Last updated: Jul 10, 2024
10 best herbal essential oils for endometriosis
Herbal essential oils for endometriosis are a natural approach to managing the symptoms of this chronic condition.
These potent plant extracts have anti-inflammatory, antioxidant, and hormonal-balancing properties that help alleviate pain, cramps, and mood swings associated with endometriosis. Examples of beneficial herbal essential oils include Clary Sage, which reduces anxiety and stress; Ginger, which eases menstrual cramps; and Lavender, which promotes relaxation and sleep.
By incorporating these oils into one's daily routine through aromatherapy, massage, or topical application, individuals with endometriosis can experience significant relief, improved mood, and enhanced quality of life.
The following article describes in detail the most important essential oils for endometriosis, including medicinal properties, parts of herbs to use, and recipes for preparations.
1. Angelica archangelica
Angelica essential oils helps with endometriosis because of its natural anti-inflammatory and antispasmodic properties.
The oil contains angelic acid, which has been shown to reduce inflammation and alleviate menstrual cramps, two common symptoms associated with endometriosis. Additionally, the oil's ability to relax smooth muscle tissue can help to ease painful menstruation and pelvic pain.
By promoting relaxation and reducing inflammation, angelica essential oils may help to improve overall symptom management for individuals with endometriosis.
The list below shows the primary active constituents in angelica essential oils that aid with endometriosis.
- Antispasmodic property: Relieves cramping, spasms, and discomfort associated with endometrial implants and adhesions by relaxing the uterine muscles.
- Anti-inflammatory property: Reduces inflammation and swelling in the pelvic area, which may help alleviate symptoms such as pelvic pain, heavy bleeding, and painful periods.
- Hormone-balancing property: May help regulate hormonal imbalances that can contribute to endometriosis by modulating estrogen levels and improving overall reproductive health.
The list below shows the primary parts of angelica used to make essential oils for endometriosis.
- Roots: Angelica roots are used due to their high content of volatile oil, which helps to reduce inflammation and alleviate symptoms associated with endometriosis.
- Rhyzomes: The rhizome of the angelica plant is rich in sesquiterpenes, which have anti-inflammatory properties that can help to soothe menstrual cramps and pain.
The following recipe gives a procedure to make a basic angelica for endometriosis.
- Harvest fresh or dried angelica archangelica roots and leaves in sufficient quantity for distillation.
- Clean and prepare the plant material by washing it thoroughly and removing any debris.
- Steam-distill the plant material using a still or a small-scale apparatus at 100°c for 2 hours.
- Collect the essential oil that separates from the steam distillation process and transfer it to dark glass containers.
- Allow the essential oil to mature in storage for at least 24 hours before use to enhance its therapeutic properties.
2. Valeriana officinalis
Valerian essential oils helps with endometriosis because of its ability to promote relaxation, reduce inflammation, and alleviate menstrual cramps.
The calming properties of valerian oil can help regulate hormone balance, which is often disrupted in individuals with endometriosis. Additionally, valerian's anti-inflammatory compounds may help reduce pelvic pain and discomfort associated with the condition.
By incorporating valerian essential oils into one's self-care routine, women with endometriosis may experience a significant reduction in symptoms, leading to improved overall well-being and quality of life.
The list below shows the primary active constituents in valerian essential oils that aid with endometriosis.
- Relaxation and sedative properties: Valerian essential oil has a calming effect on the body, which can help to reduce anxiety and stress that often accompanies endometriosis symptoms.
- Anti-inflammatory properties: Valerian essential oil has anti-inflammatory compounds that can help to reduce inflammation and pain associated with endometriosis, thereby alleviating symptoms such as cramping and heavy bleeding.
- Antispasmodic properties: Valerian essential oil can help to relax the uterine muscles and alleviate spasms, which can contribute to menstrual cramps, backaches, and other pelvic discomforts commonly experienced by individuals with endometriosis.
The list below shows the primary parts of valerian used to make essential oils for endometriosis.
