Digestion and Aromatherapy

Essential oils can help with many digestion problems.  Indigestion, bloating, nausea, constipation, diarrhea, and others respond well to topical applications of aromatherapy blends.  These conditions may require continued applications of a blend, but they are very effective for many digestive problems.

Here are some essential oils used for digestion conditions:

• Peppermint (Mentha piperita):  used for indigestion and constipation.  It stimulates peristalsis (movement of the intestines) as well as bile production.  It has an analgesic property and eases nausea. Peppermint essential oil is contraindicated for those with a history of atrial fibrillation and for children under the age of 6.

  
  

• Black pepper (Piper nigrum): a good anti-inflammatory oil.  It has a laxative effect.  It tones the muscles of the colon, aids in protein digestion, helps with gastric spasm, nausea, indigestion and flatulence. Black pepper is also a digestive stimulant and can be used with irritable bowel syndrome.

  
  

• Fennel (Foeniculum vulgare):  good for flatulence, bloating, hiccups, constipation, and internal parasites.  Fennel essential oil is contraindicated for those on blood thinners, diabetic medications, pregnant or breastfeeding. 

  
  

• Ginger (Zingiber officinale): a warming oil which can be used for nausea, diarrhea, bloating, and as a digestive stimulant.  Ginger essential oil also improves the muscle tone of the digestive tract. The extract of ginger is a different substance than ginger essential oil. It contains two constituents that stimulate the pancreas and liver to produce digestive secretions which aid in peristalsis and digestion. The extract is obtained through super-critical carbon dioxide extraction but can be used much like the essential oil.  It is sold as Ginger CO2 extract rather than ginger essential oil. 

A blend of these oils can relieve many digestive complaints.  It is recommended to dilute them in a carrier oil (olive, sesame, and/or jojoba oils) and apply to the abdomen.  See my blog, "Tis the Season for Overeating: A Digestive Recipe." For dilution rates and other helpful digestive essential oils, contact me.