10 best herbal essential oils for constipation

Herbal essential oils for constipation are a natural and effective way to alleviate symptoms of constipation, promoting regular bowel movements and relieving discomfort.

These oils work by stimulating digestion, reducing inflammation, and improving gut motility. Examples of herbal essential oils that help with constipation include peppermint, fennel, and ginger, which can be inhaled or applied topically through a carrier oil.

By using these oils, individuals can improve their quality of life by experiencing reduced bloating, less straining during bowel movements, and increased energy levels.

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

1. Foeniculum vulgare

Fennel essential oils helps with constipation because of its natural lubricating properties that soothe and relax the digestive tract.

The oil's anise-like aroma stimulates digestion, reducing inflammation and spasms in the colon that can contribute to constipation. Additionally, fennel essential oil's carminative properties help expel gas and bloating, allowing stool to pass more easily through the intestines.

By promoting regular bowel movements and easing digestive discomfort, fennel essential oil provides natural relief from constipation symptoms.

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

• Carminative property: Fennel essential oil helps to relieve bloating, gas, and abdominal discomfort associated with constipation by relaxing the muscles in the digestive tract and reducing spasms.
• Anti-inflammatory property: Fennel oil's anti-inflammatory properties reduce inflammation in the digestive tract, which can contribute to constipation, and help to soothe and calm the mucous membranes lining the gut.
• Stimulant property: Fennel essential oil's stimulant properties increase intestinal motility, helping to move food through the digestive system more efficiently and prevent or alleviate constipation.

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

• Roots: The roots of the fennel plant contain compounds that can help stimulate digestive enzymes and improve bowel function, making them an effective part for treating constipation.
• Seeds: Fennel seeds have been traditionally used to treat digestive issues, including constipation, due to their ability to relax the muscles in the intestinal tract and increase digestion.

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

1. Harvest fresh foeniculum vulgare leaves and stems in the morning for optimal potency.
2. Wash the harvested plant material with distilled water to remove impurities thoroughly.
3. Steam distill the plant material using a still or a mini-distiller at atmospheric pressure slowly.
4. Collect the essential oil as it condenses into a container at room temperature promptly.
5. Filter the collected essential oil through paper filter or cheesecloth to remove sediment quickly.

2. Artemisia absinthium

Wormwood essential oils helps with constipation because of its unique ability to stimulate digestion and relieve intestinal discomfort.

The oil's active compounds, such as absinthin and thujone, have been shown to increase gut motility, reducing the risk of constipation and promoting regular bowel movements. Additionally, wormwood essential oils has anti-inflammatory properties that help soothe the digestive tract, reducing inflammation and irritation that can contribute to chronic constipation.

This natural remedy is a safe and effective way to maintain a healthy digestive system.

The list below shows the primary active constituents in wormwood essential oils that aid with constipation.

• Antispasmodic properties: Wormwood essential oil's antispasmodic properties can help relax and soothe the muscles in the digestive tract, reducing spasms and cramps that can contribute to constipation.
• Anti-inflammatory properties: The anti-inflammatory properties of wormwood essential oil can help reduce inflammation in the digestive tract, which can contribute to constipation by slowing down digestion and bowel movements.
• Stimulant properties: Wormwood essential oil's stimulant properties can help stimulate bowel movements and increase appetite, both of which can be helpful in alleviating symptoms of constipation.

The list below shows the primary parts of wormwood used to make essential oils for constipation.

• Roots: Wormwood roots contain sesquiterpenes, which help to stimulate digestive enzymes and relieve constipation.
• Barks: Wormwood barks have been traditionally used to treat digestive issues, including constipation, due to their ability to relax the muscles in the intestines.

The following recipe gives a procedure to make a basic wormwood for constipation.

1. Harvest fresh or dried artemisia absinthium leaves in the early morning for optimal oil quality.
2. Chop the harvested leaves into small pieces to increase surface area and facilitate steam distillation.
3. Combine one part chopped artemisia absinthium leaves with three parts distilled water in a stainless steel steam distillation apparatus.
4. Distill the mixture using high-pressure steam for 1-2 hours or until the oil yield reaches 2-5%.
5. Filter the resulting essential oil through a coffee filter or paper filter to remove impurities and debris.

