10 best herbal essential oils for bloating

Herbal essential oils for bloating are natural remedies derived from plants, shrubs, and trees, which offer relief from uncomfortable abdominal distension.

These oils help to relax muscles, reduce inflammation, and regulate digestion, thereby alleviating symptoms of bloating. For instance, peppermint oil can calm digestive issues, while ginger oil has anti-inflammatory properties that ease discomfort.

Using these oils through inhalation, massage, or topical application can significantly improve one's quality of life, allowing individuals to feel more confident and comfortable in their own skin.

The following article describes in detail the most important essential oils for bloating, including medicinal properties, parts of herbs to use, and recipes for preparations.

1. Mentha x piperita

Peppermint essential oils helps with bloating because of its natural digestive benefits.

The oil's menthol content relaxes the muscles in the abdominal area, easing spasms and cramps that can contribute to discomfort and swelling. Additionally, peppermint's calming properties help reduce inflammation and improve gut motility, allowing for a smoother digestion process.

As a result, herbal peppermint essential oils can provide fast and effective relief from bloating and its accompanying symptoms.

The list below shows the primary active constituents in peppermint essential oils that aid with bloating.

• Digestive stimulant: Peppermint oil's digestive stimulant property helps to ease digestion and reduce symptoms of bloating by increasing gastric motility, reducing spasms in the digestive tract, and relieving cramps.
• Anti-inflammatory: The anti-inflammatory properties of peppermint oil help to reduce inflammation in the digestive tract, which can contribute to bloating, and also alleviate symptoms such as abdominal pain and discomfort.
• Carminative: Peppermint oil's carminative property helps to dispel gas and ease flatulence, which is a common symptom of bloating, by relaxing the muscles in the digestive tract and reducing gas production.

The list below shows the primary parts of peppermint used to make essential oils for bloating.

• Roots: The roots contain a high concentration of menthol, which helps to relieve digestive discomfort and alleviate symptoms of bloating.
• Barks: The barks of the peppermint plant contain a compound called limonene, which has natural anti-inflammatory properties that can help to soothe an upset stomach.

The following recipe gives a procedure to make a basic peppermint for bloating.

1. Harvest high-quality mentha x piperita leaves in the morning when they are at their peak potency.
2. Steam distill the harvested leaves with distilled water in a ratio of 1:4 for 30-40 minutes.
3. Monitor the distillation process to collect the essential oil as it separates from the hydrosol.
4. Combine the collected essential oil with a carrier oil like jojoba or sweet almond oil at a 5% dilution rate.
5. Store the final product in dark glass bottles and use within 6 months for optimal therapeutic benefits.

2. Zingiber officinale

Ginger essential oils helps with bloating because of its natural anti-inflammatory properties, which help to reduce swelling in the digestive tract.

The oil's warming and calming effects also aid in improving digestion, reducing muscle spasms, and relaxing the stomach muscles.

As a result, ginger essential oil can alleviate symptoms of bloating, such as discomfort, gas, and nausea, allowing for a more comfortable and relaxed digestive process.

The list below shows the primary active constituents in ginger essential oils that aid with bloating.

• Digestive stimulant: Herbal ginger essential oil helps stimulate digestion and relieve bloating by increasing gastric motility, which helps move food through the digestive system more efficiently.
• Anti-inflammatory: Ginger's anti-inflammatory properties can help reduce inflammation in the digestive tract, which is often a contributing factor to bloating and discomfort.
• Carminative: Ginger essential oil has carminative properties, which means it can help dispel gas and alleviate feelings of bloating by stimulating the release of gases from the digestive system.

The list below shows the primary parts of ginger used to make essential oils for bloating.

• Rhyzomes: Rhyzomes are used to make ginger essential oil, which has natural anti-inflammatory properties that help alleviate bloating and digestive issues.
• Roots: Ginger roots are rich in antioxidants and have natural carminative properties, making them effective in reducing bloating and discomfort caused by gas and indigestion.

The following recipe gives a procedure to make a basic ginger for bloating.

1. Harvest fresh ginger roots in the early morning and wash them gently under cold running water.
2. Dry the ginger roots for 24 hours at room temperature or use a food dehydrator on low heat.
3. Use 500 grams of dried ginger roots and grind them into a fine powder using a spice grinder.
4. Add 1 liter of carrier oil such as coconut or sweet almond oil to the powdered ginger and stir well.
5. Steep the mixture for 2 weeks in a dark glass jar, shaking daily, before filtering out the solids and storing.

