10 Best Herbal Essential Oils For Upset Stomach
Herbal essential oils, such as peppermint, ginger, and chamomile, are commonly used to alleviate symptoms of an upset stomach due to their soothing and anti-inflammatory properties.
Peppermint oil is particularly effective for relieving gas and bloating, while ginger oil can help reduce nausea and vomiting. These oils can be applied topically, inhaled, or diluted in a carrier oil for internal use, though it's important to follow proper dilution guidelines to avoid skin irritation. Many people find relief through aromatherapy or abdominal massage with these essential oils, which can help relax the digestive system.
However, it's always advisable to consult a healthcare professional before using essential oils, especially for those with underlying health conditions or during pregnancy.
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Table of Contents
1. Curcuma longa
Curcuma longa, commonly known as turmeric, is a well-known herb that has been traditionally used for its therapeutic properties, including its ability to support digestive health.
The essential oils derived from Curcuma longa contain bioactive compounds such as curcuminoids, which are believed to have anti-inflammatory and antioxidant effects that may help alleviate symptoms of an upset stomach. These essential oils can be used in aromatherapy or diluted in a carrier oil for topical application, offering a natural alternative for digestive discomfort. Research suggests that the anti-inflammatory properties of curcuma longa may help reduce gastrointestinal irritation and promote healing of the stomach lining.
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.
2. Foeniculum vulgare
Foeniculum vulgare, commonly known as fennel, is a versatile herb whose essential oil has been traditionally used to alleviate symptoms of an upset stomach.
The oil contains compounds such as anethole, which possess carminative and antispasmodic properties that help reduce gas, bloating, and cramping. When used in aromatherapy or diluted in a carrier oil, fennel essential oil can soothe the digestive system and promote healthy digestion. It is often recommended for infants and adults suffering from digestive discomfort, though it should be used with caution and under professional guidance.
Overall, fennel essential oil offers a natural and effective remedy for various digestive ailments.
3. Cuminum cyminum
Cuminum cyminum, commonly known as cumin, is a valuable herb whose essential oil has been traditionally used to alleviate symptoms of an upset stomach.
The oil contains compounds like limonene and alpha-pinene, which possess carminative and antispasmodic properties that help reduce gas, bloating, and cramping. When used in aromatherapy or diluted in a carrier oil, cumin essential oil can soothe digestive discomfort and promote a sense of well-being. Its warming effect may also aid in improving digestion by stimulating the production of digestive enzymes.
However, it is important to use cumin essential oil in moderation and consult a healthcare professional before incorporating it into a treatment regimen for persistent digestive issues.
4. Zingiber officinale
Zingiber officinale, commonly known as ginger, is widely recognized for its medicinal properties, particularly in alleviating upset stomach symptoms.
The essential oils derived from ginger contain bioactive compounds such as gingerol and shogaol, which possess anti-inflammatory and carminative effects. These oils can help reduce nausea, vomiting, and bloating by soothing the gastrointestinal tract and enhancing digestion. When used in aromatherapy or as a topical application, ginger essential oil may provide relief from digestive discomfort.
However, it is important to dilute the oil properly and consult a healthcare professional before use, especially for individuals with sensitive skin or underlying health conditions.
5. Thymus vulgaris
Thymus vulgaris, commonly known as thyme, is a popular herb used in aromatherapy and herbal medicine for its potent essential oils.
The essential oil of thyme contains compounds like thymol and carvacrol, which have strong antispasmodic and digestive properties. These compounds can help alleviate symptoms of an upset stomach by reducing bloating, gas, and muscle spasms in the digestive tract. When used in aromatherapy or applied topically, thyme essential oil can also provide a calming effect, supporting overall digestive wellness.
However, it is important to dilute the oil properly and consult with a healthcare professional before use, especially for those with sensitive skin or underlying health conditions.
6. Glycyrrhiza glabra
Glycyrrhiza glabra, commonly known as licorice, contains essential oils that have been traditionally used to support digestive health.
The essential oils derived from licorice root are rich in compounds such as glycyrrhizin and various flavonoids, which possess anti-inflammatory and antispasmodic properties. These properties make licorice essential oils beneficial for alleviating symptoms of an upset stomach, such as bloating, nausea, and indigestion. The oils may help soothe the gastrointestinal tract by reducing irritation and promoting a more balanced digestive environment.
However, due to its potential to increase blood pressure, licorice essential oils should be used with caution and under the guidance of a healthcare professional.
7. Piper nigrum
Piper nigrum, commonly known as black pepper, is often used in herbal essential oils for its potential digestive benefits.
The essential oil derived from black pepper contains compounds like piperine, which may help stimulate digestion and alleviate symptoms of an upset stomach. When used appropriately, these essential oils can act as a natural remedy to reduce bloating, nausea, and indigestion. However, it is important to dilute the oil properly before use to avoid skin irritation.
As with any herbal remedy, it is advisable to consult with a healthcare professional before incorporating piper nigrum essential oils into your wellness routine.
8. Mentha piperita
Mentha piperita, commonly known as peppermint, is a popular herb used in the production of essential oils that are widely recognized for their soothing effects on the digestive system.
The essential oil of peppermint contains active compounds such as menthol and menthone, which have been shown to help alleviate symptoms of an upset stomach by relaxing the muscles of the gastrointestinal tract. It is often used in aromatherapy or as a topical application to relieve bloating, gas, and nausea. Peppermint essential oil can also be taken internally in diluted form, though it is important to consult a healthcare professional before using it for medicinal purposes.
Due to its calming and antispasmodic properties, peppermint essential oil is a natural remedy that many people turn to for digestive discomfort.
9. Cinnamomum zeylanicum
Cinnamomum zeylanicum, commonly known as cinnamon, produces a warm and aromatic essential oil that has been traditionally used for its digestive benefits.
This 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 in a carrier oil, cinnamon essential oil can help soothe nausea and reduce gastrointestinal discomfort. It is often recommended for its ability to stimulate digestion and ease bloating.
However, it is important to use it in moderation and consult a healthcare professional before incorporating it into a treatment regimen for digestive issues.
10. Peperomia pellucida
Peperomia pellucida, also known as "Java nettle" or "Mexican nettle," is a herb traditionally used in herbal medicine for its various health benefits, including soothing upset stomachs.
The essential oils derived from this plant contain compounds such as flavonoids and tannins, which are believed to possess anti-inflammatory and antispasmodic properties. These oils may help alleviate symptoms like nausea, bloating, and cramping by calming the digestive system. When used appropriately, peperomia pellucida essential oils can be a natural remedy for mild gastrointestinal discomfort.
However, it is important to consult with a healthcare professional before using essential oils, especially for prolonged or severe stomach issues.