- Roots: The roots are used to make valerian oil, which helps to reduce inflammation and alleviate menstrual cramps associated with endometriosis.
- Flowers: Valerian flowers contain a high concentration of bioactive compounds that have anti-inflammatory and antioxidant properties, making them effective for managing symptoms of endometriosis.
The following recipe gives a procedure to make a basic valerian for endometriosis.
- Harvest fresh valerian roots in early morning dew or after a light rain shower weighing about 2-3 pounds.
- Clean the harvested roots by rinsing them gently under cold running water and scrubbing off any dirt debris.
- Dry the cleaned roots by spreading them out on paper towels or clean cloth for at least 7 days to reduce moisture content.
- Steam distill the dried valerian roots using a steam distillation apparatus with 2 cups of water and 1 cup of valerian root material.
- Collect the resulting essential oil by condensing the steam vapor into a container within 2 hours of distillation.
3. Melissa officinalis
Lemon balm essential oils helps with endometriosis because of its natural anti-inflammatory properties, which can help alleviate symptoms such as pelvic pain and cramping.
The oil's calming effects can also ease anxiety and stress, common comorbidities with endometriosis. Additionally, lemon balm has been shown to regulate hormonal imbalances, a key factor in endometriosis development.
By promoting relaxation, reducing inflammation, and balancing hormones, lemon balm essential oils may provide relief from endometriosis symptoms, improving overall quality of life for those affected.
The list below shows the primary active constituents in lemon balm essential oils that aid with endometriosis.
- Antispasmodic property: Lemon balm essential oil helps to relax the uterine muscles, reducing cramps and spasms associated with endometriosis.
- Anti-inflammatory property: Lemon balm essential oil has anti-inflammatory compounds that may help reduce inflammation in the pelvic region, which can alleviate symptoms such as pain, bloating, and heavy bleeding common in endometriosis.
- Antioxidant property: Lemon balm essential oil's antioxidant properties may help protect the body from damage caused by free radicals, which can contribute to oxidative stress and inflammation that can exacerbate endometriosis symptoms.
The list below shows the primary parts of lemon balm used to make essential oils for endometriosis.
- Roots: The roots of lemon balm contain flavonoids and phenolic acids, which have anti-inflammatory properties that can help alleviate endometriosis symptoms.
- Leaves: Lemon balm leaves contain a high concentration of rosmarinic acid, a natural compound that has been shown to reduce inflammation and improve menstrual cramps associated with endometriosis.
The following recipe gives a procedure to make a basic lemon balm for endometriosis.
- Harvest fresh melissa officinalis leaves at dawn when the dew is still present.
- Steam distill the harvested leaves in a copper still at 100°c for 3 hours.
- Combine the resulting oil with a carrier oil such as coconut or jojoba using a ratio of 3%.
- Store the finished essential oil in a dark glass bottle with a tight-fitting cap for up to 6 months.
- Use the essential oil in a diffuser at a dilution rate of 1-2% and inhale deeply three times daily.
4. Cymbopogon citratus
Lemongrass essential oils helps with endometriosis because of its potent anti-inflammatory properties that ease menstrual cramps, bloating, and pelvic pain.
Its antioxidant-rich composition also helps reduce oxidative stress and inflammation in the body, which can alleviate symptoms such as heavy bleeding and mood swings.
Additionally, lemongrass oil's calming and relaxing effects can promote a sense of well-being and reduce anxiety, making it an effective natural remedy for managing endometriosis-related discomforts.
The list below shows the primary active constituents in lemongrass essential oils that aid with endometriosis.
- Anti-inflammatory property: Lemongrass essential oil has potent anti-inflammatory compounds that can help reduce inflammation and pain associated with endometriosis.
- Antioxidant property: Lemongrass essential oil's antioxidant properties can help protect the body from oxidative stress and damage caused by free radicals, which can exacerbate symptoms of endometriosis.
