10 Best Herbal Essential Oils For Hot Flashes

Herbal essential oils, such as lavender, clary sage, and chamomile, are commonly used to help alleviate the symptoms of hot flashes, which are a common side effect of menopause.

These oils are often diffused or applied topically to promote relaxation and balance hormonal fluctuations. Studies suggest that certain essential oils may have a calming effect on the nervous system, which can help reduce the frequency and intensity of hot flashes. However, it is important to use these oils safely, as some may cause skin irritation or interact with medications.

While they can be a complementary therapy, they should not replace medical advice or treatment for severe menopausal symptoms.

1. Chaste tree (Vitex agnus-castus)

Vitex agnus-castus, commonly known as chasteberry, is a herbal essential oil often used to support hormonal balance and alleviate symptoms of menopause, including hot flashes.

The essential oil is derived from the flowers of the plant and contains compounds that may influence the pituitary gland, potentially regulating estrogen levels. Studies suggest that vitex may help reduce the frequency and intensity of hot flashes by modulating hormonal fluctuations in women undergoing menopause. When used in aromatherapy or diluted in carrier oils, it can be applied topically or inhaled to provide calming and soothing effects.

However, it is important to consult a healthcare provider before using vitex essential oil, especially for those with existing health conditions or taking medications.

2. Lemon balm (Melissa officinalis)

Melissa officinalis, commonly known as lemon balm, is a popular herb used in the production of essential oils that may help alleviate symptoms of hot flashes in women experiencing menopause.

The essential oil derived from Melissa officinalis is valued for its calming and soothing properties, which can help reduce the frequency and intensity of hot flashes by promoting a sense of relaxation and emotional balance. Studies suggest that the active compounds in lemon balm essential oil, such as rosmarinic acid and flavonoids, may influence the central nervous system and help regulate body temperature. When used aromatically or topically, Melissa officinalis essential oil can provide a natural and gentle approach to managing menopausal symptoms.

However, it is important to consult with a healthcare professional before incorporating essential oils into a treatment regimen, especially for individuals with existing health conditions or those taking medications.

3. Rosemary (Rosmarinus officinalis)

Rosmarinus officinalis, commonly known as rosemary, is a fragrant herb whose essential oil has been explored for its potential to alleviate symptoms of hot flashes, particularly in postmenopausal women.

The essential oil contains compounds such as 1,8-cineole and camphor, which are believed to have calming and regulating effects on the body's hormonal balance. Some studies suggest that aromatherapy using rosemary essential oil may help reduce the frequency and intensity of hot flashes by promoting relaxation and improving mood. When used in diffusers or diluted in carrier oils for topical application, it can provide a soothing sensory experience.

While more research is needed to confirm its efficacy, rosemary essential oil is often considered a natural alternative for managing menopausal symptoms.

4. English lavender (Lavandula angustifolia)

Lavandula angustifolia, commonly known as English lavender, is widely recognized for its calming properties and is often used in aromatherapy to alleviate symptoms of menopause, including hot flashes.

The essential oil extracted from its flowers contains compounds such as linalool and linalyl acetate, which have been shown to have a soothing effect on the nervous system. Studies suggest that inhaling lavender essential oil may help reduce the frequency and intensity of hot flashes by promoting relaxation and reducing stress, which are known contributors to hormonal fluctuations. It is typically used in diffusers, topical applications, or as part of a massage blend to enhance its therapeutic effects.

While more research is needed, many women report positive outcomes from incorporating lavender essential oil into their holistic approach to managing menopausal symptoms.

5. Black cohosh (Cimicifuga racemosa)

Cimicifuga racemosa, commonly known as black cohosh, has been traditionally used to alleviate menopausal symptoms, including hot flashes.

Its essential oils, derived from the root of the plant, contain bioactive compounds such as triterpene glycosides and phenolic acids that may help regulate hormonal imbalances. Studies suggest that these essential oils can reduce the frequency and intensity of hot flashes by modulating the body's thermoregulatory system. However, while some research supports its efficacy, more clinical trials are needed to confirm its safety and long-term effects.

As with any herbal remedy, it is advisable to consult a healthcare professional before use, especially for individuals with existing health conditions or those taking other medications.

6. Stinging nettle (Urtica dioica)

Urtica dioica, commonly known as stinging nettle, contains essential oils that have been studied for their potential to alleviate symptoms of hot flashes in women undergoing menopause.

These essential oils are derived from the leaves and stems of the plant and contain compounds such as flavonoids and polyphenols, which may help regulate hormonal balance and reduce inflammation. Some preliminary research suggests that topical application of stinging nettle essential oil may provide a cooling effect and ease the discomfort associated with hot flashes. However, more clinical studies are needed to confirm its efficacy and safety for long-term use.

As with any herbal remedy, it is advisable to consult a healthcare professional before incorporating urtica dioica essential oils into a treatment regimen for hot flashes.

7. Echinacea (Echinacea purpurea)

Echinacea purpurea, commonly known as purple coneflower, is traditionally used in herbal medicine for its immune-boosting properties.

While it is primarily recognized for its role in supporting the immune system, some studies suggest that its essential oils may have potential benefits for managing symptoms like hot flashes, which are common during menopause. The active compounds in echinacea, such as alkamides and caffeic acid derivatives, may help regulate hormonal fluctuations and reduce inflammatory responses in the body. However, more research is needed to confirm its efficacy and safety for use in treating hot flashes specifically.

As with any herbal remedy, it is advisable to consult a healthcare provider before incorporating echinacea essential oils into a treatment regimen.

8. Turmeric (Curcuma longa)

Curcuma longa, commonly known as turmeric, contains essential oils that have been explored for their potential to alleviate symptoms of hot flashes, which are common during menopause.

These essential oils, extracted through steam distillation, contain bioactive compounds such as curcuminoids and volatile oils that may possess anti-inflammatory and antioxidant properties. Some preliminary studies suggest that these oils might help regulate hormonal imbalances and reduce the frequency and intensity of hot flashes. However, more extensive clinical research is needed to confirm their efficacy and safety for long-term use.

Despite the promising findings, it is advisable to consult a healthcare professional before incorporating curcuma longa essential oils into a treatment regimen for hot flashes.

9. Licorice (Glycyrrhiza glabra)

Glycyrrhiza glabra, commonly known as licorice root, contains various bioactive compounds that may help alleviate symptoms of hot flashes.

The essential oils derived from this herb are believed to possess anti-inflammatory and adaptogenic properties, which can support the body's ability to manage hormonal fluctuations. Some studies suggest that licorice may modulate estrogen receptor activity, potentially reducing the frequency and intensity of hot flashes in menopausal women. However, due to its potential to increase blood pressure, it is important to consult a healthcare provider before using licorice essential oils, especially for individuals with hypertension or heart conditions.

Despite its promising effects, more research is needed to fully understand the efficacy and safety of glycyrrhiza glabra essential oils for hot flashes.

10. Yarrow (Achillea millefolium)

Achillea millefolium, commonly known as yarrow, contains essential oils that have been traditionally used for their calming and anti-inflammatory properties.

These essential oils, derived from the dried flowers and leaves of the plant, may help alleviate symptoms of hot flashes by regulating hormonal imbalances and reducing stress, which are common contributors to menopausal symptoms. Some studies suggest that the compounds in yarrow essential oil, such as chamazulene and bisabolol, possess antioxidant and sedative effects that can support emotional well-being. When used in aromatherapy or diluted topical applications, yarrow essential oil may offer a natural alternative for managing hot flashes.

However, it is important to consult with a healthcare provider before using essential oils, especially for individuals with existing health conditions or those taking medications.