10 best herbal essential oils for stomach cramps

Herbal essential oils for stomach cramps are natural remedies that have been used to alleviate the discomfort and pain associated with digestive issues.

These oils, derived from plants such as peppermint, ginger, and chamomile, contain potent compounds that help soothe the digestive system and calm abdominal muscles, providing relief from cramps and spasms. For example, peppermint oil's menthol content helps relax the stomach muscles, while ginger oil's anti-inflammatory properties reduce inflammation and pain.

By using these oils in aromatherapy, massage, or topical application, individuals can experience significant improvements in digestion and overall well-being, leading to a better quality of life.

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

1. Mentha x piperita

Peppermint essential oils helps with stomach cramps because of its natural relaxant properties that soothe and calm the digestive system.

When applied topically or inhaled, peppermint oil can ease muscle spasms and reduce inflammation in the abdominal area, providing fast and effective relief from cramp-like discomforts.

Additionally, its cooling sensation can also help to ease nausea and indigestion associated with stomach cramps, promoting a sense of calmness and overall digestive well-being.

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

• Antispasmodic property: Peppermint essential oil helps to relax muscles and reduce spasms, which can provide relief from stomach cramps by calming down the digestive tract.
• Anti-inflammatory property: Peppermint essential oil has anti-inflammatory compounds that can help reduce inflammation in the digestive tract, which may contribute to stomach cramps, and also alleviate symptoms such as bloating and discomfort.
• Digestive stimulant property: Peppermint essential oil can stimulate digestion by increasing contractions of the muscles in the intestines, which can help relieve constipation and other digestive issues that may lead to stomach cramps.

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

• Roots: Peppermint roots are rich in menthol and other compounds that help to relax digestive muscles, easing stomach cramps.
• Leaves: The leaves of the peppermint plant contain high concentrations of menthone, which helps to soothe and calm the digestive system.

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

1. Harvest fresh peppermint leaves from your garden or store-bought ones with stems trimmed to 2-3 inches length.
2. Dry the peppermint leaves in small bunches tied with twine, placing them upside down in a warm dry room for 7-10 days.
3. Transfer the dried peppermint leaves to a glass jar and cover them with 100-proof vodka or everclear, ensuring complete coverage of the leaves.
4. Store the jar in a dark cupboard at room temperature for 2-3 weeks, shaking it twice daily to allow steam distillation, then strain and discard solids.
5. Collect the peppermint essential oil in a separate glass bottle after filtering the liquid through cheesecloth or coffee filters into an airtight container with tight-fitting lid for storage.

2. Zingiber officinale

Ginger essential oils helps with stomach cramps because of its natural anti-inflammatory properties.

The oil's active compounds, such as gingerol and shogaol, work to reduce inflammation and relax muscle contractions in the digestive tract, providing relief from cramping and discomfort.

Additionally, the oil's warming and soothing effects can help calm the stomach and alleviate nausea and bloating associated with cramps.

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

• Antispasmodic properties: Ginger essential oil helps relieve stomach cramps by relaxing the muscles in the digestive tract, reducing spasms and pain.
• Anti-inflammatory properties: Ginger essential oil's anti-inflammatory compounds reduce inflammation in the digestive system, which can contribute to stomach cramps and discomfort.
• Digestive stimulant properties: Ginger essential oil stimulates digestion and improves gut motility, helping to alleviate stomach cramps caused by slow or impaired digestion.

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

• Roots: Rich in sesquiterpenes and other bioactive compounds, ginger roots have anti-inflammatory properties that help alleviate stomach cramps.
• Rhyzomes: The underground stem of ginger plants, rhyzomes contain a high concentration of gingerol, a compound known to ease stomach discomfort and reduce inflammation.

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

1. Harvest fresh ginger rhizomes and peel them gently to remove the outer layer.
2. Chop the peeled ginger into small pieces and steam them in distilled water for 30 minutes.
3. Combine the steamed ginger with carrier oil such as coconut or olive oil in a ratio of 1:3.
4. Allow the mixture to macerate at room temperature for 24 hours before filtering and bottling.
5. Store the finished essential oil in dark glass bottles with tight-fitting lids and keep it away from heat.

