These 8 Essential Oils for Menstrual Cramps Are Like Nature's Midol

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Getting cramps during your period truly might be the worst. Some intense cramps can even put you out of commission because you're in so much pain and discomfort. You could miss out on work or school or even social events with friends. It can be so frustrating that you want to shout out to the universe, "Being a woman is too much of an inconvenience!" Or maybe that's just me?

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Why do we get menstrual cramps in the first place? According to the Mayo Clinic, hormone-like substances called prostaglandins trigger uterine muscle contractions so your uterus can expel its lining. Conditions like endometriosis, uterine fibroids, and pelvic inflammatory disease can cause cramps, too.

There are several treatment methods to deal with annoying cramps, like eating certain foods, using a heating pad, taking over-the-counter pain relievers, acupuncture, acupressure, and getting on hormonal birth control. Another option is trying essential oils, which is pretty easy if you already have them on hand because you're using them for their other various benefits. If you do plan on using essential oils, note that you should never apply them directly to your skin, and you should dilute them first by adding them to a carrier oil. Two exceptions for this are lavender and tea tree oil.

Take a look at the best essential oils that can help menstrual cramps below.

1. Peppermint

2. Lavender

3. Cypress Oil

4. Clary Sage

5. Rose

6. Copaiba

7. Cinnamon

8. Essential Oil Blends

Disclaimer

This article is provided for informational purposes only and is not intended to be used in the place of advice of your physician or other medical professionals. You should always consult with your doctor or healthcare provider first with any health-related questions.

Managing Editor

Sarah is lifestyle writer and editor with over 10 years of experience covering health and wellness, interior design, food, beauty, and tech. Born and raised in Los Angeles, she attended New York University and lived in New York for 12 years before returning to L.A. in 2019. In addition to her work on THE/THIRTY and Who What Wear, she held editor roles at Apartment Therapy, Real Simple, House Beautiful, Elle Decor, and The Bump (sister site of The Knot). She has a passion for health and wellness, but she especially loves writing about mental health. Her self-care routine consists of five things: a good workout, “me” time on the regular, an intriguing book/podcast/playlist to unwind after a long day, naps, and decorating her home.