Aromatherapy for Sexual Dysfunction and Reproductive Problems

Origins of Sexual Problems

         Sexual problems like impotence, infertility and frigidity often are related to a psychological problem that has established itself from stress related conditions. The loss of physical sexual function can also create its own set of emotional responses, which can also lead to stress, depression and anxiety.

         Libido problems like frigidity (Anorgasmia), impotence and retarded ejaculation can result from emotional frustration or negative feelings, causing a loss in sexual appetite. Usually when the emotional problems are resolved, the libido and function will return. In the cases of frigidity and retarded ejaculation, longer time spent in foreplay and different sexual positions may help bring a solution. Vaginismus, which is the involuntary spasm of the vaginal muscles, is often linked to overwhelming feelings of fear, often a result of trauma or a violent sexual experience. Sometimes vaginismus can be a result of lack of sexual experience, which may cause fear of sexual intercourse. All of these sexual problems can result in infertility as conception is less likely to occur if there is a problem with one or both partner’s sexual function. Stress can affect the menstrual cycle, attributing to conditions such as amenorrhea (scanty or total lack of menstruation), dysmenorrhea (uterine cramps during menstruation) and menorrhagia (an excessive menstrual flow with uterine cramps) which can also affect a woman’s ability to conceive.

      In all of these cases of sexual dysfunction, there needs to be a supportive, sympathetic, co-operative partner in the relationship. Establishing intimacy and trust is also very important. Aromatherapy can help when used in aromatic baths or massage, which in themselves are intimate experiences. Aromatic bathing and massage can help relax and open the way for sexual communication between two people. Massage can be a sensual experience and a part of foreplay.

Aromatherapy, blocked energy and sexual dysfunction

Another aspect to consider when dealing with a sexual problem is the body’s energy system. The chakra often connected to sexuality is the sacral chakra. The sacral chakra is located between the genitals and the naval. Blockages in this chakra can manifest as psycho-sexual ills. Psychologically, the sacral chakra it is orientated to our self gratification, physical comfort, satisfaction and sexuality. From the sacral chakra, we regulate our feelings and our emotional expressions. The gonads are located within the sacral chakra. The sacral chakra is the sphere of desires, physical pleasures and happiness. It is also the home of the five senses. We are connected to our feelings and our sense of physical balance through this chakra. When the sacral chakra is blocked, you may feel that the body’s own natural ease and balance is lost- instead it is replaced with awkwardness. When the blockage in this chakra is released, there will also be a release of long held back emotions, and physically the body will move again with fluid gracefulness.

Aromatherapy oils commonly associated with the sacral chakra are; ylang ylang, jasmine, patchouli, sandalwood, rose, frankincense, chamomile, vetiver, myrrh, cinnamon, black pepper and cedarwood. Using  essential oils to unblock chakras work with the idea that the oil’s individual vibrational pattern will impart itself into the chakra, making the chakra imitate the vibration, bringing balance back to that individual chakra.

Essential Oils for Sexual Dysfunction, Disorders and reproductive Problems.

Essential Oils that can help improve sexual function and treat disorders that stem from both physical and emotional causes are;

Sandalwood is a potent aphrodisiac, promoting feelings of sensuality and encouraging emotional openness within relationships. Helpful for understanding and honesty in all aspects of love by supporting feelings of togetherness and stability. Medicinally, sandalwood can treat disorders of the urinary system; Cystitis, urinary infections and the reproductive system; herpes, impotence, thrush, and vaginal pruritus. Sandalwood is a tonic to the reproductive organs

  Patchouli helps decrease inhibitions, and allows a person to communicate clearly on both a physical and emotional level. Patchouli is a useful aid in seduction, helping those who are oversensitive to release sexual fears.

 Ylang Ylang As an aphrodisiac, Ylang Ylang enhances attraction between lovers, enhances feelings of ‘togetherness’, sensuality, tenderness and increases the libido. Ylang Ylang is a good choice for treating feelings of sexual inadequacy.

Jasmine is a fragrant emblem of love; its sensual character brings romance, strength and warmth to relationships. It is a strong sensual stimulant. Jasmine boosts self confidence and enhances feelings of self worth. Jasmine medicinally treats disorders and conditions of the reproductive system such as; dysmenorrhea, impotence, frigidity, labour pains and uterine disorders.

 Cardamom A reputed aphrodisiac, cardamom enhances feelings of sensuality and provides confidence to those who may have judgemental feelings or feelings of uneasiness concerning their own bodies, or who may be distrustful due to experiences from the past.

Clary Sage is an oil that can decrease inhibitions. Mildly intoxicating, Clary sage counteracts feelings of negativity and arouses the emotions, giving a sense of well-being. An effective oil for anxiety or for tackling phobias as clary sage helps to dissolve these negative feelings. Clary Sage also helps to regulate and balance hormones and can be of assistance to; amenorrhea, labour pains, dysmenorrhea, leukorrhea, frigidity, impotence

Fennel- is another oil that assists in balancing and regulating hormones of the female reproductive system due to its chemical composition (anethol) resembling oestrogen. It is an adaptogen oil.  Reproductive System- Amenorrhea, menopausal problems, stimulating the Milk Supply in Nursing Mothers,

Geranium invokes love and happiness and aids communication and resolve, Geranium is an adaptogen oil having a close yin/yang balance, it is a helpful oil to restore equilibrium Reproductive and Endocrine Systems; Adrenal glands, Menopausal problems, PMS, Sterility.

