Painful Periods: Dysmenorrhea and Essential oils – Part II
Modern Treatment Strategies Nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs are the first line of treatment by clinical specialists for Primary dysmenorrhea (PD). The most commonly used NSAIDS for menstrual pain are aspirin, ibuprofen, mefenamic acid and naproxen. They work to reduce pain in dysmenorrhea by inhibiting the action of cycooxygenase (COX), an enzyme responsible for prostaglandin production. There…
Ritual for Inner Beauty and Emotional Wellness
October marks Emotional Wellness Month, which raises awareness about the importance of mental well-being. It is incredibly necessary to honor this in a society where 1 in 4 people suffer from a diagnosed mental illness, yet where the conversation around mental health is still stigmatized and those struggling can feel isolated and alone. In the…
Painful Menstruation: Dysmenorrhea and Essential Oils – Part I
Dysmenorrhea Dysmenorrhea, the term for painful periods, is derived from the Greek words dys (difficult, painful, or abnormal), meno (month), and rrhea (flow). Cathleen Morrow and Betsy Naumburg, authors of the excellent chapter “Dysmenorrhea” in Women’s HealthPrimary Care: Clinics in Office Practice, offer a thorough introduction to the topic. Primary dysmenorrhea is a gynecological condition…
Pumpkin And Spice Body Butter
October is one of my favorite months of the year. The weather is chilly but not quite cold, and the leaves on the trees turn into the most stunning colors. Nature is breathtaking. Along with seasonal change, I know my mind and my body can both use some kind of a boost. Fall is the…
Essential Oil Allies: Valerian
Valerian essential oil is obtained by steam distilling the roots and rhizomes of the perennial herb Valeriana officinalis. The resulting essential oil is an amber-brown that gets darker with age. It is often grown and distilled for its essence in Belgium, France, the Netherlands, Germany, Russia and China. The plant is classified as one of…
Aromatic Tummy Gummies
Be creative with the recipe by adding in different hydrosols with different fruits. I made some gummies this summer with nettle hydrosol and a bit of honey (approx. 1/8 cup) to sweeten them up a bit. Yummy! Other hydrosols to consider: Rose (Rosa damascena), Peppermint (Mentha x piperita), or Spearmint (Menta spicata). Can also add…