Essential oils are an amazing way to enhance healing holistically. There are specific essential oils that may positively affect our fertility; aiding in hormonal balance, reducing inflammation, reducing stress, promoting healing, improving endocrine function, reducing pain, and boosting the immune system function. Using essential oils for fertility is an enjoyable way to work toward healing fertility issues, promoting reproductive health as well as reducing stress.
The oils smell wonderful, uplift our spirits, as well as heal and promote overall wellness. Essential Oils are easy to use and may be purchased at most health food stores or can be found online. Most essential oils are relatively inexpensive and last for a long time, making it well worthwhile to spend the money. But, remember when you are purchasing essential oils that there are two types, synthetic and medicinal. The medicinal oils will cost more than than the synthetic, but the medicinal oils will be the only ones that will have any type of medicinal effect on your body.
How do Essential Oils Work?
Inhale Into The Lungs
The vapors from the oils are inhaled into our lungs. The vapors are tiny particles that travel down our airway directly into our lungs. The particles of the essential oils are mixed with oxygen and are exchanged for carbon dioxide when we breathe, the oxygen molecules along with the essential oil vapors are carried throughout our bodies via our blood (absorbed into the small capillaries in the lungs). Here are some ways that we can inhale or breathe in essential oils:
- Steam inhalation
- Room spray
- Bath
- Massage with essential oil blend
- Aromatherapy burner
Absorbed Into The Skin
When the body is massaged with a base oil combined with essential oils, the skin is coated with the oils. Our skin can absorb substances with small molecular structures. The oils are then absorbed into our skin and underlying tissues and taken throughout the body via blood. The particles are taken to where they will be most beneficial. Our bodies have a great intelligence and know where these particles are most needed for healing; just like when we eat something, our bodies break-down and digest the foods, and the different parts of the food (ie: nutrients, minerals, proteins, fats,etc.) when broken-down are taken to different parts of our bodies, the parts where they are needed. Some essential oils are healing to the skin itself. Some are specific for rash, others are antibacterial and may be beneficial for healing wounds.
Once the essential oil particles are in our bodies they also have an effect on our mind; emotionally and psychologically. Many essential oils not only affect our bodies physically, they may also have the ability to reduce depression, feelings of anxiety or mental fatigue.
Now you can see how essential oils work and can be beneficial for our entire body.
Essential Oils That Are Beneficial For Fertility
German Chamomile
(Matricaria chamomilla, Matricaria recutita)
German chamomile is best known for its ability to reduce inflammation. This oil is a deep blue color due to the presence of azulene. It also has some pain reducing effects, promotes calming of the nerves, reduces anger, irritability and depression. This oil may be a good choice for women with painful cysts or fibroids. It may also be good for women who feel anxiety or depression due to fertility issues.
*Do not use this oil during pregnancy, especially if there is a history of miscarriage, this oil is best used in preparation for healing. If you are actively trying to conceive do not use after ovulation.
Geranium
(Pelargonium gravolens)
This oil is an adrenal cortex stimulant; helping to regulate and balance hormones. It also helps to detoxify the lymphatic system, helps to alleviate anxiety, and is antidepressant.
Rose Otto
(Rosa centifolia, Rosa damascena, Rosa gallica)
This is by far one of the most expensive essential oils on the market, but well worth it! This is one of my favorite oils and just a few drops go a long way. Rose otto is helpful in treating PMS, regulation of the menstrual cycle and has been shown helpful for women who have trouble conceiving. This oil relaxes the uterus and is an aphrodisiac, helping to inspire confidence in expressing oneself sexually. It is extremely effective in treating depression and grief; this may be a great oil for those who have miscarried or have a failed IVF.
*Do not use this oil during pregnancy, especially if there is a history of miscarriage, this oil is best used in preparation for healing. If you are actively trying to conceive do not use after ovulation.
Sweet Marjoram
(Origanum majorana, Majorana hortensis)
This is a great oil for menstrual cramps as Sweet Marjoram works to reduce pain on all levels. It’s great to use with a hot compress on the abdomen when experiencing menstrual cramps.
*Avoid during pregnancy
Clary Sage
(Salvia sclaria)
Do not get this one mixed up with common Sage. Clary sage is said to produce a “narcotic like high”, helping to reduce pain. It’s very effective in reducing menstrual cramps and is an extremely effective uterine tonic. It has been said that Clary Sage may have estrogenic effects that help to regulate the menstrual cycle. It is also very effective in treating depression and anxiety.
