PMS symptoms can be a real pain, literally. As women, we just don’t have time to stop and deal with brain fog, fatigue, bloating, irritability and depression! I don’t know about you but there is nothing more frustrating then feeling out of sorts with work and struggling not to bark at your children while having little to no control over fixing it. Did you know that PMS symptoms are a sign that your hormones are out of whack? I’ve heard, women who’s hormones are balanced, do not suffer from PMS symptoms. I for one am willing to try anything that will not compromise my health so I decided to do some research to try to create a DIY hormone balancing balm that could ease PMS symptoms as well as help balance my hormones long term.
This balm is a multi-purpose remedy that will benefit you even if it doesn’t relieve PMS. I apply my balm to the bottoms of my feet the minute I start to feel PMS coming on. Once symptoms really kick in, I apply to my stomach to relieve cramps. This balm has turned out to be an effective pain reliever and my feet (despite it being the dead of winter) are soft as a baby’s behind! I believe the combination of ingredients have also helped ease irritability.
You might recall a post I did on Red Raspberry Leaf tea by Earth Mama Angel Baby. I swear by Red Raspberry Leaf after drinking a load of this tea during my 3rd trimester and having a 1 hour labor. Yes, 1 hour-that was not a typo. Red Raspberry Leaf Oil is powerful when it comes to strengthening the uterus. It is also high in vitamin C, magnesium, potassium, iron and b-vitamins. It has been known to ease PMS discomfort, aid in fertility and support the immune system.
DIY Hormone Balancing Balm Ingredients:
Evening Primrose Oil is commonly used to reduce the signs of hormones. In fact, I remember during my teenage years, my mother put me on evening primrose with the hopes of curbing my bad attitude-lol! After researching the benefits of evening primrose oil, I have bought THIS supplement to see if I can find further relief taking it internally. I’ll keep you posted. Evening primrose oil has been known not only to ease the symptoms of PMS, it has also been used to help with infertility, improve skin health and prepare the body for labor (should only be used in the 3rd trimester).
Clary Sage Essential Oil is a powerful oil for women’s health. I will warn you that I find it’s smell to be somewhat offensive. Many don’t though. However, it has been known to be very helpful in relieving menstral pain, balancing estrogen levels and improving sleep. Another benefit of clary sage is that it reduces cortisol levels as well as improves thyroid function. I actually bought clary sage in my 3rd trimester hoping to induce labor (I was 2 weeks late) so if you are pregnant, steer clear of clary sage!
Peppermint Essential Oil can be added for pain relief. If you are experiencing exceptionally bad cramping-I would suggest adding even more peppermint oil to your balm. When peppermint e.o. is applied on top of other oils, it can help push the oils deeper into the skin, making them more effective. I would also suggest you apply your balm then add about 3-5 extra drops of peppermint over the balm.
An optional addition to your balm is Thyme Essential Oil. It has a very strong smell and if too much is added, it will stink up your balm but thyme has been known to be great for hormone health! The benefit of adding thyme to your balm is that it will help improve progesterone production. Low progesterone levels can result in depression, an over-production of estrogen, PCOS and infertility.
DIY Hormone Balancing Balm
- 2 TBSP. Red Raspberry Leaf Oil (find it HERE)
- 2 TBSP. Evening Primrose Oil (find it HERE)
- 1 TBSP. Beeswax (find it HERE)
- 10 drops Peppermint Essential Oil (find it HERE)
- 5 drops Clary Sage Essential Oil (find it HERE)
- 2 drops Thyme Essential Oil (find it HERE) *optional*
Directions:
- Fill a medium sized pot 1/2 way full with water and place a glass measuring cup with a spout in the water.
- Add red raspberry leaf oil, evening primrose oil and beeswax to the glass cup and melt over medium heat.
- Once beeswax is melted, remove from heat and add essential oils.
- Transfer to a 4 ounce glass jar and allow to harden.
To Use:
- Apply to the bottoms of the feet, chest and/or stomach before bedtime.
- This balm can be used daily but I suggest applying during ovulation through the last day of your period.
- For added pain relief, add 3-5 more drops after applying the balm to the lower stomach.
Due to the powerful ingredients in this balm, I do not suggest pregnant women in their 1st or 2nd trimester use this. Use your own judgement in the 3rd trimester-but for sure go get the red raspberry leaf tea!
Note that each oil used in this balm is helpful with infertility. Please share your experience below and I will update on my progress as well! Yay for womanhood!
One more thing, have you tried the Clue app yet? Go HERE for that post but basically it helps you track your period and PMS symptoms. I’ve found it so helpful.
xx, Jenni
P.S. Copy the below pic if you want to label! Use Sticker You (post HERE) or Avery.com.