3. Salvia sclarea

Sage essential oils helps with stomach cramps because of its natural anti-inflammatory properties, which can help to relax the muscles in the digestive tract and reduce spasms.

Additionally, sage oil has been shown to have a calming effect on the nervous system, which can help to alleviate stress and anxiety that may be exacerbating the cramping.

By applying sage essential oils topically or inhaling it through steam inhalation, individuals can experience relief from stomach cramps and discomfort.

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

• Antispasmodic property: Herbal sage essential oil helps to relax and calm spasms in the digestive tract, reducing cramping and discomfort associated with stomach cramps.
• Anti-inflammatory property: Sage essential oil's anti-inflammatory compounds help to reduce inflammation and swelling in the digestive tract, which can contribute to stomach cramps and other symptoms of gastrointestinal disorders.
• Antioxidant property: Herbal sage essential oil contains powerful antioxidants that help to neutralize free radicals and protect the digestive tract from oxidative stress, which can exacerbate stomach cramps and other gastrointestinal issues.

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

• Roots: Sage roots are rich in antioxidants and have anti-inflammatory properties that can help soothe digestive issues and alleviate stomach cramps.
• Leaves: Sage leaves contain camphor, a compound that has been traditionally used to calm digestive discomforts and reduce the frequency of stomach cramps.

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

1. Harvest fresh salvia sclarea leaves from a trusted source for optimal potency and quality.
2. Steam distill the harvested leaves in a still at a temperature of 100-150°c for 4 hours.
3. Collect the obtained essential oil in a clean glass vial, set aside to separate impurities over 24 hours.
4. Filter the essential oil through a coffee filter or fine mesh cloth to remove any remaining impurities and sediment.
5. Store the final salvia sclarea essential oil in a dark glass bottle with a tight-fitting lid at room temperature for up to 12 months.

4. Foeniculum vulgare

Fennel essential oils helps with stomach cramps because it has natural anti-inflammatory and carminative properties that soothe digestive issues.

The oil's active compounds, such as fenchone and anethole, relax the muscles in the digestive tract, reducing spasms and cramping.

Additionally, its warm and calming aroma can help to ease bloating and gas, making it a popular natural remedy for alleviating stomach discomfort and promoting overall digestive health.

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

• Carminative property: Fennel essential oil helps to relieve stomach cramps by reducing flatulence and gas, which can contribute to discomfort and pain in the abdomen.
• Spasmolytic property: Fennel essential oil has a calming effect on smooth muscle contractions, helping to relax the digestive tract and alleviate spasms that can cause stomach cramps.
• Anti-inflammatory property: Fennel essential oil has anti-inflammatory compounds that may help reduce inflammation in the digestive tract, which can contribute to stomach cramp symptoms such as pain and discomfort.

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

• Roots: Fennel roots have anti-inflammatory properties that help soothe and calm digestive issues, making them effective in relieving stomach cramps.
• Seeds: Fennel seeds have natural carminative properties that can help alleviate bloating and discomfort associated with stomach cramps.

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

1. Harvest high-quality foeniculum vulgare leaves and stems in the early morning, selecting those with no signs of disease or pests.
2. Dry the harvested plant material using a food dehydrator at 35°c for 8 hours to reduce its moisture content below 10%.
3. Crush the dried foeniculum vulgare plant material into small pieces using a mortar and pestle to increase its surface area.
4. Steam distill the crushed plant material in a still apparatus with 5 liters of water at atmospheric pressure for 2 hours, collecting the essential oil that separates from the steam.
5. Filter the resulting essential oil through a coffee filter paper and store it in dark glass bottles with tight-fitting lids to preserve its quality.

5. Lavandula angustifolia

English lavender essential oils helps with stomach cramps because of its natural analgesic and anti-inflammatory properties.

