Abdominal massage using two drops of lavender (Lavandula officinalis), one drop of clary sage (Salvia sclarea), and one drop of rose (Rosa centifolia) in 5 mL of almond oil was more effective than no treatment or almond oil alone.

Here are the details.

• 67 college students rated their menstrual cramps to be greater than 6 on a 10-point scale.
• The aromatherapy was associated with less severe menstrual cramping and dysmenorrhea on days 1 and 2 compared to no treatment or almond oil alone.

Got cramps? Get your partner to apply the oil. Do your own clinical trial.

12/17/06 23:27 JR