PCOS: Essential Oils and Natural Remedies for Hormonal Balance

Polycystic ovary syndrome, or PCOS, isn't just a medical term—it's a reality for millions of women worldwide. From as early as age 12 and continuing throughout their lives, approximately 8% to 13% of women are affected. It's a condition that can throw you a curveball in the most unexpected ways.

The symptoms can vary widely, from acne to thinning hair or hair loss, periods that never seem to follow the rules, exhaustion, mood changes, and even sleep problems. The toll isn't just physical; the emotional and psychological impact can't be underestimated. Dealing with visible symptoms can feel overwhelming, not to mention the pressure to conform to societal beauty standards.

The exact cause of PCOS remains a mystery, but it's like a recipe with a pinch of genetics and a dash of environmental factors thrown in. Hormonal imbalance, insulin resistance, type 2 diabetes, and a family history of PCOS all play their parts.

PCOS isn't a one-size-fits-all condition. Each woman's journey with PCOS is unique, with its own set of ups and downs. While you may feel confused or alone, it's comforting to know that other women understand what you're going through.

While there is currently no cure, the good news is that adopting a holistic view of your lifestyle may help reduce your chances of developing PCOS or improve your symptoms. It is also exciting to know that research has been released that supports natural remedies and essential oils that work against the PCOS mechanism and may help ease symptoms.

Natural Remedies Effective in the Treatment of PCOS:

Numerous studies throughout the years have shown the significant role of herbal remedies (with minimal side effects) in managing PCOS. One hero is Chaste Tree Berries, also known as the “Woman’s herb.” These berries have been shown to help balance hormones and support healthy menstrual cycles in women with PCOS. To unlock its power, try this powerful DIY Hormone-Soothing infusion:

Chaste Tree Berry Infusion:

Ingredients:

1 teaspoon Chaste Tree Berries

1 teaspoon dried Chamomile flowers

1 teaspoon dried Spearmint leaves

1 teaspoon dried Fennel seed

2 cups freshly boiled water

Instructions:

1. Place all the dried ingredients in a heatproof, 500ml teapot.
2. Bring water to a boil and pour it over the ingredients above.
3. Allow the berries to steep in the hot water for 10-15 minutes to extract their beneficial compounds.
4. Strain the infusion into a cup using a fine-mesh sieve or tea strainer.
5. Sip and enjoy this soothing infusion, which may help balance hormones, reduce inflammation, and support sleep and menstrual health. You can drink this infusion up to two times daily for optimal benefits.

Here are some essential oils you can also incorporate into your daily routine to help support hormonal balance and overall well-being.

Stress and Anxiety Relief:

• Lavender oil
• Ylang-ylang oil
• Bergamot oil
• Geranium oil

Hormone Regulation and Menstrual Support:

• Clary sage oil

Acne Treatment and Skin Health:

• Tea tree oil

Hair Growth and Scalp Health:

• Rosemary oil

Inflammation Reduction and Immune Support:

• Frankincense oil

Remember, there's no one-size-fits-all approach to managing PCOS. It's essential to find what works best for you and your unique body. And while dealing with PCOS can be challenging, it's also an opportunity to prioritise self-care and explore natural remedies that can make a real difference in your life. So, embrace the journey, laugh a little, and know that you're not alone in this journey! 

If you suspect you have PCOS or experience any of these symptoms, we recommend consulting a healthcare provider for proper evaluation and personalised guidance, especially when it comes to managing a complex condition like PCOS.