10 Best Herbal Essential Oils For Upset Stomach
Herbal essential oils, such as peppermint, ginger, and fennel, are commonly used to alleviate symptoms of an upset stomach due to their soothing and anti-inflammatory properties.
Peppermint oil, in particular, helps relax the gastrointestinal muscles and ease digestion, making it effective for bloating and indigestion. Ginger essential oil is known for its ability to reduce nausea and promote digestion, often used in aromatherapy or diluted for topical application. Fennel oil can also help relieve gas and cramping by stimulating the release of digestive enzymes.
However, it is important to use these oils properly, often diluted with a carrier oil, and consult a healthcare professional before use, especially for those with sensitive skin or underlying health conditions.
Table of Contents
1. Piper nigrum
Piper nigrum, commonly known as black pepper, is a traditional herb that contains essential oils with potential benefits for digestive health.
The essential oils derived from black pepper, particularly containing compounds like piperine, may help alleviate symptoms of an upset stomach by stimulating digestive enzymes and improving nutrient absorption. These oils are believed to have anti-inflammatory and antimicrobial properties that can soothe gastrointestinal discomfort. However, it is important to use these oils in moderation and consult a healthcare professional before using them for medicinal purposes.
While some people may find relief from using piper nigrum essential oils for an upset stomach, they should not replace professional medical advice or treatment.
2. Zingiber officinale
Zingiber officinale, commonly known as ginger, is widely recognized for its medicinal properties, particularly in alleviating symptoms of an upset stomach.
The essential oils derived from fresh or dried ginger roots contain bioactive compounds like gingerol and shogaol, which have potent anti-inflammatory and antispasmodic effects. These oils can help reduce nausea, vomiting, and digestive discomfort by calming the gastrointestinal tract and improving digestion. When used in aromatherapy or diluted in a carrier oil, zingiber officinale essential oil offers a natural and effective remedy for digestive issues.
However, it is important to consult a healthcare professional before use, especially for pregnant individuals or those with underlying medical conditions.
3. Cinnamomum verum
Cinnamomum verum, commonly known as true cinnamon, produces an essential oil that has been traditionally used to support digestive health.
The essential oil contains compounds like cinnamaldehyde and eugenol, which possess antimicrobial and anti-inflammatory properties that may help alleviate symptoms of an upset stomach. When used in aromatherapy or diluted topical applications, cinnamon essential oil can help reduce nausea and soothe gastrointestinal discomfort. It is often recommended for use in diffusers or as a massage oil to promote relaxation and ease digestive distress.
However, it is important to use the oil in properly diluted form to avoid skin irritation and to consult with a healthcare professional before use, especially for those with existing medical conditions.
4. Curcuma longa
Curcuma longa, commonly known as turmeric, is a popular herb used in traditional medicine for its various health benefits, including its potential to alleviate symptoms of an upset stomach.
The essential oils derived from Curcuma longa contain bioactive compounds such as curcuminoids, which possess anti-inflammatory and antioxidant properties that may help reduce gastrointestinal discomfort. These oils can be used in aromatherapy or diluted in carrier oils for topical application, offering a natural approach to soothe nausea and bloating. However, it is important to consult a healthcare professional before using these essential oils, as they may interact with certain medications or cause irritation if not properly diluted.
Overall, Curcuma longa essential oils present a promising complementary therapy for managing mild digestive issues.
5. Melissa officinalis
Melissa officinalis, commonly known as lemon balm, is a herb widely used in aromatherapy and herbal medicine for its calming and digestive benefits.
Its essential oil, derived from the leaves of the plant, contains compounds such as linalool and citral, which have been shown to support digestive health. Lemon balm essential oil can help soothe an upset stomach by reducing nausea and easing gastrointestinal discomfort. When used in aromatherapy diffusers or applied topically (diluted with a carrier oil), it may promote relaxation and ease digestive spasms.
However, it is important to consult with a healthcare professional before using essential oils, especially for individuals with existing medical conditions or those taking medications.
6. Foeniculum vulgare
Foeniculum vulgare, commonly known as fennel, is a herb widely used in aromatherapy for its calming and digestive benefits.
The essential oil derived from fennel seeds contains compounds like anethole, which have been shown to support digestive health and ease symptoms of an upset stomach. When used in diffusers or applied topically (diluted with a carrier oil), fennel essential oil can help reduce bloating, gas, and nausea by promoting smooth muscle relaxation in the gastrointestinal tract. It is often recommended as a natural remedy for digestive discomfort, particularly in infants and adults experiencing mild digestive issues.
However, it should be used with caution and under professional guidance, especially for pregnant women or those with existing medical conditions.
7. Cuminum cyminum
Cuminum cyminum, commonly known as cumin, is a widely used herb whose essential oil has been traditionally valued for its digestive benefits.
The essential oil of cumin contains compounds such as limonene and cumin aldehyde, which may help soothe an upset stomach by reducing gas and bloating. When used in aromatherapy or diluted in a carrier oil, cumin essential oil can promote relaxation and ease gastrointestinal discomfort. However, it is important to use it cautiously, as excessive use may cause irritation or allergic reactions.
Overall, cumin essential oil can be a natural complementary remedy for mild digestive upset when used appropriately.
8. Nigella sativa
Nigella sativa, commonly known as black cumin, has been traditionally used for its medicinal properties, and its essential oils are believed to offer relief for an upset stomach.
The essential oil derived from the seeds contains compounds like thymoquinone, which may have anti-inflammatory and antispasmodic effects that help soothe gastrointestinal discomfort. When used in aromatherapy or diluted for topical application, it may help reduce bloating, nausea, and digestive cramps. However, it is important to consult a healthcare professional before using nigella sativa essential oil, as it can interact with certain medications or cause adverse reactions in some individuals.
Overall, while preliminary research suggests potential benefits, more studies are needed to fully understand its efficacy and safety for treating upset stomachs.
9. Silybum marianum
Silybum marianum, also known as milk thistle, is traditionally used for its potential health benefits, including support for digestive health.
While it is more commonly recognized for its liver-protecting properties, some essential oils derived from the plant may offer relief for an upset stomach due to their anti-inflammatory and antispasmodic effects. These essential oils can help soothe gastrointestinal discomfort by reducing inflammation and easing muscle spasms in the digestive tract. However, it is important to note that the use of silybum marianum essential oils for stomach issues should be approached with caution, as they may interact with certain medications or cause allergic reactions in some individuals.
Always consult a healthcare professional before using these oils, especially for prolonged or severe digestive problems.
10. Rosa canina
Rosa canina, also known as dog rose, is a traditional herbal remedy that has been used for centuries to support digestive health.
Its essential oils, derived from the flowers and berries, contain compounds with anti-inflammatory and antispasmodic properties that may help alleviate symptoms of an upset stomach. These oils are believed to soothe the gastrointestinal tract by reducing irritation and easing muscle spasms. When used in aromatherapy or diluted in a carrier oil, Rosa canina essential oils can provide a calming effect on the digestive system.
However, it is important to consult with a healthcare professional before using these oils, especially for individuals with existing medical conditions or those taking medications.