When inhaled or applied topically, the oil's calming effects help to reduce muscle spasms and relax the digestive system. The gentle, soothing aroma also eases tension and anxiety, which can contribute to stomach cramps.

Additionally, lavender's antispasmodic properties specifically target smooth muscle contractions, providing natural relief from cramping discomfort.

The list below shows the primary active constituents in english lavender essential oils that aid with stomach cramps.

• Antispasmodic property: English Lavender essential oil helps to relieve stomach cramps by calming and relaxing the smooth muscles in the digestive tract, reducing muscle spasms and cramping.
• Anti-inflammatory property: English Lavender essential oil has anti-inflammatory compounds that help reduce inflammation in the digestive system, which can contribute to stomach cramps and discomfort.
• Anxiolytic property: English Lavender essential oil has a calming effect on the nervous system, helping to reduce stress and anxiety that can exacerbate stomach cramps and promote relaxation.

The list below shows the primary parts of english lavender used to make essential oils for stomach cramps.

• Roots: The roots of English Lavender contain a high concentration of sesquiterpenes, which have anti-inflammatory and antispasmodic properties that can help relieve stomach cramps.
• Buds: English Lavender buds are rich in flavonoids, which can help reduce inflammation and relax the muscles to alleviate stomach cramp symptoms.

The following recipe gives a procedure to make a basic english lavender for stomach cramps.

1. Harvest fresh lavandula angustifolia flowers, weighing approximately 50 grams for this recipe.
2. Dry the harvested flowers using a food dehydrator at 60°c for 12 hours or air drying for several weeks.
3. Transfer the dried flowers to a clean glass jar with a tight-fitting lid, storing it in a cool dark place for 24 hours.
4. Add 500 milliliters of carrier oil such as jojoba or sweet almond oil to the dried flowers and allow steeping for 12 days.
5. Filter the mixture through a cheesecloth or coffee filter into another clean glass jar, discarding the solids and storing the essential oil in an amber-colored bottle at room temperature.

6. Matricaria chamomilla

Chamomile essential oils helps with stomach cramps because of its calming and soothing properties.

The oil's anti-inflammatory compounds work to reduce muscle spasms and ease digestive discomfort, providing relief from crampy pain. Additionally, chamomile's gentle sedative effects can help calm the nerves, reducing tension and anxiety that may be contributing to stomach cramps.

When applied topically or inhaled, chamomile essential oil promotes relaxation and reduces inflammation, making it a natural remedy for alleviating stomach cramps and promoting digestive health.

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

• Anti-inflammatory properties: Chamomile essential oil's anti-inflammatory properties help reduce inflammation in the digestive tract, which can alleviate symptoms of stomach cramps and discomfort.
• Soothing and calming effects: The calming effects of chamomile essential oil can help relax the muscles in the stomach and intestines, reducing spasms and cramping associated with stomach pain.
• Antispasmodic properties: Chamomile essential oil's antispasmodic properties can help relieve muscle spasms in the digestive tract, which can contribute to stomach cramps and discomfort.

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

• Roots: Chamomile roots are used due to their high concentration of apigenin, an antioxidant that helps soothe and calm digestive issues, reducing stomach cramp severity.
• Flowers: Chamomile flowers are utilized for their anti-inflammatory properties, which help alleviate cramping symptoms by reducing inflammation in the digestive tract.

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

1. Harvest high-quality fresh matricaria chamomilla flowers at dawn when they are most potent.
2. Dry the harvested flowers in a warm dark place for 24 hours to prevent spoilage and contamination.
3. Steam distill 100 grams of dried matricaria chamomilla flowers with 500 milliliters of water for 30 minutes.
4. Collect and filter the resulting essential oil using a paper coffee filter or activated charcoal filter within an hour.
5. Store the final essential oil in a dark glass bottle with a tight-fitting lid at room temperature for up to 6 months.

7. Anethum graveolens

Dill essential oils helps with stomach cramps because it possesses natural anti-inflammatory and soothing properties that can effectively calm and alleviate digestive discomfort.