3. Angelica archangelica

Angelica essential oils helps with constipation because of its natural properties that stimulate digestion and relieve bloating.

The oil contains a compound called asarone, which has been shown to relax the muscles in the digestive tract, increasing bowel movements and reducing symptoms of constipation. Additionally, angelica's anti-inflammatory properties may help soothe the gut lining, reducing irritation and discomfort associated with constipation.

By promoting regular digestion and reducing inflammation, angelica essential oils can provide natural relief from constipation.

The list below shows the primary active constituents in angelica essential oils that aid with constipation.

• Carminative property: Angelica essential oil helps to expel gas from the digestive tract, reducing bloating and discomfort that often accompanies constipation.
• Antispasmodic property: The oil's antispasmodic effects can help relieve cramps and spasms in the intestinal muscles, making it easier for stool to pass through the colon and alleviating constipation symptoms.
• Stimulant property: Angelica essential oil has a mild stimulating effect on the digestive system, which can help increase bowel motility and encourage regular bowel movements.

The list below shows the primary parts of angelica used to make essential oils for constipation.

• Roots: The roots of Angelica are rich in volatile oils that help to stimulate bowel movements and relieve symptoms of constipation.
• Barks: The barks of Angelica contain compounds that help to soften stool, making it easier to pass and providing relief from constipation.

The following recipe gives a procedure to make a basic angelica for constipation.

1. Harvest fresh angelica archangelica leaves and stems at dawn for optimal potency.
2. Wash the harvested material thoroughly with distilled water to remove impurities.
3. Steam distill the cleaned plant material using 10-15% distillation ratio for 30-40 minutes.
4. Collect the obtained essential oil in a glass container and let it settle for 24 hours.
5. Filter the oil through a coffee filter or a paper towel to remove any sediment or impurities.

4. Melissa officinalis

Lemon balm essential oils helps with constipation because it has a soothing and calming effect on the digestive system, reducing stress and anxiety that can exacerbate constipation.

Its warm and gentle properties also stimulate digestion and relieve cramps, making it easier for the body to eliminate waste efficiently. Additionally, lemon balm's natural anti-inflammatory properties help reduce inflammation in the gut, which can contribute to constipation.

By promoting a healthy digestive environment, lemon balm essential oils can provide relief from constipation and promote regular bowel movements.

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

• Antispasmodic property: Herbal lemon balm essential oil helps relax the muscles in the digestive tract, reducing spasms and cramps that can contribute to constipation, allowing for smoother bowel movements.
• Soothing and calming effect: Lemon balm oil's gentle, calming properties can help reduce stress and anxiety, which are common underlying causes of constipation, promoting a more relaxed digestive system and regular bowel habits.
• Antioxidant and anti-inflammatory properties: Lemon balm essential oil contains antioxidants that help protect the gut lining from damage caused by free radicals and reduce inflammation in the digestive tract, which can contribute to constipation, improving overall gut health and function.

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

• Roots: The roots of the lemon balm plant are rich in antioxidants and have a calming effect, which can help soothe digestive issues related to constipation.
• Leaves: The leaves contain compounds like citral and geraniol, which have natural laxative properties that can help stimulate bowel movements.

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

1. Harvest high-quality melissa officinalis leaves and stems from well-maintained gardens.
2. Dry the harvested plant material using a warm air circulation method for 24 hours.
3. Combine one part of dried melissa officinalis with three parts of carrier oil such as sweet almond or grapeseed oil.
4. Steam distill the mixture in an all-copper still using 200ml of water and 400g of plant material for 2-3 hours.
5. Filter the resulting essential oil through a coffee filter into dark glass bottles with tight-fitting lids.

5. Cinnamomum verum

Ceylon cinnamon essential oils helps with constipation because of its natural digestive properties.

It has been traditionally used to soothe the stomach and intestines, stimulating bowel movements and reducing symptoms of constipation such as bloating and discomfort. The oil's warming and carminative effects also help to relax the muscles in the digestive tract, allowing for smoother passage of stool and a reduction in straining during bowel movements.

Regular use of Ceylon cinnamon essential oils may promote regularity and ease digestion, providing relief from constipation symptoms.

The list below shows the primary active constituents in ceylon cinnamon essential oils that aid with constipation.

