg, MD, a naturopathic physician. "Lavender is thought to effect the prostaglandins that mediate pain and uterine contractions." Lavender oil's ability to lessen contractions makes it one of the best essential oils for menstrual cramps. 

• "Cinnamon oil alone has been studied as a treatment for menstrual cramps, and was found to be very effective at reducing uterine contractions," explains Dr. Stagg.
• "A blend of essential oils of lavender, clove, cinnamon, and rose was studied as a topical oil applied to the abdomen for seven days prior to menstruation, and was found to reduce the amount of pain and duration of cramps and even the amount of menstrual bleeding when compared to a placebo group," says Dr. Stagg. She suggests these essential oils for cramps because they may balance prostaglandin levels to ease pain.
• Clary sage is one of the most popular essential oils for menstrual cramps because it's easily found and widely believed to be an antispasmodic agent, meaning it reduces spasms, like the ones your uterus may be experiencing. Still unsure about essential oils? 
• Of all the essential oils for cramps, frankincense probably evokes the most festive flair thanks to the scent also being popular at holiday times. Frankincense can be used in a warm bath, diffuser, or applied topically when diluted with other oils to help relieve pain associated with inflammation. These surprising frankincense benefits will get you excited about trying the oil on for size.
• Ylang ylang oil is regarded as a mood enhancer, PMS-calmer, and mild sedative to help take the edge of pain associated with cramping. It also is thought to fight anxiety, which is a kind of welcome bonus when you're already uncomfortable. Here are some other essential oils that help fight anxiety.

Learn more about the benefits of essential oils from doTERRA Health Advocate Amy Snyder at http://my.doterra.com/amysnyder