*Avoid use during pregnancy, may be used in labor under the skilled use of a practitioner. Do not drink alcoholic beverages before, during or after using this oil.
Cypress
(Cupressus sempervirens)
This oil is great for women with over-heavy menstrual bleeding and painful menstruation. It is very astringent.
Lavender
(Lavendula officinalis, Lavandula angustifolia)
I am including lavender because it is generally a great oil for every ailment and is very balancing for most oil blends. It is a great circulatory stimulant, immune stimulant, balancing for all body systems and is very helpful for mood swings associated with PMS or hormonal imbalance.
*Do not use this oil during pregnancy, especially if there is a history of miscarriage, this oil is best used in preparation for healing. If you are actively trying to conceive do not use after ovulation.
Ylang Ylang
(Cananga odorata)
Ylang Ylang is effective for helping boost mood, relieve anxiety, sadness, and chronic stress, reduce inflammation, boost libido, as well as help with insomina, fatigue and even frigidity.
In a 2018 in vivo, randomized single-blind controlled trial published in the International Journal of Clinical and Experimental Medicine, researchers concluded that, “EO [Lavendar and Ylang Ylang] inhalation is effective in reducing the stress index, and that it effectively regulates the the hypothalamus to provide stable and relaxing conditions by creating balance in the sympathetic nervous system”.
Sweet Fennel
(Foeniculum vulgare, Foeniculum officinale, Anthum foeniculum)
Sweet fennel is effective for helping to regulate the menstrual cycle and reduce hormone fluctuations.
*Do not use during pregnancy or if you have epilepsy.
Jasmine
(Jasminum grandiflorum, Jasmine officianale)
Jasmine is a wonderful oil as it aids overall female reproductive health and is also strengthening for the male sex organs. This oil is very expensive.
Making an Oil Blend
Video: How to Make an Oil Blend for Menstrual Cramps
Be sure to put your oil blend in an amber or blue glass jar with a tight fitting cap that is clean and has been sterilized. To sterilize your jar, you can boil the jar and cap for 3 minutes. Let the jar dry completely to prevent the oil from going rancid because of contact with water. Label the oil with ingredients and the date so you know what it is and how old it is. Store in a cool dry place, do not store near homeopathic medicines as the essential oils can ruin them.
Fill glass bottle ½ of the way full with carrier oil. Add the desired amount of drops of essential oils. Fill the rest of the bottle with carrier oil until almost full (allow room for the cap). Cap tightly and shake gently to mix oils. Let sit for at least a day before using.
You can also add essential oils directly to a hot bath or to a hot compress. For a compress add the drops of essential oil into 2 ounces of water, soak a cotton cloth in water mixture for a compress. A hot compress is desirable for the abdomen.
Fertility Essential Oil Blends
Overall Fertility Enhancer
*Great for everyday use
| Carrier Oil Blend (4oz.) | Amount of Drops= | Bath | Compress |
| Lavender | 10 | 1 | 1 |
| Sweet Fennel | 10 | 1 | 1 |
| Clary Sage | 20 | 2 | 2 |
| Rose Otto | 10 | 1 | 1 |
Menstrual Cramps
*Best used only during a painful period, endometriosis, fibroids, ovarian cysts, or before ovulation
| Carrier Oil Blend (4oz.) | Amount of Drops= | Bath | Compress |
| German Chamomile | 15 | 2 | 2 |
| Clary Sage | 20 | 2 | 2 |
| Rose Otto | 10 | 1 | 1 |
| Sweet Marjoram | 20 | 2 | 1 |
Heavy Menstrual Bleeding
*Best used during heavy bleeding during menstruation
| Carrier Oil Blend (4oz.) | Amount of Drops= | Bath | Compress |
| Cypress | 30 | 2 | 2 |
| Clary Sage | 20 | 2 | 2 |
| Lavender | 10 | 1 | 1 |
| Sweet Marjoram | 10 | 1 | 1 |
Any massage essential oil blend may be used in place of or combined with the castor oil packs before Self Fertility Massage. If you want a more moisturizing bath you may also add 1 tablespoon of the the oil blend (with carrier oil) to your bath instead of just drops of the essential oils.
