Menopause can affect so many areas of daily life, from sleep and hot flashes to mood, anxiety, physical comfort, and even sexual wellbeing.

A new 2026 review looked at 17 studies with more than 1,300 postmenopausal women and found encouraging results for the use of aromatherapy during this stage of life.

Lavender was the most commonly studied oil, often inhaled before bed. Other oils included neroli, sage, fennel, lemon, peppermint, geranium, rose, rosemary, and bergamot.

Aromatherapy massage also stood out in several studies, especially for overall and emotional symptoms.

The research is still developing, but it is encouraging to see essential oils being studied more closely as a gentle, complementary option for women during menopause.