- Muscle relaxant property: Lemongrass essential oil has a calming effect on the muscles and can help relax uterine cramps, menstrual cramps, and other muscle spasms associated with endometriosis.
The list below shows the primary parts of lemongrass used to make essential oils for endometriosis.
- Roots: Rich in bioactive compounds, lemongrass roots have anti-inflammatory and antioxidant properties that can help alleviate symptoms of endometriosis.
- Rhyzomes: The rhyzomes of lemongrass contain citral, a natural compound that has been shown to reduce pain and inflammation associated with endometriosis.
The following recipe gives a procedure to make a basic lemongrass for endometriosis.
- Harvest fresh cymbopogon citratus leaves in the morning when dew is still present on the leaves for optimal oil content.
- Clean and dry the harvested leaves by gently brushing off dirt and excess moisture using a clean cloth within 30 minutes.
- Steam distill 200g of cleaned cymbopogon citratus leaves with 1l of water at 100°c for 4-6 hours to extract essential oil.
- Collect and filter the extracted oil through a coffee filter or cheesecloth to remove impurities and sediment within 30 minutes.
- Store the filtered essential oil in dark glass bottles with tight-fitting lids, labeling the date and contents, at room temperature for up to 2 years.
5. Matricaria chamomilla
Chamomile essential oils helps with endometriosis because of its natural anti-inflammatory properties, which reduce swelling and discomfort associated with the condition.
The oil's soothing effects on the uterus and surrounding tissues can alleviate cramps, bloating, and pelvic pain, allowing for a more comfortable period experience. Additionally, chamomile's calming properties promote relaxation and reduce stress levels, common triggers of endometriosis flares.
By incorporating chamomile essential oils into one's self-care routine, individuals with endometriosis can find natural relief from their symptoms and improve overall well-being.
The list below shows the primary active constituents in chamomile essential oils that aid with endometriosis.
- Anti-inflammatory property: Chamomile's anti-inflammatory property helps to reduce inflammation and pain associated with endometriosis, making it an effective natural remedy for relieving menstrual cramps.
- Anxiolytic (anxiety-reducing) property: Chamomile's ability to calm the nervous system can help alleviate anxiety and stress, which are common symptoms of endometriosis, promoting a sense of relaxation and reducing emotional discomfort.
- Hormone-regulating property: Chamomile has been shown to have a balancing effect on hormonal fluctuations, which can help regulate menstrual cycles and reduce symptoms associated with polycystic ovary syndrome (PCOS), a common comorbidity with endometriosis.
The list below shows the primary parts of chamomile used to make essential oils for endometriosis.
- Roots: The roots of the chamomile plant contain apigenin, a flavonoid with anti-inflammatory and analgesic properties that can help alleviate pain and inflammation associated with endometriosis.
- Flowers: Chamomile flowers are rich in alpha-bisabolol, an sesquiterpene lactone that exhibits anti-inflammatory, antimicrobial, and antioxidant activities, making them effective in reducing symptoms of endometriosis such as cramps and bloating.
The following recipe gives a procedure to make a basic chamomile for endometriosis.
- Harvest matricaria chamomilla flowers at dawn or early morning when they are most potent and fragrant.
- Dry the harvested flowers in a well-ventilated area out of direct sunlight for 7-10 days to preserve their potency.
- Combine 100g dried matricaria chamomilla flowers with 500ml carrier oil such as sweet almond or jojoba oil in a clean glass jar.
- Steep the mixture at room temperature for 2 weeks, shaking the jar daily to ensure even infusion of essential oils and plant extracts.
- Filter the infused oil through cheesecloth or a coffee filter into another clean glass container discarding the solids and store the herbal essential oil in dark glass bottles.
6. Paeonia lactiflora
Chinese peony essential oils helps with endometriosis because its unique composition of sesquiterpenes, flavonoids, and terpenes can alleviate symptoms such as cramps, bloating, and heavy bleeding.
