Essential Oils to Support Women’s Health
Published by sclarke@newdirectionsaromatics.com BigCommerce on 20th Mar 2026
October 13, 2022
Essential Oils to Support Women’s Health
Essential oils have been used for centuries across cultures for their healing and balancing properties. Today, they continue to support women’s health, with different oils benefiting various life stages. Oils like lavender, geranium, clary sage, and frankincense can help improve mood through aromatherapy and may ease symptoms of PMS and menopause when used topically. Their versatility allows women to personalize their use for overall wellbeing.
How Do Essential Oils Support Women’s Health?
Aromatic oils have been used for centuries in traditional wellness practices and are often associated with supporting a sense of vitality and balance. Today, the natural wellness movement is inspiring women of all ages to explore more holistic approaches as their needs evolve over time. Hormones including estrogen, progesterone, and testosterone naturally fluctuate throughout life, particularly during major stages such as puberty, pregnancy, and menopause, which can influence changes in the body and skin.
Acne is a common concern that can appear at various stages of life. Incorporating essential oils such as Bergamot into your skincare routine may help support a clearer-looking complexion while maintaining the skin’s natural moisture balance. For mature skin types, oils extracted from resins are often appreciated for their ability to support the appearance of smooth, healthy-looking skin.
For many women, the menstrual cycle may bring occasional discomfort such as cramps, mood changes, or muscle tension. Essential oils such as Clary Sage are commonly used in aromatherapy to promote a sense of relaxation and emotional balance. Its calming aroma can help create a soothing environment during times of stress.
Essential oils are also frequently used to promote comfort and relaxation during life transitions such as menopause. Diffusing or applying diluted essential oils can help create a calming atmosphere and support overall wellbeing during times of change.
The Best Essential Oils for Women’s Health
Clary Sage Essential Oil – Known for its herbaceous and sweet aroma with subtle fruity notes, the name Clary Sage Oil is derived from the Latin word claris, meaning ‘clear’. Aromatically, Clary Sage has been used to cultivate a relaxing and peaceful environment that can create a sense of balance and grounding. For centuries, Clary Sage Oil has been favored for its versatility in supporting women’s health. Studies have shown that this herbaceous oil can ease the severity of menstrual cramps, as well as treat PMS symptoms such as mood swings.
Lavender Essential Oil – Lavender Oil is a strong sedative that has been used for centuries to treat sleep problems as well as symptoms of stress and anxiety. This beautiful floral oil can be used by women young and old to support their overall wellbeing. Along with its aromatic benefits, Lavender Oil can also support healthy skin when applied topically. Linalool, one of the main constituents of Lavender Oil, exhibits anti-bacterial and anti-fungal properties that are cleansing and soothing to congested skin.
Geranium Essential Oil – Reputed to reduce physical and mental stress, Geranium Oil possesses balancing properties that promote a sense of focus and calm during times of physical or emotional distress. Geranium Oil is believed to be effective in soothing symptoms of both menstruation and menopause. This includes body aches, mood swings, and hot flashes.
Bergamot Essential Oil – Bergamot Essential Oil exudes a bright citrus scent that is also fruity, sweet, and balanced by a spicy floral note. Characteristic to citrus oils, Bergamot oil is reputed to ease the symptoms of stress and anxiety because of its constituents such as a-Pinene and Limonene. Bergamot can also act as a sedative and support proper sleep hygiene, which is crucial for women at all stages of life. For menopausal women, getting adequate sleep may help ease symptoms of migraines caused by hormonal shifts. When applied topically, Bergamot can support healthy skin and hair by adding shine to the hair, preventing hair loss, and soothing inflammatory skin issues such as acne.
Neroli Essential Oil – Citrusy, sweet, and notably floral, Neroli’s exotic aroma can be beneficial in supporting mental and emotional wellbeing. Regarded as a grounding and peaceful oil, Neroli is believed to ease symptoms of depression while encouraging a more positive mood. A small study involving postmenopausal women demonstrated that inhaling Neroli Oil helped manage symptoms such as low libido caused by stress.
Rose Geranium Essential Oil – Rose Geranium Oil possesses many of the same benefits as Geranium while also exhibiting a unique sweet rose aroma. Rose Geranium also exhibits soothing sedative qualities that can support women’s mental and emotional wellbeing by promoting a greater sense of relaxation. This balancing oil is recommended for those who are experiencing symptoms of fatigue, anxiety, restlessness, or tension.
Frankincense Essential Oil – A deeply spiritual essential oil, Frankincense is diffused during meditation practices to achieve a sense of calm and grounded state of mind. When applied topically, Frankincense is believed to be beneficial to both acne-prone and mature skin types. For aging skin, this oil can improve its elasticity and promote a more supple complexion. Meanwhile, Frankincense’s cleansing properties can reduce bacteria that causes blemishes. For menstruating and menopausal women, Frankincense oil has the potential to balance hormone levels as well as reduce symptoms such as pain, cramps, anxiety, nausea, fatigue, and mood swings.