More than one digestion problem plagues every one of us at any given time. Bloating, constipation, acidity, you name it – we’ve got it. It’s just a part of being human. But with essential oils for digestion problems, we can keep things under control – naturally.
The most common digestive problems seen the world over include GERD/ heartburn, irritable bowel disease (IBD) and irritable bowel syndrome (IBS). Treatment includes a combination of medication and lifestyle changes. There are many folk remedies that are used to treat poor digestion at home. A modern way to tackle this is by using essential oils for digestion problems.
Symptoms Of Digestive Problems
The typical symptoms of digestive issues are:
- chronic bloating,
- gas,
- diarrhea,
- stomach pain as also sporadic abdominal cramps.
People with digestive problems also suffer from:
- constipation,
- heartburn that often leaves a sour taste in the mouth,
- hypersalivation, nausea,
- chest pain,
- respiratory distress,
- tooth erosion,
- bad breath,
- sudden onset of food allergies,
- hemorrhoids or anal fissures,
- skin conditions like acne,
- psoriasis,
- rosacea or eczema,
- premature ageing of the skin and
- fluctuations in body weight.
Top 7 Essential Oils for Digestion Problems
Given the plethora of conditions that may rise due to digestive problems, the use of natural essential oils often provides relief from an upset stomach, spasms, disrupted abdominal motility, nausea, constipation and gas.
The following oils help normalize gastro-intestinal functions:
1. Peppermint Oil:
Known for its cooling, analgesic and invigorating properties, peppermint oil provides relief from stomach cramps, caused particularly by diarrhea. Consume in small and diluted quantities to control IBS internally. Peppermint oil also normalizes hyper acidic conditions when eight ounces of water with one drop of the oil is mixed and drunk. For treating an upset stomach, add a drop of the oil in 8 oz of water and drink it. Or, gently massage 1-3 drops on the abdomen directly. To treat sporadic gas conditions, drink 8 ounces of water with 1 drop of peppermint oil and/or massage 1-3 drops directly on the abdomen.
2. Lavender Oil:
Lavender oil has calming and soothing properties that induce a sense of tranquility and peace to reduce anxiety caused by digestive problems. When a few drops are massaged on the stomach, the patients gets relief from stomach cramps and inflammation. For treating an upset stomach, add a drop of the oil in 8 oz of water and drink it. Or, gently massage 1-3 drops on the abdomen directly.
3. Lemon Oil:
Lemon oil comes with powerful detoxifying properties that expel toxins, bacteria or virus that irritating and inflame the stomach. When inhaled, its pleasant smell curbs nausea. Lemon oil is also known to stabilize hyper acidic conditions when eight ounces of water with one drop of the oil is mixed and consumed. For food poisoning, 1 drop of lemon oil can be mixed in 3 cups of kefir and consumed throughout the day.
4. Frankincense Oil:
A proven remedy for fighting infections and strengthening the immune system, Frankincense oil speeds up the recovery rate of patients suffering from chronic diarrhea. Frankincense is not recommended to be consumed internally. But it works powerfully when applied on the outside. Add 8 drops of frankincense to 1/4 cup of olive oil and massage over the abdomen for digestive relief.
5. Ginger Oil:
Its anti-inflammatory and analgesic properties make ginger oil an effective remedy for abdominal pain and cramps caused by gas or diarrhea. Its spicy scent when inhaled, reduces the typical; lightheadedness and queasiness associated with chronic digestive problems. Combine ginger oil with fennel and cardamom oils and rubbed gently on the abdomen to get relief from constipation. For treating an upset stomach, add a drop of the oil in 8 oz of water and drink it. Or, gently massage 1-3 drops on the abdomen directly. To treat sporadic gas conditions, drink 8 ounces of water with 1 drop of peppermint oil and/or massage 1-3 drops mixed in 1 tsp of carrier oil (such as grapeseed oil) directly on the abdomen.
6. Chamomile Oil:
One of the best essential oils for digestion problems is chamomile. It acts as a powerful agent to reduce inflammation and alleviate cramps. Chamomile tea is very calming to the stomach. Empty capsules can be filled with 1 drop of chamomile oil and topped up with coconut oil. These can be consumed 1 – 3 times a day to soothe an upset tummy. Skin conditions caused by digestive problems may be treated with chamomile oil by direct application.
7. Tea Tree Oil:
This oil must never be consumed directly as it is dangerous and toxic to the liver. However, it is useful when applied and massaged over the stomach for digestive issues. It has powerful antiviral, antibacterial and antimicrobial effects. Works well in diarrhea caused by digestive tract problems and also relieves gas. For a relieving abdominal massage, mix 1/4 cup of castor oil with 8 – 10 drops of tea tree oil. Gently massage over the abdominal region for 5 minutes.
Caution
It is important to remember that the quality and purity of such essential oils is of the greatest importance. About 75% of essential oils are tampered with or altered, compromising their safety. So, before buying and using them, check their quality standards, manufacturing practices and guarantees that are endorsed by the FDA.
All the above mentioned essential oils may be used as stomach rubs or inhaled through a diffuser. Essential oils that are organic and labelled as GRAS (Generally Recommended As Safe) may be internally through capsules – but this should be done in consultation with a qualified health care professional. Children and pregnant women must never consume essential oils.
Use essential oils safely in baths to soak in for relief with digestion problems. Aromatherapy also helps with digestive trouble, so atomize essential oils by using a diffuser.
What remedies do you use to relieve digestive troubles? Do you have any favorite essential oils for digestion problems? Share them below so everyone can benefit!