PCOS NUTRITION CENTER BLOG

Essential oils can provide amazing support for a variety of concerns, both emotional and physical.  These botanical blessings are extracted from various parts of plants, including the petals, leaves and roots.

Each drop contains up to 500 different compounds from the plants’ immune system.  Plants are created to work in harmony with human physiology.

Just think about the human-plant relationship with breathing.  Plants are created to release oxygen, which is then utilized by humans.  We then exhale carbon-dioxide which is taken in by the plants.

Essential oils have an incredible record of safety and are best used alongside a total approach to wellness.  As a holistic nutritionist, I have employed many natural modalities in my wellness programs; the essential oils have truly stood out for simplicity and effectiveness.  When added to your everyday health routine, they can bring about a more rapid shift to wellness.  This sometimes includes instantaneous shifting into a better emotional “place.”

The oils have a long history, including over 400 mentions in Biblical scriptures.

I teach everyday oils use to health care practitioners and individuals in search of simple natural alternatives.  These uses include:

Physical concerns

• joint & ligament support
• head tension
• reaching healthy weight goals
• skin support
• minor aches
• immune support for health all winter long
• stomach support
• respiratory support
• healthy ear support for children

Emotional and cognitive concerns

• promote restful sleep
• soothe nervous tension
• help with the “blues”
• reducing absentmindedness
• increased calming
• increase focus
• mood management
• tantrums

Many oils can be applied directly on the skin or inhaled.  Oils that are labeled for internal use can be added to water or mixed into a food.

For today’s post, I will cover five areas that are of great importance for managing PCOS and overall well-being.

NERVOUS TENSION

Cedarwood is a great oil to promote calm while also helping you to maintain focus.  Put 3 drops onto your palm, gently rub with opposite palm three times in a circle, then cup over nose and inhale.

For additional calming and grounding, a blend such as Tranquil® can be applied to the brain stem (back of the neck and 1” up into the hair line.)  This blend contains lavender, cedarwood and Roman chamomile which together provide for a very soothing experience

SLEEP

To promote restful sleep apply 3 drops of lavender essential oil to the bottoms of each foot when you get into bed.  To deepen the experience, the oil can also be applied to your neck or the center of your chest.

For additional calming, Tranquil® can also soothe pm nervous tension that causes interrupted sleep.  This can be used if you wake up or at bedtime along with the lavender.

LIVER DETOX SUPPORT

It is vital for women with PCOS to give extra TLC to their livers.  This is where excess hormones are processed in such a way that assists the body in eliminating them.  You can support this vital process by applying oils to support liver detox.  Rub dill or Juva Cleanse essential over the liver each night before going to bed.  The body does most of its healing work while we sleep, so that is why I like to recommend this for the nighttime.

BLOOD SUGAR SUPPORT

Supporting healthy blood sugar regulation is essential for maximizing your wellness plan and there are essential oils that can provide additional help working in tandem with everything else you are doing to reach your goals.  Try adding 1 drop of Ocotea essential oil to your smoothie or put 1 drop under your tongue.  You may experience the surprising “side effect” of reduced cravings as well!

ABDOMINAL MASSAGE

Many women with PCOS find it very helpful to massage a body nurturing tonic blend into the abdomen on a daily basis. This can help reduce pain and restore hormone balance.

You can make your own blend by mixing 10 drops clary sage, 10 drops fennel, and 5 drops of geranium into 4 tablespoons of a carrier such as grapeseed oil.

Allow yourself to have a “time-out” and gently massage 1 teaspoon of this blend into your abdomen with prayer and/or intention.  The oils know what to do but are so much more effective when applied in a soothing way accompanied by nurturing thoughts. This is a wonderful opportunity for women with PCOS to practice self care.

Final Thoughts

The recommendations made here are only true for pure therapeutic grade oils.  University research is revealing that 75% of essential oils on the market are adulterated.  This is even true for bottles from reputable companies sold on-line by professional re-bottlers who open, dilute, and re-bottle. To be on the safe side purchase directly from a company’s site.

If you find yourself “falling in love” with a particular oil, alternate with similar-effect oils; this will help to avoid developing a sensitivity to your favorite oil.  You can prevent skin sensitivity by diluting your oil.

Marie Ruggles MS, RD, CN, is an award winning author and lifestyle wellness program facilitator. Marie provides quality essential oils and support for learning effective ways to make the most of these botanical blessings. For oils purchase and education: www.OilsbyMarie.com. Weekly Essential Oil Tips:  www.marieruggles.com For RDs:   www.EssentialOils4RDs.com