Seven Great Essential Oils for Women

Essential oils have an holistic effect on the body which makes them a perfect choice for multi-faceted problems. For many women the ups and downs of life can cause a range of niggling symptoms and although there are many oils that can help, some in particular stand out for their multi-purpose action. Here is a selection of some favourites for you to try, either on their own or blended to suit your particular needs.

Bergamot has been shown to reduce anxiety, improve mood and relieve the effects of chronic stress. It is useful for mood swings and irritability or just to give you a boost if you are feeling low. A cheerful oil for year-round happiness and health. This oil can be irritating to the skin and is also phototoxic, so it is best inhaled from a tissue or used in a diffuser.

Roman Camomile is the most gentle of oils, with a mild sedative effect that calms anxious feelings and relieves tension-related aches and pains. Try in a blend for monthly cramps or add a few drops to the bath for tension, stress and sleeplessness. Also safe to use with children if their irritability is having a knock-on effect on you.


Clary Sage is an ancient medicinal herb which has been used for thousands of years for digestive pains and abdominal muscle cramps. This oil is also used frequently in aromatherapy to help relieve symptoms relating to the menopause. Add to a blend for massage or inhale to balance constantly shfting emotions.

Highland Lavender has so many uses it is difficult to know where to start, but definitely use a high altitude Lavender for the best therapeutic effect. It is great to improve sleep and daytime alertness, and also helpful if you suffer from skin breakouts: just dab a little on blemishes to reduce redness and inflammation.

Mandarin has a relaxing effect that is calming rather than sedating, helping to relieve over-tiredness and associated hyperactivity. Its gentle effects work well for body as well as mind, making Mandarin a useful addition to a blend for cramps.

Sweet Marjoram has a warming effect on tight muscles so it is ideal in a massage blend for tension-related muscle pain. It has also been shown to lower heart rate and blood pressure, making it especially suitable for emotional support during difficult times.

Peppermint is well known for its cooling effects. Great for abdominal massage, or try a couple of drops in a cooling body mist during the menopause. Peppermint also stimulates the body, helping to boost energy levels and sharpen concentration. Put a drop on each temple for headaches or use in a foot bath to banish mental fatigue.