The Science Behind FemFoundry

Evidence-informed aromatherapy for hormonal wellbeing

At FemFoundry, every candle, roller, and self-care blend is created with intention,  combining aromatherapy tradition and modern evidence to support mood, focus and calm throughout your hormonal cycle.

Our blends are formulated using ethically sourced essential oils and developed in line with guidance from the Aromatherapy Trade Council (ATC), which promotes safety, quality and research-based practice in the UK. FemFoundry ATC Brand Onwers Logo


How Aromatherapy Works

When we inhale essential oils, aromatic molecules travel through the olfactory system to areas of the brain that influence mood, hormones, and the stress response - particularly the amygdala and hypothalamus. This connection helps explain why scent can influence emotional states and perceived wellbeing.

Scientific studies suggest that certain essential oils may:

  • Support relaxation and reduce stress levels by influencing the autonomic nervous system.
  • Encourage rest and better sleep quality.
  • Improve perceived mood and energy through sensory stimulation.
  • Complement wellbeing practices such as meditation, journaling, and cycle tracking.

(Lee et al., 2011; Perry & Perry, 2006; Seol et al., 2013)

Aromatherapy should always be viewed as a holistic and complementary approach, not a replacement for professional medical treatment.

Evidence-Informed Essential Oils

Essential Oil

Key Findings

Potential Wellbeing Role

Lavender

Studied for its ability to reduce anxiety and promote relaxation; supports better sleep quality (Lee et al., J Altern Complement Med, 2011).

Calming, grounding and restorative.

Clary Sage

Inhalation associated with reduced cortisol and improved serotonin balance (Seol et al., J Ethnopharmacol, 2013).

Balancing during luteal or menopausal phases.

Bergamot

Demonstrated reduction in salivary cortisol and tension in small studies (Perry & Perry, 2006).

Uplifting, mood-enhancing and energising.

Rose Geranium

Commonly used for emotional stability and premenstrual comfort; limited but positive findings in aromatherapy trials.

Harmonising, supportive for mood.

Peppermint

Linked to alertness, reduced fatigue, and improved concentration (Moss et al., Int J Neurosci, 2008).

Refreshing and focusing.

The FemFoundry Approach

Our products are designed with women’s cyclical wellbeing in mind, supporting natural hormonal rhythms through scent, rest, and self-connection.
Each blend is crafted using essential oils (not synthetic fragrance), blended into plant-based waxes, carrier oils or alcohol and tested for quality and safety.

  • Roll-ons – for on-the-go calm, clarity, and grounding
  • Aromatherapy candles and melts – to set mindful rituals and create space to pause
  • Wellness boxes – curated for each phase of your cycle

All FemFoundry products comply with UK CLP (Classification, Labelling & Packaging) regulations and are labelled in line with ATC recommendations for consumer safety.

Our Philosophy

We believe that science and self-care can coexist beautifully.
While essential oils cannot “cure” hormonal conditions, research supports their ability to enhance relaxation, focus, and emotional balance - the foundations of hormonal wellbeing.

FemFoundry exists to empower women to understand their cycles, honour their bodies, and find calm in the chaos.

Important Information

FemFoundry products are intended for wellbeing and self-care purposes only.
If you experience severe or worsening symptoms such as persistent fatigue, mood changes, or pain, please consult your GP or qualified healthcare professional.

If you are in emotional distress or need urgent support:

  • Samaritans: 116 123 – available 24/7
  • Shout: Text 85258 for free mental health support
  • Mind Infoline: 0300 123 3393
  • NHS 111 – for urgent medical advice
  • Call 999 or attend A&E if you are in crisis or at risk.

References

  • Lee, M.S. et al. (2011). Aromatherapy for health: a systematic review. J Altern Complement Med.
  • Perry, N. & Perry, E. (2006). Aromatherapy in the management of psychiatric disorders. Evid-Based Complement Altern Med.
  • Seol, G.H. et al. (2013). Effects of inhalation of clary sage oil on stress responses in women. J Ethnopharmacol.
  • Moss, M. et al. (2008). Differential effects of essential oils on mental alertness. Int J Neurosci.
  • Aromatherapy Trade Council (ATC), Aromatherapy: The Natural Solution to Chronic Fatigue (2024).

Essential Oil

What Research Suggests

Possible Relevance to Hormonal / Cycle Well-being

Clary Sage (Salvia sclarea)

Inhalation by menopausal women showed reduced cortisol and increased 5-hydroxytryptamine (5-HT) (serotonin) levels. Medical News Today+3PubMed+3Wiley Online Library+3 Also, a small RCT found inhalation of clary sage (5%) or its main constituent linalyl acetate reduced anxiety/stress markers. PMC Some sources state it “may help modulate estrogen” though evidence is limited. Dr. Sarah Lobisco+1

Because stress (and cortisol) impacts hormonal cycles, this oil may help support the mood/energy phase of the cycle, help with PMS/menopause-related shifts, and enhance wellbeing during transitional phases.

Lavender (Lavandula angustifolia)

Widely studied for anxiety, sleep and relaxation. One review found little strong epidemiological evidence for its supposed endocrine-disrupting effects, despite earlier case-reports. SpringerLink+2PubMed+2 Some in-vitro studies found lavender oil might exhibit weak estrogenic or anti-androgenic activity. PMC

As a calming oil, lavender may support relaxation, sleep and emotional balance—all of which are important during hormonal shifts (e.g., luteal or menopausal phases). Because of the limited and mixed evidence regarding hormone modulation, use it primarily for general wellbeing.

Rose Geranium (Pelargonium graveolens)

Less human clinical research available but frequently cited in aromatherapy literature for mood balancing, PMS support and emotional regulation. Dr. Sarah Lobisco+1

May be used during the ovulatory and luteal phases when mood fluctuations, irritability or emotional sensitivity are more common, as a gentle supportive oil for emotional wellbeing.

Bergamot (Citrus bergamia)

Some studies show inhalation of bergamot oil can reduce salivary cortisol and reduce anxiety in healthy adult women. JKBNS+1

Could be helpful in the follicular and ovulatory phases when energy and social engagement tend to rise, supporting emotional uplift and stress reduction.

Peppermint (Mentha × piperita)

Research supports improved alertness, reduced tension headaches, and cognitive performance with peppermint inhalation. (Less direct hormone-specific research.) Dr. Sarah Lobisco

Useful in the follicular phase (when you might feel more energised) or mid-cycle to enhance focus, alertness and mental clarity—complementing hormonal rhythm rather than altering it directly.