5 essential oils that are home remedies for constipation

Occasional constipation does not have serious consequences, but it is very annoying and can cause, for example, hemorrhoids. Chronic constipation, on the other hand, is a clear sign of major problems in the digestive system, which can affect the composition of the intestinal microbiota and They can affect the whole body.

The microbiota is related, for example, with the absorption of nutrients, with inflammation and with immunity.

Natural constipation treatment with essential oils

Medicines should not be the first option. In the case of constipation, the priority is to resort to natural measures that attack the cause. People suffering from constipation should review their habits in relation to physical activity, hydration and fiber consumption in the diet.

Once habits have been revised, essential oils are an invaluable help. Selected essential oils can not only help end constipation, but also they also support the treatment of many other digestive problems, be it cramps, flatulence, stomach nerves, etc.

A very important benefit of aromatherapy for constipation is that it help you take time for yourself, to prepare and apply the oils in peace and quiet in a comfortable environment. Relaxation alone has healing potential that should not be underestimated.

Although essential oils are natural, they are highly concentrated plant extracts, so they should only be used diluted.

Dilute essential oils in a carrier oil such as coconut oil, almond oil, jojoba oil, or olive oil before applying to skin in the abdominal area. In general, Mix 2 to 5 drops of the essential oil with 1 teaspoon of the carrier oil.

Abdominal massage with essential oils

First step

put your right hand in the stomach area. Slide it down to about the belly button. Once the right hand is at the navel, slide the left hand from the stomach to the navel, then with the right hand again, and so on.Work slowly and smoothly. You will notice that great pressure is not required to create a pleasant sensation in the gastrointestinal area. Remember that you must relax the abdominal muscles and lie down very relaxed. Don’t forget to breathe evenly and deeply. After two minutes, go to the next step.

Second step

Now place your hands in such a way that your thumbs point towards your belly button and the free area between your hands resembles a triangle.Breathe very slowly three or four times. Try to breathe slowly enough that you can count to eight on the in breath and on the out breath.

Third step

Now start with your right hand and move it counterclockwise (from right to left) tracing a circle on your abdomen. The hand always remains in contact with the skin, it does not come off. The left hand remains still for the moment. When performing the movement you can apply minimal pressure if you don’t mind. After a minute move on to the next step.

Fourth step

Now the right hand remains still while the left draws small circles, but clockwise, for 1 minute.

Fifth step

Now let both hands rotate at the same time, the right counterclockwise and the left clockwise. It takes a bit of coordination training at first, but after a few seconds it will work out perfectly.

sixth step

Change hands position: Put your right hand above your belly button and your left hand below.Steps 3 to 5 are now repeated in this new position, 1 or 2 minutes each.Finally, lie down for another minute (or more, depending on your timing) and breathe in and out very slowly and deeply, as explained in step 2.Now get up and drink a glass of warm lemon water or an infusion.

1. Ginger essential oil

Ginger is a food spice, a remedy for nausea and stomach problems that, in essential oil form, is also used in aromatherapy.

Ginger essential oil (two drops) is put on a cloth soaked in hot water and placed on the stomach. Make sure the water temperature is not too high. Leave the cloth for a few minutes until it starts to cool down. Then massage the abdomen for 2-3 minutes in a clockwise direction.

2. Peppermint essential oil

Peppermint oil contains menthol, which is responsible for the cooling effect of this essential oil. Sensitive people do not tolerate menthol very well on the skin. Therefore, first test your tolerance on a small area (the back of the hand, for example). If redness or burning occurs, use another oil.

peppermint oil It has a relaxing and analgesic effect, both on the muscles in general and on those of the gastrointestinal tract.

If you have constipation or stomach problems, add two drops of peppermint oil to one teaspoon of warm carrier oil. This small amount of oil is used to massage the abdominal area.

Peppermint essential oil should never be used on babies and young children, as menthol could cause breathing difficulties.

3. Fennel essential oil

An article published in the magazine Biomed Research International claims that fennel can help with all digestive system ailments, including constipation.

Fennel essential oil it can also be used as an aid in an abdominal massage, but can also be inhaled. Two drops of fennel oil are added to a teaspoon of base oil and massaged as explained above. Start with small circles that gradually increase in size.

4. Lavender essential oil

Constipation is often the result of stress. Lavender essential oil is effective for relaxation and is also often used to promote sleep. If you have a room diffuser, you can put the lavender oil in at night and experience the anti-stress effects.

Lavender oil it is also used for flatulence and stomach pain. Simply add a drop or two of this oil to a teaspoon of carrier oil, apply to stomach, and massage.

5. Chamomile essential oil

Chamomile essential oil It can be used alone or mixed with lavender essential oil. The two oils not only relax and decongest the mind, but also the digestive system. They also improve intestinal peristalsis and relieve flatulence.

The two essential oils are mixed with a base oil (2 drops each for 1 teaspoon of base oil), They are applied to the stomach and ideally massaged three times a day.