The oil's active compounds, such as carvone and limonene, work to reduce muscle spasms and inflammation in the digestive tract, providing quick relief from stomach cramps and related symptoms like bloating, gas, and abdominal pain.

By promoting healthy digestion and reducing irritability, dill essential oils can help restore a sense of well-being and alleviate discomfort associated with stomach cramps.

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

• Antispasmodic properties: Herbal dill essential oil helps to relax muscle spasms and reduce cramping, making it a natural remedy for alleviating stomach cramps.
• Anti-inflammatory properties: Dill oil's anti-inflammatory effects can help to reduce swelling and irritation in the digestive tract, which may contribute to stomach cramps.
• Carminative properties: As a natural carminative, herbal dill essential oil helps to eliminate gas and reduce bloating, which can often exacerbate stomach cramps.

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

• Roots: The roots of the dill plant are a rich source of essential oils that help soothe and relax the digestive system, providing relief from stomach cramps.
• Leaves: The leaves of the dill plant contain volatile compounds that have anti-inflammatory properties, which can help reduce inflammation in the gut and alleviate stomach cramp symptoms.

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

1. Harvest fresh dill leaves and flowers at dawn on a dry sunny day to ensure optimal oil quality.
2. Wash the harvested dill material gently with cool water to remove dirt and debris.
3. Steam distill the washed dill material in a stainless steel apparatus for 60-90 minutes.
4. Collect the resulting essential oil and transfer it to dark glass bottles with tight-fitting lids.
5. Store the essential oil in a cool dark place for at least 24 hours before using or storing.

8. Thymus vulgaris

Thyme essential oils helps with stomach cramps because of its natural anti-inflammatory and antispasmodic properties.

The oil has been used for centuries to soothe digestive issues, including cramping and bloating. When inhaled or applied topically, thyme essential oil can help relax the muscles in the abdomen, reducing spasms and discomfort.

Its calming effects can also ease anxiety and stress, common triggers of stomach cramps, promoting a sense of relaxation and relief.

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

• Antispasmodic properties: Thyme essential oil helps to relax the muscles in the stomach and intestines, reducing spasms and cramping.
• Carminative properties: Thyme essential oil has a gentle stimulating effect on the digestive system, helping to reduce flatulence and bloating that can contribute to stomach cramps.
• Antimicrobial properties: Thyme essential oil's antimicrobial properties help to prevent infection and inflammation in the gut, which can cause or exacerbate stomach cramps.

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

• Roots: Thyme roots have a rich concentration of compounds that help soothe and calm digestive issues, making them ideal for relieving stomach cramps.
• Barks: Thyme barks contain antioxidants and anti-inflammatory compounds that can help reduce inflammation in the stomach lining, providing relief from cramps and discomfort.

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

1. Harvest fresh thymus vulgaris leaves and flowers for infusion in sufficient quantity.
2. Combine harvested plant material with carrier oil such as sweet almond or grapeseed oil.
3. Allow the mixture to steep at room temperature for 14-18 hours under low light conditions.
4. Strain the mixture through cheesecloth or a coffee filter into a clean glass container.
5. Store the filtered essential oil in dark glass bottle with tight-fitting lid and label it.

9. Citrus x aurantium

Bitter orange essential oils helps with stomach cramps because of its natural anti-inflammatory properties.

The oil contains compounds like limonene and beta-pinene, which have been shown to reduce inflammation in the digestive tract and alleviate cramp-like symptoms. Additionally, bitter orange essential oil has a calming effect on the stomach muscles, helping to relax them and ease spasms.

As a result, it provides natural relief from stomach discomfort, bloating, and cramps, making it a popular remedy for digestive issues.

The list below shows the primary active constituents in bitter orange essential oils that aid with stomach cramps.

• Antispasmodic property: Bitter orange essential oil's antispasmodic property helps to relax and ease muscle contractions, reducing the severity of stomach cramps.
• Anti-inflammatory property: The anti-inflammatory properties of bitter orange essential oil can help reduce inflammation in the digestive tract, which can contribute to stomach cramps and other digestive issues.
• Gastroprotective property: Bitter orange essential oil's gastroprotective effects can help protect the stomach lining from damage caused by stress, anxiety, or spicy foods, reducing the occurrence of stomach cramps.