3. Foeniculum vulgare

Fennel essential oils helps with bloating because of its natural carminative properties, which relieve digestive discomfort by reducing gas and inflammation in the stomach.

The oil's active compounds, such as fenchone and anethole, have a soothing effect on the intestines, alleviating symptoms like abdominal cramps, diarrhea, and constipation.

Additionally, fennel's anti-inflammatory properties help to reduce swelling and irritation in the digestive tract, allowing for smoother digestion and relief from bloating.

The list below shows the primary active constituents in fennel essential oils that aid with bloating.

• Digestive stimulant: Fennel essential oil stimulates digestion and helps relieve bloating by increasing digestive enzymes and improving gut motility, reducing symptoms such as discomfort, cramping, and flatulence.
• Anti-inflammatory: Fennel essential oil has anti-inflammatory properties that can help reduce inflammation in the digestive tract, which can contribute to bloating and other digestive issues, promoting a healthy gut environment.
• Carminative: Fennel essential oil is a natural carminative, meaning it helps to release trapped gas from the digestive system, reducing bloating and discomfort caused by swallowed air or undigested food.

The list below shows the primary parts of fennel used to make essential oils for bloating.

• Roots: Fennel roots are rich in anti-inflammatory compounds, making them an effective natural remedy for soothing digestive issues like bloating.
• Seeds: Fennel seeds contain carminative and anti-flatulent properties, which help to ease bloating and gas discomfort by reducing inflammation and spasms in the digestive tract.

The following recipe gives a procedure to make a basic fennel for bloating.

1. Harvest high-quality foeniculum vulgare leaves and stems at dawn or early morning for optimal oil yield.
2. Clean the harvested plant material by gently brushing off dirt and debris using a soft-bristled brush.
3. Dry the cleaned plant material in a warm, dry place away from direct sunlight to reduce moisture content to 12%.
4. Steam distill the dried foeniculum vulgare plant material with water at a ratio of 1:2 for 3 hours and 15 minutes.
5. Filter the resulting essential oil using a coffee filter paper or a buchner funnel to remove impurities and sediment.

4. Matricaria chamomilla

Chamomile essential oils helps with bloating because it has natural anti-inflammatory properties that soothe the digestive system.

Its calming effects can ease muscle spasms in the abdomen, reducing discomfort and cramping caused by bloating. Additionally, chamomile's antimicrobial properties can help regulate gut bacteria, preventing the buildup of toxins that contribute to bloating.

By promoting relaxation and digestion, chamomile essential oil can alleviate symptoms of bloating and leave you feeling lighter and more comfortable.

The list below shows the primary active constituents in chamomile essential oils that aid with bloating.

• Anti-inflammatory property: Chamomile essential oil has anti-inflammatory properties that can help reduce inflammation in the digestive tract, which may contribute to bloating and discomfort.
• Antispasmodic property: The antispasmodic properties of chamomile essential oil can help relax the muscles in the digestive tract and relieve spasms or cramps that may be causing bloating and discomfort.
• Calming and soothing property: Chamomile essential oil has a calming and soothing effect on the mind and body, which can help reduce stress and anxiety-related bloating and discomfort.

The list below shows the primary parts of chamomile used to make essential oils for bloating.

• Roots: Rich in apigenin and luteolin, which help to soothe digestive issues and reduce inflammation associated with bloating.
• Flowers: Contain anti-inflammatory compounds that relax the muscles in the digestive tract, reducing spasms and discomfort caused by bloating.

The following recipe gives a procedure to make a basic chamomile for bloating.

1. Harvest fresh matricaria chamomilla flowers on a sunny day for optimal potency and aroma.
2. Dry the flowers in a warm dark place or using a food dehydrator at 60°c for 24 hours.
3. Combine 100g of dried matricaria chamomilla flowers with 500ml of carrier oil like sweet almond oil in a clean glass jar.
4. Steep the mixture in a cool dark place for 14 days, shaking daily to facilitate extraction and infusion.
5. Filter the infused oil through a coffee filter or cheesecloth into another clean glass container, discarding solids after 2 hours of preparation time.