The oil's anti-inflammatory properties help to reduce pain and inflammation in the pelvic area, while its antispasmodic effects relax uterine contractions, easing menstrual cramps. Additionally, peony essential oil's estrogen-balancing properties may also help to regulate hormonal imbalances that contribute to endometriosis.
As a result, using Chinese peony essential oils can provide natural relief from the debilitating symptoms of endometriosis.
The list below shows the primary active constituents in chinese peony essential oils that aid with endometriosis.
- Anti-inflammatory properties: Help reduce inflammation and alleviate symptoms such as pelvic pain, cramping, and heavy bleeding associated with endometriosis.
- Antioxidant properties: Neutralize free radicals and prevent oxidative stress, which can contribute to the development of endometrial lesions and adhesions in women with endometriosis.
- Hormone-balancing properties: Help regulate hormonal imbalances, particularly estrogen dominance, which is a common underlying cause of endometriosis by promoting progesterone production and reducing estrogen levels.
The list below shows the primary parts of chinese peony used to make essential oils for endometriosis.
- Roots: Rich in bioactive compounds that help alleviate symptoms of endometriosis, such as pelvic pain and heavy bleeding.
- Rhyzomes: Contains paeoniflorin, a key compound that reduces inflammation and relaxes uterine muscle contractions.
The following recipe gives a procedure to make a basic chinese peony for endometriosis.
- Harvest fresh paeonia lactiflora flowers at dawn on a sunny day in june, ensuring a minimum of 2 kilograms for the batch.
- Dry the harvested flowers using a food dehydrator set to low heat for 24 hours, monitoring temperature and humidity levels closely.
- Combine the dried flowers with carrier oil such as sweet almond oil at a ratio of 1:3, steeping for 4 weeks in a dark glass container.
- Strain the mixture through cheesecloth and decant into a clean dark glass bottle, leaving behind the herbal solids and preserving the essential oil-rich liquid.
- Allow the oil to mature for an additional 2 months before use, shaking the bottle daily to ensure even distribution of the essential compounds.
7. Vaccinium macrocarpon
Highbush cranberry essential oils helps with endometriosis because of its potent anti-inflammatory and antioxidant properties.
The oil's active compounds, such as flavonoids and phenolic acids, have been shown to reduce inflammation and oxidative stress in the body, which can alleviate symptoms associated with endometriosis, including pelvic pain, heavy bleeding, and mood swings.
Additionally, highbush cranberry essential oils may help regulate hormone imbalances and improve overall uterine health, providing relief from debilitating symptoms and improving quality of life for women affected by this chronic condition.
The list below shows the primary active constituents in highbush cranberry essential oils that aid with endometriosis.
- Anti-inflammatory properties: Highbush Cranberry essential oil has been shown to reduce inflammation, which is a primary factor in the development and progression of endometriosis.
- Antioxidant properties: The antioxidant compounds present in Highbush Cranberry essential oil help to neutralize free radicals that contribute to oxidative stress, which is often elevated in women with endometriosis.
- Uterine tonic properties: Highbush Cranberry essential oil has been traditionally used to tonify the uterus and regulate menstrual cycles, which is particularly important for women experiencing irregular or heavy bleeding due to endometriosis.
The list below shows the primary parts of highbush cranberry used to make essential oils for endometriosis.
- Roots: Rich in antioxidants and anti-inflammatory compounds, making them effective in reducing inflammation and pain associated with endometriosis.
- Rhyzomes: Contain bioactive compounds that help regulate hormone imbalances and alleviate symptoms of endometriosis.
The following recipe gives a procedure to make a basic highbush cranberry for endometriosis.
- Harvest 50 grams of dried vaccinium macrocarpon berries at dawn on a full moon day for maximum potency.
- Combine the berries with 100 milliliters of high-proof grain alcohol in a clean glass jar sealed tightly for six weeks.
- Store the mixture in a cool dark place away from direct sunlight and heat sources for six weeks allowing maceration.
- Strain the liquid through cheesecloth or a coffee filter into another glass container discarding solids and set aside to settle for two hours.
