Essential Oils Benefits for Constipation

Constipation is that one sure thing we have all experienced once in our lives. It is uncomfortable and seriously makes one feel sluggish and irritated. Sometimes, no matter how much water you drink or the fiber you add to your diet, it would seem like your digestive system needs that little extra nudge. That’s where I find, essential oils come into play. If you have never thought about using essential oils for constipation, then this is a topic worth reading. Let me share how they work and what benefits you could experience.

I initially heard of using essential oils to aid in constipation with my sceptic hat firmly in place. Those things were for relaxation, headaches, or maybe a better night’s sleep-but digestion? The new one for me. However, after a little research and trying a few myself, I discovered that certain essential oils might just kick-start your digestive system in some ways that help ease constipation. They work naturally; they control the body in the proper direction easily. 

They are concentrated extracts from plants and vary in their health benefits. The nice things about these essential oils are in their holistic approach to health, whether by application topically or by inhalation, even diluted in a carrier oil massaged directly onto the skin. These oils can be used to help with constipation by relaxing muscles, reducing inflammation, and stimulating bowel movements. When I use them, I feel as though I’m taking care of my body in a soft and gentle manner. 

Not all essential oils are created equal when it comes to helping with constipation. Here are a few that I’ve found to be particularly effective. 

1. Peppermint Oil 

Oh, peppermint oil-the classic. This oil contains menthol, a compound known for its cooling effect. However, aside from freshening up your breath, every time I use peppermint oil, its aroma somehow sends quick signals to the stomach muscles, commanding them to relax and release the pent-up tension stored in them. Making this happen automatically helps the digestive tract work better, and maybe reduce constipation in the process. I find it really is just helpful if it’s in a diffuser or put on the abdomen with a carrier oil to help those uncomfortable cramps that sometimes accompany constipation. 

2. Ginger Oil 

Another go-to essential oil for constipation is ginger essential oil. While I’d known that ginger was great for nausea, I didn’t realize it was also commonly used to help with such digestive issues as constipation. This warming and anti-inflammatory action of ginger stirs your digestive system into action. I employ a little of this ginger oil, mixed with a carrier oil, to rub onto my lower abdomen when I feel extraordinarily bloated or back up. The warmth within the ginger oil likes to promote movement and is soothing on the skin. 

3. Fennel oil 

Fennel oil has been a favorite for digestive health for centuries. It truly is as if I think I go to the root of nature when I use it. Fennel oil works well with constipation; it sort of kicks the bowels into action in the most gentle way. Another thing it does is reduce bloating, which, actually, is part of my constipation. Its anti-inflammatory properties reduce discomfort and relax the stomach well enough for things to move their way through with ease. 

4. Lemon Oil 

The refreshing and uplifting aroma of lemon oil also has some considerable benefits for digestion. I find that the lemon oil seems to stimulate my digestive system, combined with enzymes and other digestive juices like bile, that are so vital in breaking down food. When taken in the morning, this helps me get a burst of energy while quickly and gently waking up my digestive system. Adding just a couple of drops to a diffuser or mixing with a carrier oil for an abdominal massage will do wonders. 

Essential oils that target constipation are relatively standard in their mode of application. The most common modes of application include inhalation and topical applications. I prefer topical use because, to me, it can reach the main issue much better. 

I always tend to mix a few drops of my favourite essential oil, normally peppermint or ginger, with some carrier oil, like coconut or almond oil. Then, I directly massage it circularly on the abdomen. Not only does this help the oils set in deeper, but it’s soothing, too; it feels like sending a feeling to my body, like, “Okay, time to get things running. 

Other options are to add a few drops of essential oil to a warm bath. I soak for 20 minutes, and this feels very relaxing with the skin taking in the oils and the steam helping to inhale them. This has been an excellent way for me when I have been feeling particularly tense or uncomfortable. Like, it is a two-in-one thing: it relaxes me; it supports digestion. 

Of course, as with everything natural, the important thing to remember is that essential oils can be potent. I have learned that one should never apply them to the skin without diluting the extract first in a so-called ‘carrier oil’, or skin irritation will probably result. Not all shipments of essential oils are safe for internal use, either, so unless you’re working with a doctor or health care professional who advises alternative use, stick with topical or aromatic uses. 

Third party intervention may be necessary in case one is pregnant, breastfeeding, or with health conditions. Essentially, what may work for one person might not work for another; it is always good to take some caution and listen to your body. I have tried the essential oils as somewhat mild and effective options, but I nonetheless did manage to be able to use them well. 

I’d be lying if I said I thought essential oils would make as much of a difference as they have; initially, I just used them to help alleviate tension and stress. However, the more I experimented, the more I found that this accommodated my digestion, too. I’ve felt backed up for days on one or more occasions, and I didn’t think anything was working. That is when I turned to essential oils, and I really felt the difference. It is not an overnight fix, but after a day or so using the oils, I could just feel my body relaxing, and my digestion almost started to get back on track. 

I like even better that these oils work in conjunction with other changes I may want to make, such as increasing my water intake or consumption of fibber. It seems so much more a natural way, and less invasive, than perhaps some of the over-the-counter remedies out there that can be very harsh on my body. I like knowing I am supporting my body in a gentle manner, rather than having to resort to pills or chemical laxatives. 

Constipation definitely puts a kink in your day, leaving you a bit sluggish and uncomfortable. The good news is vicinity to essential oils that can naturally help stir the digestive process to a great working condition. Whether it is peppermint, ginger, fennel, or lemon, you will surely find the one that works best for you. 

I have found that aromatherapy for constipation not only helps but also brings in a tad of calm and relaxation to the process. So, the next time you feel a bit backed up, you might want to reach for your favourite essential oil and give it a try. 

And if you ever need a soothing massage to enhance what the essential oils can do, don’t forget to check out Step Above Massage.