• Carminative property: Ceylon cinnamon essential oil helps to relax the muscles in the digestive tract, reducing spasms and cramps that can contribute to constipation. This allows for easier passage of stool and relief from discomfort.
• Antioxidant and anti-inflammatory properties: The antioxidants and anti-inflammatory compounds present in Ceylon cinnamon essential oil help to reduce inflammation in the intestines, which can exacerbate constipation, while also protecting against oxidative stress and damage that can lead to chronic digestive issues.
• Stimulant property: Ceylon cinnamon essential oil has a gentle stimulating effect on the digestive system, increasing contractions and peristalsis, which helps to move food through the digestive tract more efficiently, reducing constipation symptoms such as bloating and discomfort.

The list below shows the primary parts of ceylon cinnamon used to make essential oils for constipation.

• Rhyzomes: Rich in cinnamic acid, a natural laxative compound that helps stimulate bowel movements and relieve constipation.
• Barks: Contain cinnamon oil, which has anti-inflammatory properties that can help soothe digestive issues and reduce symptoms of constipation.

The following recipe gives a procedure to make a basic ceylon cinnamon for constipation.

1. Harvest cinnamomum verum bark and dried it in the shade for at least two weeks.
2. Grind 100 grams of dried cinnamomum verum bark into fine powder using a spice grinder.
3. Combine ground cinnamomum verum bark with 500 milliliters of carrier oil such as sweet almond or coconut oil at a ratio of 1:5.
4. Steam distill the mixture in a double boiler for 2-3 hours until the essential oil is extracted and separated from the solids.
5. Filter the essential oil through cheesecloth into a clean glass bottle and store it in a cool dark place for future use.

6. Ginkgo biloba

Maidenhair tree essential oils helps with constipation because its unique properties stimulate digestive function, easing bowel movements and alleviating symptoms of chronic constipation.

The oil's anti-inflammatory effects soothe irritated intestinal walls, reducing spasms and discomfort associated with constipation. Additionally, maidenhair tree essential oil's natural laxative properties help to soften stool, making it easier to pass, thus promoting regular and healthy bowel movements.

Regular use can also help to regulate bowel habits and maintain a balanced digestive system.

The list below shows the primary active constituents in maidenhair tree essential oils that aid with constipation.

• Antioxidant properties: Ginkgo biloba's antioxidant compounds help protect against oxidative stress and inflammation in the digestive system, which can contribute to constipation.
• Choleretic properties: The essential oil has been shown to stimulate bile production and secretion, which helps improve digestion, absorption of nutrients, and bowel movements.
• Soothing and anti-inflammatory properties: Ginkgo biloba's essential oil contains compounds that have a calming effect on the digestive system, reducing inflammation and irritation in the gut, which can alleviate symptoms of constipation.

The list below shows the primary parts of maidenhair tree used to make essential oils for constipation.

• Roots: The roots are rich in saponins, which have been traditionally used to treat digestive issues, including constipation.
• Barks: The barks contain flavonoids and phenolic acids that help soothe and calm the digestive tract, relieving symptoms of constipation.

The following recipe gives a procedure to make a basic maidenhair tree for constipation.

1. Harvest fresh ginkgo biloba leaves and clean them thoroughly by rinsing under cool running water.
2. Steam distill the cleaned ginkgo biloba leaves using 100g of leaves for every 500ml of water at 100°c for 30 minutes.
3. Separate the essential oil from the distilled water through centrifugation or decantation and filter it using a coffee filter paper.
4. Mix the filtered essential oil with carrier oils such as sweet almond oil or coconut oil in a ratio of 1:10 for easier application.
5. Store the ginkgo biloba essential oil blend in dark glass bottles with tight-fitting lids and keep at room temperature for up to 6 months.

7. Carum carvi

Caraway essential oils helps with constipation because of its natural digestive properties that stimulate the muscles in the intestines, promoting regular bowel movements.

The oil's carvone compound has been shown to relax spasms and reduce inflammation in the digestive tract, allowing stool to pass more easily. Additionally, caraway oil's anti-inflammatory effects can help soothe irritated bowels and relieve symptoms of constipation such as bloating and discomfort.