- Transfer the clear liquid to a distillation apparatus or a small still using water as condenser medium at 100 degrees celsius for one hour.
8. Ginkgo biloba
Maidenhair tree essential oils helps with endometriosis because its unique composition has anti-inflammatory and antioxidant properties that can effectively alleviate symptoms such as pelvic pain, heavy bleeding, and digestive issues.
The oil's ability to reduce inflammation and oxidative stress may help minimize the severity of endometrial cysts and adhesions, while its relaxing and calming effects can promote a sense of well-being and reduce anxiety.
By addressing these underlying factors, maidenhair tree essential oils may provide natural relief from endometriosis symptoms.
The list below shows the primary active constituents in maidenhair tree essential oils that aid with endometriosis.
- Clary sage oil (salvia sclarea): Contains linalool and linalyl acetate, which have anti-inflammatory and analgesic properties, helping to reduce menstrual cramps and discomfort.
- Frankincense oil (boswellia serrata): Rich in boswellic acids, which exhibit anti-inflammatory and antioxidant effects, potentially reducing inflammation and pain associated with endometriosis.
- Lavender oil (lavandula angustifolia): Contains linalool, which has a calming effect on the nervous system, helping to reduce anxiety, stress, and discomfort during menstruation.
The list below shows the primary parts of maidenhair tree used to make essential oils for endometriosis.
- Roots: Rich in bioactive compounds, the roots of the maidenhair tree have been traditionally used to treat gynecological issues, making them a valuable source of essential oil for endometriosis relief.
- Barks: The barks of the maidenhair tree contain flavonoids and terpenes that help alleviate menstrual cramps, bloating, and other symptoms associated with endometriosis.
The following recipe gives a procedure to make a basic maidenhair tree for endometriosis.
- Harvest fresh ginkgo biloba leaves from mature trees in the morning when dew is still present.
- Dry the harvested leaves by spreading them in a single layer on paper towels or clean cloth for 3-5 days.
- Chop the dried leaves into smaller pieces and place them in a clean glass jar with a lid.
- Combine 1 part chopped ginkgo biloba leaves with 2 parts carrier oil such as jojoba or sweet almond oil and store for 2 weeks shaking daily.
- Strain the mixture through cheesecloth or a coffee filter into another clean glass jar discarding solids and store in dark glass container.
9. Artemisia absinthium
Wormwood essential oils helps with endometriosis because of its natural anti-inflammatory and antispasmodic properties.
The oil's active compounds, such as thujone and camphor, have been shown to reduce inflammation in the uterus and surrounding tissues, alleviating symptoms like pelvic pain, cramps, and heavy bleeding associated with endometriosis. Additionally, wormwood essential oils may help regulate hormone production, which can contribute to the development of endometrial growths.
By promoting a healthy balance of hormones and reducing inflammation, wormwood essential oil may provide relief for women suffering from this chronic condition.
The list below shows the primary active constituents in wormwood essential oils that aid with endometriosis.
- Antioxidant properties: Wormwood essential oil has potent antioxidant activity, which can help reduce oxidative stress and inflammation associated with endometriosis, a condition characterized by chronic inflammation and damage to healthy tissue.
- Anti-inflammatory properties: The essential oil's anti-inflammatory compounds may help alleviate symptoms such as pain, cramping, and heavy bleeding common in endometriosis patients by reducing inflammation and swelling in the pelvic area.
- Uterine tonic properties: Wormwood has been traditionally used to regulate menstruation and ease uterine spasms, which can help alleviate symptoms of endometriosis such as menstrual cramps, irregular periods, and heavy bleeding.
The list below shows the primary parts of wormwood used to make essential oils for endometriosis.
- Roots: Wormwood roots contain sesquiterpenes and flavonoids, which have anti-inflammatory and antioxidant properties that can help reduce inflammation and pain associated with endometriosis.
