DavidWolfe.comFor women, turning 40 can mean a lot of things. It can be stressful, scary or exciting. Most of all, it’s usually a sign of changes to come. Many women first start experiencing hot flashes and increased stressed levels in their 40’s. Taking care of your body is the best way to keep your health on track. There is one important essential oil that all women over 40 should know about: Clary sage oil.
The Health Benefits of Clary Sage Essential Oil
1. It Prevents Infections
In a 2015 study, researchers found that clary sage can be used as a topical treatment for wounds and skin infections, thanks to its antiseptic properties (1). Clary sage is also a natural antimicrobial. The study found that it had the ability to fight against bacterial strains that can affect wounds.
2. It Alleviates Menstrual Pain
Clary sage essential oil helps balance hormone levels in the body, which can work wonders for PMS symptoms. It can help reduce bloating, mood swings, cramps and food cravings. Clary oil is also a natural antispasmodic, so it can help minimize the spasms and contractions that occur when the uterine lining begins to shed, which often causes pain (2).
3. It Balances Hormones
Clary sage essential oil contains natural phytoestrogens that are derived from plants. These phytoestrogens help regulate estrogen levels in the body and protect the long-term health of the uterus. Excess estrogen can cause many health problems, including infertility, estrogen-based cancers and polycystic ovaries. Clary sage oil helps balance estrogen to make sure levels aren’t too high (3).
4. It Relieves Stress
Whether it’s kids, a demanding job or the changes your body is going through, your 40’s can be a stressful time. Clary sage essential oil has been shown to reduce fear and anxiety. A 2010 study found that the oil can even be used as a therapeutic agent for depression (4).
5. It Aids In Digestion
Clary sage has the ability to increase the secretion of bile and gastric juice to speed up the metabolism. This helps to relieve indigestion, bloating, cramps and other digestive issues. Clary sage essential oil also promotes the absorption of vitamins and minerals in the body, regulates bowel movements and can even help eliminate constipation.
6. It Improves Skin
A compound in clary sage essential oil known as linalyl acetate is a natural phytochemical often found in spice plants and flowers. It has the ability to reduce skin inflammation and rashes. It also helps regulate oil production to prevent both dry skin and acne breakouts (5). Using clary sage as a skin moisturizer can help keep your skim firm, hydrated and clear to reduce signs of aging.
7. It Improves Circulation
Clary sage essential oil is a great natural remedy to get your blood pumping and circulating properly throughout your body. It opens up the blood vessels and lowers blood pressure by relaxing both the brain and the arteries. This allows more oxygen to flow to your muscles and vital organs.
8. It Aids In Sleep
Clary sage essential oil has natural sedative properties that can be used to help you get a better night’s rest. The oil promotes a deeper sleep by reducing stress and balancing hormone levels. It can be used as a natural and effective cure for insomnia.