Some of the other common symptoms include problems in the digestive system such as bloating, gas formation, constipation, and digestion problems. However, to ease the pain, you can try taking pills that are available at drug stores, but using natural remedies such as oils might also be beneficial. Basil essential oil can aid digestion through various ways where digestion is an essential aspect of human body functioning. Now it’s high time we discussed what essential oils are perfect for your digestion and how to apply them.
Peppermint Oil
Among all the oils, peppermint oil is known to be one of the most effective essential oils for digestion. Menthol is the main component in peppermint oil which has the capacity of relaxing the muscles in the intestine. It can alleviate pain and spasm in conditions such as irritable bowel syndrom (IBS).
In one clinical trial involving IBS patients, it was revealed that out of the 85 patients that were administered an enteric coated peppermint oil capsule, twice daily, for four weeks, seventy- five had decreased symptoms such as abdominal pain, bloating and gaseous distension. They include peppermint oil which is commonly used to soothe the stomach after a meal due to its ability to help reduce gassiness. The menthol contained in peppermint oil could help in alleviating the symptoms due to its cooling and soothing properties.
For digestive aid, one should ingest 1-2 drops of the peppermint oil in warm water or warm tea and should not swallow it hurriedly. Applying gentle massage on diluted peppermint oil over the abdomen may also help in managing this condition.
Ginger Oil
Some of its essential oils such as ginger oil have ingredients like gingerols and shogaols, which can help in enhancing digestion by increasing intestinal muscle contractions. This way they minimize indigestion and avoid the formation of gasses in the stomach after taking a meal.
Various studies point to ginger as useful in the prevention or reduction of nausea, vomiting and morning sickness in pregnant women. Ginger oil is also carminative in nature which means that the gas in the intestinal tract is eased thus making the intestines relaxed. By incorporating ginger oil in your daily diet, one may find it easier to overcome their chronic indigestion issues.
Ginger oil – 2-3 drops in warm water or tea, it is recommended to drink after a meal. It can also be mixed with a drop of carrier oil and then massaged over the stomach area.
Lemon Oil
Lemon oil also has properties in the digestive system that can be helpful in cases of indigestion, constipation, nausea, and gastrointestinal cramps. The primary compound in lemon oil, limonene, aids in the production of digestive fluids such as bile and ensures the meals have been chewed well enough for easy digestion. This aids in the digestion of food and to ensure that it does not stagnate in the gut.
There is actual proof that the ingestion of lemon oil leads to the expulsion of helminths and other parasites from the gastrointestinal tract. Lemon is a natural detoxifier and you could try; 2 drops of food-grade lemon essential oil in water first thing in the morning and then drink it as a cleanse. Lemon oil has also been reported to help with the alleviation of nausea and vomiting and one could try inhaling the scent of lemon oil.
Fennel Oil
The results of a study revealed that fennel oil provided antispasmodic, anti-inflammatory, and carminative activities in the gastrointestinal system. Substances such as anethole and fenchone have calming effects on the muscles of the intestines besides helping the body to reduce cases of stomach aches, swelling, and gassiness.
Several infants with colic reported a decrease in the hours spent crying each day when given fennel oil drops with concentrations ranging from 0. 1ml to 0. 2 ml. Fennel oil is also thought to aid in gall production and facilitate the digestion of fats. Drop a few drops of fennel oil in teas or directly under the tongue diluted, to help with digestion after eating.
Roman Chamomile Oil
Some of its uses include the following benefits of chamomile oil it offers anti-inflammatory effects, which help to reduce inflammation related to stomach ulcers, diarrhea, vomiting, and gastroenteritis. Some of the active ingredients in chamomile oil for example chamazulene assists in the relaxation of the intestinal muscles so as to reduce painful passing of gas and diarrhea.
Research also indicates better signs for the patients who were administered with chamomile oil in chemotherapy. Chamomile oil is also good for treating stress -related digestive problems thanks to its calming effect.
Recommended to use 3-4 drops in warm bath, room diffuser, or blended with a carrier oil in belly massage for digestion problems.
Clove Oil
Another effect of clove oil is that it has the ability to stimulate the production of gastric juices and hence facilitates digestion. Due to the anti-inflammatory, antispasmodic, analgesic and carminative effects on the GI tract, clove oil eugenol is the most active component. It also goes a onge in the consolidation of the integrity at the mucosa of the gastrointestinal tract and inflammation.
One study that was conducted demonstrated that this essential oil can be as potent as traditional antacids in treating gastric ulcers. One of the primary functions of clove oil is as a carminative in that it is known to effectively facilitate the release of accumulated gas in the digestive system to help reduce bloating and cases of flatulence.
It is possible to use clove oil in herbal teas in a concentration of 1-2 drops or swallowed diluted clove oil after meals to reduce the fermentation of food.
Black Pepper Oil
Other essential oils such as ginger and clove oil and black pepper oil have proved to possess gastroprotective activity. Black pepper oil might even have an ability to strengthen the outer lining of the stomach due to the presence of beta-caryophyllene that helps in improving the defense system of the mucous membrane of the stomach.
Among its activities, carminative activities also fought against excess gas by promoting the expulsion of waste and toxins. For digestion and to overcome stomach pain, you can put 1 drop of black pepper essentials oil into warm tea or food.
Dietary oil blends and their impact on digestive health
The gentleness and effectiveness of essential oils can be magnified when they are used in conjunction with other oils for digestive health.
Some examples include:
- Peppermint and Ginger: They have been widely used in a combination to promote digestion, ease indigestion and eliminate nausea.
- Lemon and Peppermint: An effective mixture that warms up the stomach and has antibacterial properties with an uplifting scent.
- Roman Chamomile and Fennel: A fitting abetter that helps to overcome the cramping and gas pain.
- Clove and Black Pepper: An anti-inflammatory, gut-protecting combination designed to help with bloating and any various stomach discomforts.
Safety and Precautions
Before adding them to food or applying it on your skin always mix the essential oils with a carrier oil. Skin patch test to confirm the reaction that is likely to occur due to the sensitiveness of the skin. Concentrated mixtures should be applied to newborns, pregnant women, and individuals with fragile skin.
The dilutions of very low concentration should be used for children, pregnant women, and those people whose skin is sensitive.
It is important to consult your healthcare provider before using essential oils during pregnancy, breastfeeding, or if you’re in a hospital. Discontinue the use of oils if skin inflammation is noticed Within a few weeks of the first application of the oils, check the skin for the following effects: It is important to always ensure that only therapeutic-grade essential oils are used and they should be sourced from a reputable supplier.
It is crucial to understand that essential oils can be used together with other modalities like taking in probiotics and fiber, stress relieving practices, and avoiding certain foods that cause inflammation to support digestive health. Use of essential oils should be used in a holistic way for appropriate digestive health.