Essential Oils for Libido
Some essential oils have aphrodisiac qualities. Here are some oils that may increase libido: Ylang Ylang, Sandalwood, Rose Otto, Jasmine, Patchouli and Clary Sage. All of these oils are pretty strong and it is best to use them sparingly when making a blend for massage. Using these oils as a base for an intimate massage with your partner may spark intimacy. This blend is great for anyone who feels less than desirable or uninterested in sexual intimacy. This often happens when a couple feels that trying to have a baby is becoming mechanical or forced.
Libido Blend for Her
Men love this, use for massaging her
| Carrier Oil Blend (4oz.) | Amount of Drops= | Bath |
| Jasmine | 20 | 2 |
| Ylang Ylang | 10 | 1 |
| Patchouli | 5 | 1 |
| Rose Otto | 10 | 1 |
Because of the cost of the Jasmine and Rose you may exclude the Jasmine, increase the amount of Ylang Ylang if you are on a tight budget.
Libido Blend for Him
Women love this, use for massaging him
| Carrier Oil Blend (4oz.) | Amount of Drops= | Bath |
| Sandalwood | 30 | 3 |
| Patchouli | 10 | 1 |
| Jasmine | 5 | 1 |
Either of these blends may be changed to your liking and the one for women may be used for men and vice versa.
Not sure you want to make your own fertility oil blends?
Click here to purchase our therapeutic handmade fertility oil…
*The massage oil blends may be used everyday unless you are actively trying to conceive or think you may be pregnant. Do not use these oils after ovulation.
**If you get essential oils in your eye, mouth or open wound flush thoroughly with whole milk, half ‘n half or buttermilk, the fat molecules from the whole fat milk or cream will absorb and flush away the essential oils. Do not use water as it will just spread the oils around.
- Higley, C., Higley, A. and Leatham, P. (1998). Aromatherapy A-Z. Hay House, Inc.
- Farrer-Halls, G. (2005). The Aromatherapy Bible. Sterling Publishing.
- Worwood, V.A. (1991). The Complete Book Of Essential Oils & Aromatherapy. New World Library.
- Nagdeve, M. (March 01, 2019). 8 Surprising Benefits of Ylang Ylang Essential Oil. Retrieved from https://www.organicfacts.net/health-benefits/essential-oils/health-benefits-of-ylang-ylang-essential-oil.html
- Bae, I. et al (2018) Effects of aromatherapy essential oil inhalation on the stress response after exposure to noise and arithmetic subtraction stressor: randomized controlled trial. International Journal of Clinical and Experimental Medicine. 11(1):275-284. Retrieved from http://www.ijcem.com/files/ijcem0051785.pdf
- Holmes, P., L.Ac., M.H. (Spring, 2015). Exploring the Roots of the Materia Aromatica. Journal of the American Herbalists Guild; Vol. 13(1), pp. 7-19 Retrieved from: https://www.americanherbalistsguild.com/product/special-essential-oils-issue
Practicing natural health and herbalism for over 18 years, Dalene received her training and herbal certification under the guidance of Lynn Albers at Yarmony Mt. Herbal College in Colorado in 2000. She went on to become a Certified Birth Doula at Birthingway College of Midwifery in Portland, Oregon in 2007. As a Birth Doula, Dalene has helped to bring many new lives in to this world. Dalene has written 280+ fertility articles and with her vast array of herbal and holistic healing knowledge has helped 1000’s of women on their journey to Motherhood.
you mentioned that if you are actively trying to conceive you shouldn’t use certain essential oils post ovulation. What about if you are doing IVF and preparing the month prior with estrogen patches (post ovulation). Is it ok to use EO post ovulation in that case? Or is it going to have an impact on the IVF? Also can you use the cramp blend in the beginning of the IVF cycle? Thanks!
Dear Caroline,
We can not suggest certain oils past ovulation even while preparing for IVF. The cramp blend would need to be approved by your healthcare provider.
If you have yet to see our guide Natural Ways to Support Your Body Through an IVF Cycle, you may appreciate that as well.
I beg your pardon but one piece of information in your otherwise informative and interesting article is misleading, and bluntly inaccurate. There are NOT two kinds of essential oils. There are Essential oils, and FRAGRANCE oils! Fragrance oils are artificial and a reputable vender is not going to list them with or as essential oils. Also there should be a major warning on jasmine as it can cause contractions and bring on labour!
Hello!
Thank you for sharing your insight! Fragrance oils are often synthetic, so we are not misleading rather using differing terminology.