5. Melissa officinalis

Lemon balm essential oils helps with bloating because of its natural anti-inflammatory properties, which help to soothe the digestive tract and reduce discomfort.

The oil's calming effects on the nervous system can also alleviate stress-related digestive issues that often contribute to bloating.

Additionally, lemon balm's carminative properties help to dispel gas and promote the elimination of waste products from the body, providing fast and effective relief from bloating and discomfort.

The list below shows the primary active constituents in lemon balm essential oils that aid with bloating.

• Antispasmodic property: Herbal lemon balm essential oil helps relax the muscles in the digestive tract, reducing spasms and cramping that can contribute to bloating.
• Anti-inflammatory property: Lemon balm essential oil has anti-inflammatory compounds that help reduce inflammation in the digestive system, which can lead to bloating and discomfort.
• Carminative property: The carminative properties of lemon balm essential oil help eliminate gas and flatulence from the body, providing relief from bloating and discomfort.

The list below shows the primary parts of lemon balm used to make essential oils for bloating.

• Roots: The roots of the lemon balm plant contain a higher concentration of bioactive compounds, making them ideal for extracting essential oils that can effectively alleviate bloating symptoms.
• Leaves: The leaves of the lemon balm plant are rich in volatile oils and flavonoids, which have been traditionally used to ease digestive discomfort and reduce bloating.

The following recipe gives a procedure to make a basic lemon balm for bloating.

1. Harvest fresh melissa officinalis leaves in early morning dew ensuring optimal oil content.
2. Clean the harvested leaves by gently washing them with distilled water and drying with clean paper towels.
3. Steam distill the dried melissa officinalis leaves using a clevenger apparatus for 3 hours at atmospheric pressure.
4. Combine the resulting essential oil with jojoba carrier oil in a 5% dilution ratio taking approximately 30 minutes to prepare.
5. Filter and bottle the final blend using a coffee filter or cheesecloth ensuring no sediment remains.

6. Anethum graveolens

Dill essential oils helps with bloating because of its natural digestive properties.

It contains compounds that have anti-inflammatory and antispasmodic effects, which can help to ease digestion and reduce inflammation in the stomach and intestines. Additionally, dill's carvone content can stimulate the production of digestive enzymes, aiding in the breakdown of nutrients and reducing bloating symptoms.

By promoting healthy digestion and reducing discomfort, herbal dill essential oils can provide relief from bloating and promote overall digestive well-being.

The list below shows the primary active constituents in dill essential oils that aid with bloating.

• Carminative properties: Herbal dill essential oil helps to relieve bloating by preventing the formation of gas in the digestive tract and reducing the discomfort associated with it.
• Antispasmodic properties: Dill oil's antispasmodic properties can help alleviate abdominal cramps, spasms, and discomfort caused by bloating, providing relief from uncomfortable digestive issues.
• Anti-inflammatory properties: Herbal dill essential oil has anti-inflammatory properties that may help reduce inflammation in the digestive tract, which can contribute to bloating and other symptoms.

The list below shows the primary parts of dill used to make essential oils for bloating.

• Roots: The roots of the dill plant contain compounds like carvone and limonene, which help to reduce bloating by relaxing digestive muscles and relieving gas and discomfort.
• Seeds: Dill seeds have been traditionally used in Ayurvedic medicine to alleviate symptoms of indigestion, including bloating, by regulating digestion and reducing inflammation.

The following recipe gives a procedure to make a basic dill for bloating.

1. Harvest fresh fennel leaves measuring approximately 500 grams for optimal potency and flavor.
2. Dry the harvested fennel leaves in a well-ventilated area or using a food dehydrator at 55°c for 6 hours.
3. Steam distill the dried fennel leaves using a steam distillation apparatus with 10 milliliters of water for 2 hours.
4. Collect and filter the resulting essential oil, yielding approximately 1.5 milliliters of pure anethum graveolens essential oil.
5. Store the finished essential oil in dark glass bottles at room temperature away from direct sunlight or heat sources.

7. Petroselinum crispum

Parsley essential oils helps with bloating because of its natural carminative properties, which help to alleviate digestive discomfort and relieve gas buildup in the body.

The oil's active compounds, such as apigenin and linalool, have been shown to soothe the stomach lining and reduce inflammation, making it an effective remedy for combating bloating and promoting a sense of lightness and relief after meals.

