In the constant quest for optimal well-being, aromatherapy is emerging as a promising natural method to improve digestion. Essential oils, derived from aromatic plants, offer a range of therapeutic benefits, ranging from the invigorating freshness of peppermint to the soothing properties of ginger. In this article, discover how to cultivate a happy and balanced stomach using aromatherapy.
How aromatherapy can improve digestion?
Essential oils can help improve digestion in several ways, thanks to their natural properties and active compounds. Below are some mechanisms by which they can help support healthy digestion and relieve uncomfortable digestive symptoms.
Stimulation of bile secretion
Certain essential oils, such as peppermint and rosemary, are known for their ability to stimulate the liver's production of bile . Bile is essential for fat digestion because it emulsifies lipids, making it easier for digestive enzymes to break them down.
Stimulation of digestive enzymes
Certain essential oils, such as ginger and peppermint, can help stimulate the production of digestive enzymes , which make it easier for food to break down and be absorbed by the body.
Carminative effect
Many essential oils have carminative properties , meaning they help relieve intestinal gas and bloating by promoting the expulsion of gas and soothing the muscles of the stomach and intestines . Green anise, cardamom and fennel are some examples of carminative essential oils.
Anti-inflammatory action
Some digestive disorders, such as colitis, gastritis, and gastroesophageal reflux disease (GERD), may be associated with inflammation of the digestive lining . Essential oils such as Roman chamomile, lavender, and peppermint have anti-inflammatory properties that can help soothe and reduce inflammation , which can help improve digestion .
Stress and Anxiety Relief
The digestive system is closely linked to the nervous system, and stress and anxiety can negatively impact digestion by slowing the movement of food through the gastrointestinal tract. Some essential oils, like lavender, chamomile, and neroli, are known for their calming and relaxing effects , which can help relieve stress and promote more efficient digestion .
Which essential oils should you choose to improve digestion?
Today there are a large number of different essential oils, each with their own characteristics. The essential oils presented in this second part can be used individually or combined in mixtures to obtain beneficial effects on digestion.
Peppermint (Mentha piperita)
Peppermint is a perennial plant native to Europe and Asia. Peppermint essential oil is known for its antispasmodic, carminative and anti-inflammatory properties . It helps relieve intestinal cramps, bloating and gas . In addition, it stimulates the production of bile, which facilitates the digestion of fats.
Ginger (Zingiber officinale)
Ginger is a plant native to tropical Asia, widely cultivated in tropical regions around the world. Ginger essential oil is known for its anti-nausea, anti-inflammatory and carminative properties . It helps relieve nausea, vomiting, stomach aches, indigestion and gas .
Roman chamomile (Chamaemelum nobile or Anthemis nobilis)
Roman chamomile is an herbaceous plant native to Europe and North Africa. Roman chamomile essential oil has anti-inflammatory, antispasmodic and calming properties . It is effective in relieving abdominal cramps, gas, bloating and gastrointestinal inflammation .
Green anise (Pimpinella anisum)
Green anise is a herbaceous plant native to the Mediterranean basin and western Asia. Green anise essential oil is known for its carminative, antispasmodic and digestive properties . It helps relieve gas, bloating, abdominal cramps and stimulate digestion .
Cardamom (Elettaria cardamomum)
Cardamom is an herbaceous plant native to India and some Southeast Asian countries. Cardamom essential oil has carminative, antispasmodic and digestive properties . It helps relieve gas, bloating, abdominal cramps and stimulate digestion by promoting the production of digestive enzymes .
In what forms should essential oils be used to improve digestion?
Essential oils can be used in different ways to improve digestion, but always with caution. To give you an idea, below are some of the most common methods of use.
Abdominal massage
Dilute a few drops of essential oil in a carrier oil like coconut, sweet almond, or olive oil, then gently massage your abdomen in a clockwise direction. This can help relieve cramps, bloating, and gas.
Inhalation
You can also add a few drops of essential oil to an essential oil diffuser and inhale the aromatic vapors . This method can help calm nausea and soothe the stomach.
Ingestion
Some food-grade essential oils can be ingested in small amounts to help improve digestion . However, before consuming it in this form, it is imperative to consult a healthcare professional, as not all essential oils are safe to ingest and some can even be toxic in large quantities.
Hot or cold compresses
Another form of using essential oils to improve digestion is to add a few drops of essential oil to hot or cold water , then soak a clean cloth in this mixture. All that remains is to apply the support to your abdomen to relieve cramps and digestive pain.
Aromatic baths
Finally, why not add a few drops of essential oil to your hot bath ? Then enjoy this moment of relaxation for 15 to 20 minutes. In this way, your abdominal muscles will be relaxed and your digestive discomforts relieved.
Some precautions for use
You now have all the information at your disposal to use aromatherapy to improve your digestion. All we have to do is remember that essential oils are concentrated and powerful substances. This is why they must be used with caution. Below are some precautions to take:
- It is essential to always dilute essential oils in a carrier oil before applying them to the skin , especially on sensitive areas like the abdomen.
- It is also recommended to perform a skin test first on a small area of skin to check for any allergic reactions or irritation .
- And as a reminder, you should not ingest essential oils unless they are specifically labeled as safe for consumption and you have consulted a healthcare professional.
- Furthermore, in all cases avoid direct contact with the eyes, mucous membranes and sensitive areas of the body .
- Finally, if you are pregnant, breastfeeding, taking medication, or have special health conditions, you should consult a qualified healthcare professional or aromatherapist before engaging in aromatherapy.
Conclusion
In conclusion, aromatherapy offers a natural and holistic approach to improve digestion and promote optimal gastrointestinal well-being. Essential oils, with their varied therapeutic properties, can relieve common digestive discomforts while providing a gentle alternative to conventional treatments. Whether to relieve bloating, abdominal cramps or nausea, or simply to regain fluid and comfortable digestion, essential oils can be valuable allies.