By using herbal caraway essential oils topically or aromatically, individuals can experience relief from constipation and promote a healthy digestive system.

The list below shows the primary active constituents in caraway essential oils that aid with constipation.

• Choleretic property: Caraway essential oil helps stimulate bile production and flow, which can aid in breaking down food and relieving constipation by reducing stagnation and improving digestion.
• Anti-inflammatory property: Caraway essential oil's anti-inflammatory properties may help reduce inflammation in the digestive tract, which can contribute to constipation, and alleviate symptoms such as bloating, cramps, and discomfort.
• Carminative property: Caraway essential oil has natural carminative properties that can help relieve flatulence, bloating, and discomfort associated with constipation by reducing gas and alleviating spasms in the digestive tract.

The list below shows the primary parts of caraway used to make essential oils for constipation.

• Roots: The roots of the caraway plant are rich in sesquiterpenes, which have been shown to stimulate digestion and relieve constipation.
• Seeds: Caraway seeds contain a compound called cumic acid, which has natural laxative properties that help to soften stool and promote bowel movements.

The following recipe gives a procedure to make a basic caraway for constipation.

1. Harvest fresh carum carvi seeds and grind them into a coarse powder using a mortar and pestle.
2. Mix 20 grams of ground carum carvi seeds with 500 milliliters of carrier oil such as sweet almond or grapeseed oil.
3. Steam distill the mixture for 4-6 hours to extract the essential oils from the seeds.
4. Filter the resulting liquid through a coffee filter or cheesecloth to remove any impurities and sediment.
5. Store the carum carvi essential oil in a dark glass bottle with a tight-fitting lid, away from direct sunlight, at room temperature for up to 6 months.

8. Mentha x piperita

Peppermint essential oils helps with constipation because of its natural analgesic and antispasmodic properties, which help to relax the muscles in the digestive tract and ease discomfort associated with bowel movements.

The oil's menthol content also has a cooling effect on the intestines, increasing blood flow and stimulating contractions that help move stool through the colon more efficiently, promoting regular bowel movements and relieving constipation symptoms such as bloating, cramping, and discomfort.

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

• Irritant effect: Peppermint essential oil's irritant effect stimulates the digestive tract, increasing gut motility and helping to alleviate constipation by encouraging the passage of stool through the bowels.
• Antispasmodic properties: Peppermint essential oil's antispasmodic properties help to relax the muscles in the intestinal tract, reducing spasms and cramping that can contribute to constipation.
• Carminative properties: Peppermint essential oil's carminative properties help to reduce flatulence and gas buildup, which can contribute to constipation by further slowing down digestion and bowel movements.

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

• Roots: Rich in menthol and other beneficial compounds, peppermint roots are commonly used to create essential oils that help stimulate bowel movements and relieve symptoms of constipation.
• Barks: The barks of the peppermint plant contain high concentrations of menthone, a natural compound that helps to relax the muscles in the digestive tract and promote regular bowel function.

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

1. Harvest fresh peppermint leaves and dry them using a dehydrator or air drying method for 24 hours.
2. Crush the dried peppermint leaves into small pieces to increase their surface area and release their oils.
3. Combine the crushed peppermint leaves with carrier oil such as coconut or olive oil in a ratio of 1:4 and let it steep for 8 hours.
4. Strain the mixture through cheesecloth or a coffee filter to separate the essential oil from the solids and discard the solids.
5. Store the mentha x piperita essential oil in a dark glass bottle with an airtight lid and keep it refrigerated for up to 6 months.

9. Tilia platyphyllos

Broad-leaved lime essential oils helps with constipation because it has a profound impact on digestion, stimulating bowel movements and relieving symptoms of chronic constipation.

The oil's antispasmodic properties help to relax the muscles in the digestive tract, allowing for smoother movement of stool through the intestines. Additionally, its anti-inflammatory effects reduce inflammation in the gut, which can contribute to constipation.

By promoting regularity and easing discomfort, broad-leaved lime essential oils offer a natural solution for individuals struggling with constipation.

The list below shows the primary active constituents in broad-leaved lime essential oils that aid with constipation.

