CLARY SAGE OIL
The main chemical component of Clary Sage oil is linalyl acetate, part of the esters group, making it one of the most soothing, and balancing essential oils. With a woody and herbal aroma, it makes a great oil for times when relaxation and peace is needed.
Clary sage, an aromatic herb known for its essential oil, is extensively utilised in aromatherapy to alleviate stress, and anxiety, and support women's menstrual health.
This herb has shown successful results in relieving menstrual and labour pain, enhancing labour contractions, and reducing stress, tension, and anxiety. It is also known for its potential to alleviate depression and calm the autonomic nervous system. Moreover, clary sage has been deemed safe for use with no known adverse effects.
Healthcare providers can provide valuable evidence-based information on clary sage aromatherapy and massage for personalized low-intervention health needs and preferences.
Furthermore, clary sage oil is commonly used in aromatherapy for women during menstruation, childbirth, and menopause. Recent clinical studies have verified its effectiveness as an anti-stress, anti-depression, antioxidant, antimicrobial, anti-inflammatory and analgesic agent, particularly in primary dysmenorrhea.
Clary sage oil offers invaluable support to women during labour in a multitude of ways:
It can help alleviate anxiety, nausea, and pain when used as aromatherapy.
It has calming properties that can help ease pain and discomfort during labor.
As a natural uterotonic, it can stimulate contractions of the uterus, potentially improving the effectiveness of labor contractions.
It promotes relaxation during labor by calming the nervous system and providing pain relief.
The compounds in clary sage regulate and stimulate estrogen, as its chemical structure is similar to that of the female reproductive hormone. Many also believe that it stimulates the release of oxytocin, which is necessary for the onset of labor and childbirth.
How to use in labour?
Clary sage oil is very potent and should be used correctly to prevent hyper-stimulation. There are several options on how to use clary sage oil to induce labour or during labour:-
Put 2 drops on a dry cloth or flannel and inhale.
Massage 2 drops to acupressure points during contractions.
Inner ankle, one hand breadth from the centre of the ankle bone
Centre of feet soles, one-third from base of the toes
Put 2 drops on a cotton ball and put under pillow or near where you are labouring.
Create a massage oil blend with the ratio of 2 drops of clary sage oil to a teaspoon of base oil (such as olive, coconut or grape seed oil). Massage gently around the abdomen area, including the hips, pelvis and lower back. This blend can also be rubbed into your feet and palms.
Use a combination of these techniques during labour to increase effectiveness.
