Constipation is an uncomfortable and unwelcome issue with the digestive system that is a common problem for many people. There are plenty of over-the-counter medicines available to help, but if you were looking for a more natural remedy, certain essential oils can be the perfect solution to help relieve constipation.
What causes constipation?
Let’s quickly look into what causes constipation before we explore how essential oils can help.
Constipation is caused by food and other waste moving too slowly through the digestive tract. Having a diet that is low in fibre is one of the main reasons constipation occurs, but there are lots of other reasons why it might happen. Here are a few of them:
- Anxiety
- Dehydration
- Lack of exercise
- Certain types of medication
Understanding what causes constipation will help to make you more aware of how to stop it before it even begins.
How can essential oils help with constipation?
Essential oils might not sound like a go-to solution, but they are a perfect natural remedy to help treat constipation. Some essential oils can help to relax the body or encourage muscle contractions which might make it easier for the digestive system to function properly.
How to use essential oils for constipation
Essential oils can be used in many ways including in a diffuser, an inhaler or applied directly onto the skin.
For constipation relief and other abdominal issues, we suggest applying essential oils directly massaged onto the abdominal area. You could add a few drops of your chosen essential oil to a carrier oil, such as coconut oil or argan oil. The combination of the essential oil and a relaxing abdominal massage is a perfect combination to help relieve constipation.
5 Essential oils for constipation
Here are the top 5 essential oils which you can use to help ease the uncomfortable feeling constipation can bring:
Peppermint Essential oil
Peppermint oil is one of the most effective essential oils used for digestive issues. It has anti-inflammatory properties that can help to relax the digestive tract to help with bowel movements. Peppermint oil can help constipation for those that suffer from irritable bowel syndrome too.
Ginger Essential Oil
Ginger oil can act as a digestive stimulant to help promote bowel movements. It also contains anti-inflammatory properties and can help with nausea and indigestion.
Rosemary Essential Oil
Rosemary oil, like peppermint oil, is a great essential oil to help relax the muscles. Relaxed muscles in the abdominal area can move things along within the digestive tract.
Fennel Essential Oil
Fennel oil can help soothe the digestive tract and intestines. Fennel oil can also help with other digestive issues such as flatulence, diarrhoea, and stomach aches.
Lemon Essential Oil
Lemon oil contains strong antioxidants that can help improve digestion and can also help reduce inflammation. Lemon oil is also a good essential oil to use in a diffuser to help with constipation.
Conclusion
Essential oils are great for treating constipation and are an effective natural remedy compared with other medicines. More chronic constipation might need a stronger treatment, such as some over the counter medicines or a visit to your GP.
If you have an underlining health issue, you should discuss natural home remedies with your doctor to ensure the treatment would be suitable for you and your issue.