Our primary focus is preconception support, as is that of this article. This article is not intended to educate those already pregnant on EOs for pregnancy.
Hi,
I am a little confused/concerned. The oils recommended to help with fertility are also not recommended during pregnancy. Since the aim of increasing fertility is ultimately to fall pregnant, how is this a safe option? I love my oils and have most of these at home already but a little hesitant in using them in case I have fallen pregnant already.
Dear Kim,
Thanks for asking and not to worry! It is fine to use essential oils while preparing for conception and when actively trying to conceive. If you think you may be or upon first determination of pregnancy, they would just be stopped. At that time, you could consider switching to oils that can be considered in pregnancy (even if you aren’t sure if you’ve conceived). If you have not, then you can go back to the preconception oils you love.
Isn’t 50 drops of EO in 4 oz carrier too diluted? Talking about the fertility enhancer. How much should we apply and how often?
Dear Rena G,
It is not for the general public. It is about a 3% dilution roughly is my understanding (I am not an aromatherapist though). If you are a remedy maker or follow the guidance of a trusted aromatherapist who suggest differently, then certainly feel free to follow their advice.
I am wondering if pure rose oil has the same qualities for fertility as rose otto??
Dear Julie,
It is my understanding that the different between these oils is the way in which they are processed and price. Rose Otto is for many a much more economical essential oil option than pure rose. In terms of qualities and benefits, they are similar and many may be the exact same.
Hi,
I am just wondering- I am looking at purchasing some Sandalwood essential oil for my partner who has low testosterone as I understand this can help boost these levels. Is this correct?
Along with this I am finding that there are two sorts on the online site I buy from-Sandalwood oil that is expensive! and then a cheaper version-‘West Indies’ Sandalwood oil. Would this be as effective or not?
Thanks so much for the help:)
Dear Kiarni,
I have heard that sandalwood (Santalum album), the Indian variety, is most beneficial for hormone balance and enhancing male libido. We feel it very important to purchase essential oils from a company that does tests their oils to make for purity. “Sandalwood is one of the top adulterated oils due to price/profit”, I am told by our site’s founder Hethir Rodriguez. She suggests and purchases essential oils from Ananada Apothecary, Aromatics International and Stillpoint.
Hi, I am 43 and my period is very irregular due to stress in the past. I would like to regulate my period first and then see if it comes back, if I can still get pregnant. I am very healthy. Which blend would be best recommend?
Thank you
Dear Liz,
The Overall Fertility Enhancer fertility essential oil blend could be complementary to a natural fertility program to address menstrual cycle regularity. It may not alone be all that needs to be used however. Consider taking time to thoroughly read our guide for Preparing for Conception Over 40 to learn additional natural ways to support menstrual cycle, egg and fertility health.
Hi 🙂 for the fertility enhancer, is there something that could be used in place of the rose? Unfortunately I cannot afford the rose :/
Thanks!
Hello Cassie!
While not perfect substitutes in terms of scent, either Rose Geranium or Geranium are suitable substitutes for Rose Otto.
Enjoy!
Hello,
We are TTC and I see your list of oils that can help me…. I’m looking to only use these oils in a diffuser and NOT apply the skin. So when it says “do not use during pregnancy” can I still use for Aromatherapy purposes in a diffuser??
Dear Christine,
The essentials oils listed in this article can be used when trying to conceive prior to ovulation, not after. Some oils are not to be used in pregnancy unless being guided to do so by a trained aromatherapist. Even the strong smell(s) of essential oils can trigger reactions within the body. It is best to avoid topical application and diffusing essential oils that state “not for use or avoid in pregnancy”.
I am 43 I had my Mirena IUD removed one week ago. My husband and I want to have a baby and I am worried we have waited too late, but I was very fertile in my younger days. I am interested in an oil that would help with conception as soon as possible, but saw that most of these oils say not to use if actively trying to conceive. I would appreciate any assistance that you can provide.
Dear Donelle,
Essential oils can be complementary to many fertility health programs. Each listed in this article can be used while trying to conceive, there are just a few that are best used prior to ovulation when actively trying to conceive. If this is the case, it will say so under the description of the oil.
The article to consider reviewing that may also be helpful is How to Balance Your Hormones After Birth Control.
Best wishes!
Hello! Is the cramp and heavy menstruation safe for younger girls. My daughter started her period earlier this year (she is 11) and she just started having some cramps and her periods are a bit heavier and is hard for her at school to have such heavy periods.