The list below shows the primary active constituents in parsley essential oils that aid with bloating.

• Digestive enzymes: Parsley contains digestive enzymes like amylase and lipase that can aid in digestion, reducing symptoms of bloating and discomfort.
• Carminative properties: Parsley has natural carminative properties, which means it can help to reduce flatulence and relieve symptoms of bloating by breaking down gas bubbles in the stomach.
• Antispasmodic properties: The anti-inflammatory compounds found in parsley, such as apiol and myristicin, may help to relax the muscles in the digestive tract and reduce spasms that can contribute to bloating.

The list below shows the primary parts of parsley used to make essential oils for bloating.

• Roots: Rich in antioxidants and volatile compounds, parsley roots help reduce inflammation and alleviate bloating symptoms.
• Seeds: Containing carotenoids and flavonoids, parsley seeds support digestive health and ease bloating discomfort.

The following recipe gives a procedure to make a basic parsley for bloating.

1. Harvest fresh petroselinum crispum leaves in the morning for maximum oil content and potency.
2. Dry the harvested leaves using a food dehydrator at 60°c for 6 hours or air-drying method for 3 days.
3. Crush the dried leaves into small pieces and mix with carrier oil like jojoba or sweet almond oil at a ratio of 1:3.
4. Steam distill the mixture in a glass still for 2 hours, collecting the essential oil in a clean container as it separates from water.
5. Filter the collected essential oil through a coffee filter or cotton cloth to remove any impurities and store in a dark glass bottle at room temperature.

8. Artemisia dracunculus

Tarragon essential oils helps with bloating because of its natural anti-inflammatory properties, which soothe the digestive system and reduce swelling in the abdomen.

The oil's antimicrobial qualities also help to eliminate harmful bacteria that can cause gas and discomfort.

Additionally, tarragon's carminative properties help to ease digestion and relieve flatulence, promoting a smoother flow of nutrients through the body and reducing bloating.

The list below shows the primary active constituents in tarragon essential oils that aid with bloating.

• Carminative property: Tarragon essential oil has a carminative effect, which means it helps to eliminate gas and reduce discomfort from bloating by relaxing the muscles in the digestive tract.
• Anti-inflammatory property: The anti-inflammatory compounds present in tarragon essential oil can help reduce inflammation in the digestive tract, which may contribute to bloating symptoms such as abdominal pain and discomfort.
• Antispasmodic property: Tarragon essential oil has an antispasmodic effect, which means it helps to relax and calm the muscles in the digestive tract, reducing spasms and cramps that can exacerbate bloating.

The list below shows the primary parts of tarragon used to make essential oils for bloating.

• Roots: The roots of tarragon are rich in antioxidants and have anti-inflammatory properties, making them effective in reducing bloating symptoms.
• Seeds: Tarragon seeds contain a high amount of volatile oils that help to relieve digestive discomfort and alleviate bloating.

The following recipe gives a procedure to make a basic tarragon for bloating.

1. Harvest high-quality fresh or dried artemisia dracunculus leaves in sufficient quantity for the desired oil yield.
2. Dry the harvested leaves using air circulation or low-temperature dehydration methods within 24 hours to preserve their volatile compounds.
3. Use a plant press or mortar and pestle to crush the dried leaves into small pieces, releasing their essential oils.
4. Steam distill the crushed leaves in a suitable apparatus with water for 1-2 hours, collecting the resulting oil-laden vapor.
5. Separate the distilled essential oil from water using a separator or decantation method within an hour of collection to preserve its therapeutic properties.

9. Salvia officinalis

Sage essential oils helps with bloating because of its natural anti-inflammatory properties that soothe digestive issues.

The oil's calming effect on the stomach muscles reduces spasms and cramping, allowing for a smoother digestion process. Additionally, sage's carnosic acid content has been shown to inhibit the growth of harmful bacteria in the gut, promoting a healthier balance of microorganisms.

By incorporating sage essential oils into your wellness routine, you can experience relief from bloating and discomfort, restoring a sense of digestive harmony and overall well-being.

The list below shows the primary active constituents in sage essential oils that aid with bloating.