• Stimulant property: Broad-leaved lime essential oil has stimulant properties, which can help stimulate bowel movements and alleviate constipation by increasing muscle contractions and peristalsis in the intestines.
• Anti-inflammatory property: The anti-inflammatory property of broad-leaved lime essential oil may help reduce inflammation in the digestive tract, which is often associated with constipation, allowing for smoother passage of stool.
• Antioxidant property: Broad-leaved lime essential oil's antioxidant properties can help protect the gut lining from oxidative stress and damage caused by free radicals, promoting a healthy gut microbiome and regular bowel movements.

The list below shows the primary parts of broad-leaved lime used to make essential oils for constipation.

• Roots: Rich in bitter compounds, making them effective in stimulating bowel movements and relieving constipation.
• Barks: Containing tannins and flavonoids, which help to soothe and protect the digestive tract, reducing inflammation and promoting regularity.

The following recipe gives a procedure to make a basic broad-leaved lime for constipation.

1. Harvest tilia platyphyllos flowers in full bloom and dry them thoroughly using a food dehydrator at 55 degrees celsius for eight hours.
2. Combine two cups of dried tilia platyphyllos flowers with one cup of carrier oil such as sweet almond or grapeseed oil in a glass jar.
3. Place the jar in a dark cupboard for three days to allow the mixture to steep and infuse, shaking it daily.
4. After the steeping process, strain the mixture through a cheesecloth or coffee filter into another container, discarding the solids and retaining the infused oil.
5. Store the resulting essential oil in a cool dark place for up to six months or use immediately as desired, using a few drops diluted with carrier oil for topical application.

10. Crocus sativus

Saffron essential oils helps with constipation because of its natural digestive properties.

The oil's active compounds, such as safranal and crocin, have been shown to stimulate the muscles in the digestive tract, promoting regular bowel movements and reducing symptoms of constipation.

Additionally, saffron has anti-inflammatory properties that can help soothe the digestive system, reducing discomfort and bloating associated with constipation.

The list below shows the primary active constituents in saffron essential oils that aid with constipation.

• Anti-inflammatory properties: Saffron essential oil's anti-inflammatory compounds, such as crocin, help reduce inflammation in the digestive tract and alleviate symptoms of constipation.
• Carminative properties: The volatile oils present in saffron essential oil, like safranal, act as natural carminatives, helping to expel gas and reduce bloating that can contribute to constipation.
• Stimulant properties: Saffron essential oil's stimulating compounds, such as cineole, help stimulate the digestive system, increasing bowel movement frequency and alleviating symptoms of constipation.

The list below shows the primary parts of saffron used to make essential oils for constipation.

• Roots: Rich in bioactive compounds, saffron roots are excellent for creating digestive-boosting essential oils that help alleviate constipation.
• Rhyzomes: Saffron rhyzomes contain natural anti-inflammatory properties that can be used to create soothing essential oils for relieving constipation symptoms.

The following recipe gives a procedure to make a basic saffron for constipation.

1. Harvest high-quality crocus sativus flowers and leaves in the early morning hours for maximum potency.
2. Dry the harvested plant material using a clean dry cloth or machine for at least two weeks.
3. Steam distill the dried plant material using a clevenger apparatus or similar equipment for 4-6 hours.
4. Combine the resulting essential oil with a carrier oil such as coconut or jojoba oil in a 1:5 ratio and store in dark glass containers.
5. Allow the mixture to mature for at least 24 hours before filtering and bottling for use in aromatherapy blends.

How to best treat constipation with herbal essential oils?

The best way to treat constipation with herbal essential oils is to combine a few drops of oils like peppermint, ginger, and fennel with a carrier oil and massage it onto the abdomen.

This stimulates digestion and relieves symptoms such as bloating and discomfort. Alternatively, inhaling the steam from a bowl of hot water mixed with these oils can also help stimulate bowel movements and alleviate constipation.

Regular use can lead to improved regularity and overall digestive health.

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

Ailments similar to constipation that are treated with herbal essential oils are digestive disorders such as bloating, gas, and indigestion.

Certain herbs like peppermint, chamomile, and fennel have natural anti-inflammatory properties that can help soothe the stomach and ease symptoms of IBS (Irritable Bowel Syndrome).

Additionally, ginger oil has natural anti-inflammatory compounds that can help alleviate nausea and discomfort associated with digestive issues.