Dear Jessica,
Oh, I am sorry your daughter is having to go through this at the start and at such a young age.
We have to recommend anyone interested in natural therapies under the age of 18 work with a natural health care practitioner in conjunction with their medical doctor. Consider reaching out to an herbalist or aromatherapist in your area to formulate an essential oil blend specific for your daughter.
This article Herbs for Teen Reproductive Health: Steps for Healthy Choices may be helpful as well.
Best wishes!
Where can I find Rose Otto essential oil for Overall Fertility Enhancer? Can i confirm that it is actually a blend for massage oil?
How many drops of Ylang Ylang to use in the absence of Jasmine and Rose for Libido Blend for him & her? Is is a masssage oil blend too?
Dear Catherine,
Rose Otto essential oil is available from a number of companies. A simple internet search may lead you to it. While we are not affiliated, Mountain Rose Herbs is a reputable source for herbs and essential oils (and much more). The Overall Fertility Enhancer recipe in this article is indeed a “blend”. It can be simply smelled, or used in massage, baths, diffusers, etc.
The Libido Blends are massage oil blends too. In the Libido Blend for Her, the drops of Ylang Ylang can be increased to 20 drops in place of the Jasmine. In the Libido Blend for Him, the number of Ylang Ylang drops would be 5 (in place of the Jasmine).
Enjoy these blends!
When you say, for use everyday, how do you actually use it? And where to you apply it to an how much? (Overall Fertility Enhancer and Menstrual Cramps)
Hello T!
The Overall Fertility Enhancer (can be used every day) and Menstrual Cramp (used when experiencing menstrual cramps) blends are massage oils and may be used in place of or combined with the Castor Oil Packs before Self Fertility Massage.
About 1 Tablespoon can be added to the Castor Oil, or added to a bath if you would like to make a medicinal bath.
I hope you enjoy using these essential oil blends!
I am using clary sage currently and actively trying to get pregnant. Would you advise to not use post ovulation or is it ok to use until I know for sure that I have conceived? I’m looking for a natural way to boost my hormones post ovulation –
Hello Jessica!
Clary sage essential oil is a rather strong essential oil and because it may stimulate oxytocin release, it should not be used after ovulation when trying to conceive.
Consider learning about the luteal phase (the menstrual cycle phase from ovulation until day one of your period) through our Natural Guide to Menstrual Health. This may offer you additional ways to support hormone balance during this phase of the cycle.
Hi There, Can you please advise an essential oil that will help with scar tissue on fallopian tubes and help improve egg health in an older woman.
Tifara
Hello Tifara!
We do not know of any essential oils that either help to improve egg health specifically, or reduce scar tissue formation in the fallopian tubes.
Take care!
Hi there, I had a quick question…
I was interested in using the Fertility Enhancer oil blend with a carrier oil. May I ask where I need to apply it or does it matter? I’ve read a lot about using oils for fertility and most say to apply on the inner part of the ankle and/or on the abdomen near the ovaries. I just wanted to ask if that also applies to this blend. Thank you 🙂
Hello Elizabeth!
The Overall Fertility Enhancer blend is lovely!
You can focus on applying these oils to the insides of ankles, feet and lower abdomen (where reproductive organs are). These oils will also be supportive if simply breathed in as well. I like to place a dab of oil on each wrist before bed so that I can smell them when I sleep with my hands under my pillow.
Enjoy!
Update 2014 – We are back! We have been away for a while and we sure have missed all of your wonderful questions and thoughts on our articles. Moving forward, one of our staff herbalists will be here to respond to comments! We look forward to connecting with our readers once again!
Hi I’m just wondering you mentioned that some oils should not be used after ovulation. Is this the same if you make the overall fertility enhancer oil blend or can this be used everyday?
thanks
Jo
thanks alot for the article. it was very lovely but am just wondering, where can one get these essential oils from?
Hi Sophie,
Thanks for reading this article! You can get most essential oils at your local health food store. You can also look them up online, but be sure you are purchashing from a reputable source. In some cities there are actually aromatherapists that you may be able to purchase from. I highly suggest getting a book on aromatherapy to help you learn your way around them, such as how to store them properly, ect.
Warmly,
Dalene
I love this article as it is what i have been thinking of getting more info on. Very informative
Great article. I have been using essential oils in my home and work place. Now I can use it for fertility too. Thank you!