• Carminative properties: Sage essential oil helps to ease digestive discomfort and reduce bloating by relaxing the muscles in the stomach and intestines, allowing gas to pass more easily through the system.
• Antispasmodic properties: Sage oil's ability to relax spasming muscles in the digestive tract can help alleviate cramps, discomfort, and pressure associated with bloating, providing relief from symptoms.
• Antioxidant and anti-inflammatory properties: Sage essential oil's antioxidant and anti-inflammatory properties may help reduce inflammation in the digestive system, which can contribute to bloating and discomfort, while also protecting against oxidative stress.

The list below shows the primary parts of sage used to make essential oils for bloating.

• Roots: The roots of the sage plant contain a high concentration of bioactive compounds, making them an ideal choice for extracting essential oils that can help alleviate symptoms of bloating.
• Barks: Sage barks have been traditionally used in herbal medicine to treat digestive issues, including bloating, due to their antispasmodic and anti-inflammatory properties.

The following recipe gives a procedure to make a basic sage for bloating.

1. Harvest fresh salvia officinalis leaves and dry them in a single layer on paper towels for 24 hours.
2. Combine 100 grams of dried salvia officinalis with 400 milliliters of carrier oil such as coconut or olive oil.
3. Steam distill the mixture using a still at a temperature not exceeding 105 degrees celsius for 30 minutes.
4. Collect the essential oil and filter it through a coffee filter to remove impurities and sediment.
5. Store the salvia officinalis essential oil in dark glass bottles with tight-fitting lids at room temperature for up to six months.

10. Thymus vulgaris

Thyme essential oils helps with bloating because of its natural digestive properties.

The oil's active compounds, such as thymol and carvacrol, have been shown to ease digestive discomfort by reducing inflammation in the gut and relaxing muscles in the stomach and intestines. This can help alleviate symptoms of bloating, such as discomfort, nausea, and gas.

Additionally, thyme oil has natural antispasmodic properties that can help soothe and calm an irritated digestive tract, promoting a sense of relief and balance.

The list below shows the primary active constituents in thyme essential oils that aid with bloating.

• Digestive stimulant: Thyme essential oil has been shown to stimulate digestion and relieve symptoms of bloating by increasing the release of digestive enzymes, which helps to break down food more efficiently.
• Antispasmodic: Thyme essential oil's antispasmodic properties help to relax the muscles in the digestive tract, reducing spasms and cramps that can contribute to feelings of bloating and discomfort.
• Carminative: Thyme essential oil has a carminative effect, meaning it helps to release trapped gas from the digestive system, which can alleviate bloating and reduce discomfort.

The list below shows the primary parts of thyme used to make essential oils for bloating.

• Roots: Thyme roots contain a high concentration of sesquiterpenes, which have anti-inflammatory properties that can help alleviate bloating and digestive discomfort.
• Seeds: Thyme seeds contain a unique blend of flavonoids and terpenes that have been shown to reduce inflammation in the gut and relieve symptoms of bloating.

The following recipe gives a procedure to make a basic thyme for bloating.

1. Harvest fresh thyme leaves from a reputable supplier or your own garden.
2. Dry the harvested thyme leaves in a warm air circulation oven at 40°c for 24 hours.
3. Place the dried thyme leaves in a glass jar and add 200ml of high-quality carrier oil such as sweet almond oil.
4. Seal the jar tightly and store it in a cool dark place for 14 days allowing the infusion to take place.
5. Strain the mixture through a cheesecloth or coffee filter into another clean glass container discarding the solids.

How to best treat bloating with herbal essential oils?

The best way to treat bloating with herbal essential oils is by using a blend of digestive-aiding oils like peppermint, ginger, and fennel.

Peppermint oil helps relax the muscles in the digestive tract, reducing cramps and spasms, while ginger oil aids digestion and reduces inflammation. Fennel oil, rich in fiber, helps regulate bowel movements and alleviate bloating.

Mix 5-7 drops of this blend with a carrier oil and massage onto the abdomen or inhale through steam inhalation for quick relief.

What ailments similar to bloating are treated with herbal essential oils?

Ailments similar to bloating that are treated with herbal essential oils are digestive issues such as constipation, indigestion, and irritable bowel syndrome (IBS).

Certain herbs like peppermint, ginger, and fennel have natural anti-inflammatory properties that help soothe the digestive system and alleviate symptoms of discomfort.

These essential oils can be used topically or in aromatherapy to promote relaxation and ease digestion, providing relief from bloating and related discomforts.