The list below shows the primary parts of bitter orange used to make essential oils for stomach cramps.

• Roots: The roots of the bitter orange plant contain sesquiterpenes and other compounds that help to soothe digestive issues and alleviate cramps.
• Barks: The barks of the bitter orange plant have been traditionally used to treat gastrointestinal disorders, including stomach cramps, due to their anti-inflammatory properties.

The following recipe gives a procedure to make a basic bitter orange for stomach cramps.

1. Harvest fresh bitter orange peel and dry it in shade for two days.
2. Blend dried peel with carrier oil like sweet almond or jojoba in ratio 1:3.
3. Steam distill the mixture at 100 degrees celsius for four hours using still pot.
4. Filter the essential oil through filter paper to remove impurities and sediment.
5. Bottle the pure citrus x aurantium essential oil and store it in cool dark place.

10. Melissa officinalis

Lemon balm essential oils helps with stomach cramps because of its natural soothing and calming properties.

The oil contains rosmarinic acid, which has anti-inflammatory and antispasmodic effects that help to relax the digestive tract muscles and reduce muscle spasms. This can provide fast and effective relief from stomach cramps caused by irritable bowel syndrome (IBS), menstrual cramps, or other gastrointestinal issues.

Additionally, lemon balm's calming properties may also help to reduce stress and anxiety, which are common triggers for stomach cramps.

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

• Antispasmodic: Herbal lemon balm essential oil has antispasmodic properties, which help to relax the smooth muscles in the digestive tract and reduce spasms that can cause stomach cramps.
• Anti-inflammatory: The anti-inflammatory properties of herbal lemon balm essential oil may help to reduce inflammation in the digestive tract that can contribute to stomach cramps and discomfort.
• Carminative: Herbal lemon balm essential oil has carminative properties, which help to relieve gas and bloating that can cause stomach cramps by promoting the release of trapped gas from the digestive system.

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

• Roots: Rich in volatile oils and flavonoids, roots have been traditionally used to ease digestive issues like stomach cramps due to their calming and anti-inflammatory properties.
• Leaves: Packed with menthol, eucalyptol, and citral, the leaves of lemon balm provide a soothing and cooling effect when extracted as an essential oil, helping to relieve stomach cramps.

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

1. Harvest melissa officinalis leaves and stems at dawn or dusk when oil content is highest, collecting about 20 grams of fresh material.
2. Wash the harvested material gently with cold running water to remove dirt and debris, pat dry with paper towels within 30 minutes.
3. Chop the cleaned material into small pieces and steam distill using a still with a yield of approximately 1 milliliter per gram of plant material for 90 minutes.
4. Combine the extracted essential oil with carrier oils such as jojoba or sweet almond oil in a ratio of 5-10% essential oil to 90-95% carrier oil, shaking well for 5 minutes.
5. Filter the mixture through a coffee filter or cheesecloth into dark glass bottles, storing them in a cool dry place away from direct sunlight for up to 6 months.

How to best treat stomach cramps with herbal essential oils?

The best way to treat stomach cramps with herbal essential oils is to dilute peppermint oil with a carrier oil like coconut or olive oil and apply it topically to the abdomen.

You can also inhale lavender oil to calm the digestive system and reduce spasms. Additionally, ginger oil taken internally as capsules or in tea form has anti-inflammatory properties that help alleviate cramps.

Always consult with a healthcare professional before using essential oils for medicinal purposes.

What ailments similar to stomach cramps are treated with herbal essential oils?

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

Certain oils like peppermint, ginger, and fennel have natural analgesic and anti-inflammatory properties that help soothe the digestive tract, reduce inflammation, and alleviate cramping sensations.

These oils can be used in aromatherapy blends or applied topically to provide relief from discomfort and promote a healthy gut.