- Leaves: The leaves of the wormwood plant are rich in thujone, a compound known for its analgesic and antispasmodic effects, making it effective in relieving menstrual cramps and discomfort.
The following recipe gives a procedure to make a basic wormwood for endometriosis.
- Harvest artemisia absinthium leaves in full bloom at dawn when dew is still present on the plant for optimal potency.
- Dry the harvested leaves using a food dehydrator set at 55 degrees celsius for eight hours or until brittle.
- Chop the dried artemisia absinthium leaves into small pieces and store them in an airtight container for future use.
- Create a solvent mixture by combining 200 milliliters of high-quality carrier oil such as sweet almond oil with 20 grams of dried artemisia absinthium leaves for a 1:5 ratio.
- Allow the solvent mixture to steep at room temperature for 21 days or until the essential oil has been fully extracted and separated from plant material.
10. Crataegus monogyna
Hawthorn essential oils helps with endometriosis because of its ability to reduce inflammation, ease menstrual cramps, and promote hormonal balance.
The anti-inflammatory properties of hawthorn oil can help alleviate the chronic pelvic pain and discomfort associated with endometriosis. Additionally, its sedative and antispasmodic properties can help relax the uterine muscles, reducing cramping and spasms.
By promoting hormonal equilibrium, hawthorn oil may also help regulate menstrual cycles and reduce symptoms of endometriosis-related irregularities.
The list below shows the primary active constituents in hawthorn essential oils that aid with endometriosis.
- Antioxidant properties: Hawthorn berries contain powerful antioxidants that help reduce inflammation and oxidative stress in the body, which can contribute to endometriosis symptoms such as pain, cramps, and heavy bleeding.
- Vasodilatory properties: The flavonoids present in Hawthorn berries have been shown to dilate blood vessels and improve blood flow, which may help alleviate symptoms of endometriosis such as pelvic congestion, pain, and heavy bleeding.
- Hormone-balancing properties: Hawthorn has been traditionally used to support hormone regulation, which may help reduce symptoms associated with endometriosis, such as PMS, irregular periods, and hormonal imbalances.
The list below shows the primary parts of hawthorn used to make essential oils for endometriosis.
- Roots: The roots of the Hawthorn plant contain bioflavonoids, which have anti-inflammatory and antioxidant properties, making them effective in reducing inflammation and pain associated with endometriosis.
- Leaves: The leaves of the Hawthorn plant are rich in antioxidants and flavonoids, which help to reduce oxidative stress and alleviate symptoms such as cramping, bloating, and mood swings.
The following recipe gives a procedure to make a basic hawthorn for endometriosis.
- Harvest dried hawthorn berries in bulk quantities for sufficient extraction.
- Combine one part dried hawthorn berries with two parts carrier oil such as coconut or olive oil.
- Steam distill the mixture at a moderate temperature of 100°c for four hours.
- Filter the resulting essential oil from the carrier oil using paper filters and decantation.
- Bottle and store the high-quality crataegus monogyna essential oil in dark glass containers with tight-fitting lids.
How to best treat endometriosis with herbal essential oils?
The best way to treat endometriosis with herbal essential oils is by combining Clary Sage and Bergamot oils to reduce inflammation and anxiety.
Add a few drops of Frankincense oil to soothe the uterus and ease cramps. Apply topically to the lower abdomen or inhale through steam inhalation. Additionally, use Turmeric oil to reduce pain and inflammation.
Always dilute essential oils in a carrier oil and consult with a healthcare professional before using them for therapeutic purposes.
What ailments similar to endometriosis are treated with herbal essential oils?
Ailments similar to endometriosis that are treated with herbal essential oils are fibroids, adenomyosis, and PCOS.
These conditions often exhibit symptoms such as pelvic pain, heavy bleeding, and hormonal imbalances, which can be alleviated by the therapeutic properties of certain essential oils.
For example, clary sage oil has been known to reduce stress and anxiety/essential-oils.html">anxiety, while geranium oil helps regulate hormones and balance female reproductive systems.