Lavender Lavender-Reproductive and Endocrine Systems- Hormonal Imbalances stemming from stress, PMS, Menstrual Cramps, Pruritus, Amenorrhea, Menorrhagia, Dysmenorrhea Genitourinary system- Cystitis, Dysmenorrhea, Leukorrhea, Prostatitis, Vaginitis, Pelvic Inflammatory Disease

Rose is a particularly beautiful oil that has a strong affinity with the feminine, in particularly the female reproductive cycle. Rose’s positive affects on the emotions can be related to it’s influence on the female reproductive organs, making it an excellent oil for treating emotions caused from problems stemming from infertility, sexual fears and problems, menopause and PMT. Reproductive system- Irregular & Scanty Menstrual Cycles, Hormonal Imbalances, Infertility, Leukorrhea, Menorrhagia, Pre-Menstrual Tension, Uterine Disorders

Juniper is particularly a good oil for those with self–esteem issues who feel that they are unworthy of love or suffer from insecurity in their relationship. Juniper has the ability to stimulate and awaken love and sexuality, enhancing self-confidence and openness. Genitourinary& Reproductive systems- Amenorrhea, Cystitis, Dysmenorrhea, Leukorrhea, Metrorrhagia, Threatened Miscarriage

Basil arouses sexual instincts and is a good choice for someone who is anxious due to inexperience Reproductive System- Cramps, Amenorrhea

Vetiver is sexually arousing and strengthening, earthy and positive. It helps to release deeply felt tensions and fears.

Angelica- As an aphrodisiac, angelica root oil is helpful in treating emotional states that may stem from frigidity.

Ginger, erotic oil that supports sexuality by heating up the libido. Ginger helps us to melt cold emotions, Reproductive System- Menstrual Cramps

Cedarwood opens emotions in relationships whilst soothing fears and anxieties relating to sexuality. Encourages the sexual response.

Neroli Enhances self confidence and sensuality. Neroli- Reproductive System- PMS

Coriander A known euphoric and aphrodisiac, coriander helps encourage spontaneity, communication and passion, whilst reducing feelings of self doubt, making it a useful oil for reigniting a fizzled spark in a relationship.

Chamomile, Chamomile-Reproductive System- Dysmenorrhea, menopausal problems, menorrhagia, PMS, Morning Sickness Genito-urinary systems- Cystitis, Urethritis, Thrush, Vulval Pruritus

Peppermint, Reproductive & Genito-urinary Systems; Amenorrhea (small doses), Cystitis, Uterine Tonic

Marjoram- Reproductive system- Amenorrhea, Dysmenorrhea, Leukorrhea, PMS, Menstrual Cramps

Cypress -Reproductive and Genitourinary System- Dysmenorrhea, Menopausal problems, (hot flushes) menorrhagia, incontinence, Prostatitis, Pelvic Inflammatory Disease

Cinnamon- Reproductive System- Stimulates uterine contractions, Frigidity, leukorrhea, metrorrhagia

Cumin- Reproductive System- Irregular Periods, Menopausal problems, PMS Genito-urinary systems- Cystitis

Frankincense- Genitourinary System- Cystitis, Dysmenorrhea, Leukorrhea

Hyssop- Reproductive system-Amenorrhea, Increase milk supply in nursing mothers, Menopausal ailments, Leucorrhoea

Lemongrass- Reproductive System-PMS

Melissa- Reproductive System- Menstrual Problems-painful or irregular periods, PMS

Myrrh- Reproductive &Genitourinary system- Amenorrhea, Leukorrhea, Pruritus, Thrush

Parsley- Reproductive System- Amenorrhea, Dysmenorrhea, Labour Aid, Engorged Breasts

Urinary System- Cystitis, Urinary Tract Infections, Kidney Stones

Pine- Urinary system- Cystitis, Prostatitis, Urinary Infections

Rosemary- Reproductive system- Dysmenorrhea, Leukorrhea

Sage- Reproductive system- Amenorrhea, dysmenorrhea, hot flushes, leukorrhea, menopause, painful periods, suppresses lactation, sterility

References

(2000) Anatomica: The Complete Home Medical Reference. Australia: Global Book Publishing Pty Ltd.

Eason, Cassandra. (2000). Crystals-Talk To The Woman Within. England: Quantum.

Lacroix, Nitya & Bowhay, Sakina. (1995). The Art of Sensual Aromatherapy. Great Britain: Carlton Books.

Lawless, Julia. (1997). The Complete Illustrated Guide to Aromatherapy. Great Britain: Element Books.

Thompson, Kylie. (2005). Aromatherapy For The Emotions. United States: Lulu Press

Wildwood, Chrissie. (1994). Erotic Aromatherapy. Australia: Angus & Robertson.

© 2005, Kylie Thompson