Using Essential Oils For PMS: Which Ones Work Best?
Being a woman is an amazing experience! Having the ability to grow, birth, and feed a baby is empowering and almost unbelievable.
But, unfortunately, there are a lot of ups and downs as you ride the crimson wave that allows you to have those privileges. It is said that 85% of women experience some, or even many, symptoms of Premenstrual Syndrome.
The good news is that there are some incredible Essential Oils that can help settle you down while you ride that monthly roller coaster. In this quick guide, we’re going to unveil the top essential oils for PMS symptoms and help you feel your best when that time of the month rolls around.
Can You Really Use Essential Oils For PMS?
We know you might be a bit skeptical – your heat pad and ibuprofen barely help at all, how can essential oil lend a hand? Believe us when we say this is definitely something you’ll want to try – there is even science behind it!
One study conducted examined the effects of aromatherapy on coping with the premenstrual syndrome – which is a long-winded way to refer to PMS symptoms.
Findings showed that specific oils – such as lavender oil, yielded impressive results. Women reported that the major PMS symptoms like anxiety, depression, nervousness, pain, bloating, and more were decreased by inhaling certain essential oil blends!
So the answer to the question of “can you really use essential oils for PMS?” is a resounding yes. The question then becomes, “Which essential oils should I use?”. Don’t worry – we’re going to break down our favorites for you below.
The Top Essential Oils For PMS Symptoms
Studies have shown that certain essential oils work better than others when it comes to PMS symptoms, but in our personal experience, there are actually quite a few that may help.
We’re going to start off with our personal favorite.
Clary Sage
You may have heard that Clary Sage Essential Oil can be good for female hormones, but truly, this herbal oil can be a woman’s best friend. Supporting almost every symptom of PMS, Clary Sage is the calm in the storm.
One component of this oil is sclareol which mimics estrogen in a woman’s body. This promotes hormonal balance and may help reduce issues that arise during your monthly cycle. Additionally, Clary Sage is antispasmodic so when applied topically to the abdomen, it can tame menstrual cramping.
Because it contains another component called Linalyl Acetate, it is incredibly calming and great for emotional stability. This is very beneficial for irritability that often comes with PMS. Finally, Clary Sage has been shown to help reduce cortisol (the stress hormone) levels and significantly improve mood.
How to use: For cramps, apply topically with a carrier oil and apply as needed to the abdomen. For mood, simply inhale Clary Sage for 30 seconds or wear on pulse points with a carrier.

Lavender
Of course, Lavender Essential Oil is famous for its ability to calm and relax, so this makes it the perfect choice for tension or depressed mood. One study showed that after 10 minutes of inhaling Lavender, women experiencing PMS showed a marked reduction in depression and lack of focus for up to 35 minutes after.
Additionally, this floral oil can help ease stress and anxiety and may even reduce migraines during your cycle. Because Lavender contains linalool, it may be helpful in reducing period cramps as well. Lastly, if insomnia haunts you during your cycle, Lavender can encourage better sleep. Researchers found that by inhaling this fragrant scent for 20 minutes prior to bed, women experienced a deeper and longer rest.
How to use: For rest and relaxation, inhale Lavender Essential Oil for 10-20 minutes as needed. For period cramping, apply to your abdomen with a carrier oil as needed.

Fennel
Fennel Essential Oil is known for its potential to have an estrogenic effect, therefore helping to regulate hormone levels during your cycle. This anise-like oil also has analgesic properties meaning that it can help reduce pain, which is incredibly beneficial for cramps.
In addition, Fennel is known to help settle your stomach and even control hunger. This can be super useful if you tend to get tummy aches or serious junk food cravings during your time of the month.
How to use: For cramps or stomach issues, apply topically to the painful area with a carrier oil as needed. For appetite control, inhale Fennel for at least 30 seconds when you are wanting to snack. Repeat as desired.

Cycle Calm
This incredible female-friendly blend is REVIVE’s version of Young Living’s Dragon Time. Containing all of the above oils, plus Marjoram, Blue Yarrow, and Jasmine, Cycle Calm is a synergy of oils to help fight PMS.
This blend is meant to encourage balanced emotions and help you feel at ease while dealing with irritability and mood swings. As a bonus, many of the essential oils are great for reducing pain, so it can also be valuable for calming menstrual cramps.
How to use: To support emotions, inhale Cycle Calm as required until edgy feelings subside. For physical pain from cramps, apply to the lower abdomen with a carrier oil.


Other Essential Oils to Consider:
- Ylang Ylang oil reduces blood pressure and anxiety levels.
- Jasmine oil may help decrease feelings of depression and boost serotonin levels.
- Geranium essential oil may help regulate hormones and increase happiness.
DIY Cramp Crusher
Looking to create your own essential oil blends to battle PMS symptoms? Consider this DIY Cramp Crusher.
- 2 oz Glass Bottle
- 2 oz Fractionated Oil
- 10 drops Lavender Oil
- 6 drops Clary Sage Oil
- 4 drops Fennel Oil
- Optional: 4 drops Copaiba Oil
Combine all of the ingredients together and mix well, then pour into the bottle.
Massage onto the lower abdomen as needed.
Final Thoughts On Using Essential Oils For PMS Symptoms
Now that you know it is entirely possible to use essential oils for the symptoms of PMS, and you know which ones can help you, all that’s left to do is find your oils and get ready for next month! You’ll find that you’re able to stay productive and uplifted – despite what’s going on in your uterus.
When you shop at Revive, you’ll find the highest quality, 100% therapeutic grade essential oils on the market. We have everything from essential oil rollers to diffusers, carrier oils to essential oil blends, and even complete essential oil sets you can purchase!
With almost 1,000 five-star reviews, you can shop in confidence knowing you’re going with a safe, quality product. And, we make aromatherapy more affordable than other brands you may be familiar with. No need to break the bank when it comes to your health and wellbeing – we’ve got your back. Shop now and start feeling better ASAP!