Five essential oil blends that will combat digestive disorders

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In the United States, 60-70 million people are diagnosed with a digestive disorder that results in approximately 21.7 million hospitalizations yearly.(1)

Digestive disorders are often connected to the microbiome in the gut.  Often the microbiome is impacted by the use of antibiotics.  If it’s not antibiotics, we are exposed to commercial disinfectants or hand sanitizes that are designed to kill 99.9 percent of bacteria. (2)

Sixty-seventy million people in the U.S. are diagnosed with digestive disorders

The gut is also known as “the second brain.”  The gut utilizes bacteria in order to function properly and communicate with the rest of our body.  The brain and gut are connected by a network of neurons, chemicals and hormones that provide feedback in about our hunger and stress.  Many people experience a sinking feeling in their stomach during moments of stress, this is the brain communicating stress with the gut. (3)

The human body relies on a healthy balance of bacteria for digestion and immune responses

The human body relies on a healthy microbiome for proper digestion and immune responses.  Healthy eating, limiting antibiotic use, and probiotics can all be helpful to restoring and preserving a healthy microbiome.  Outside of these options, some people are turning toward essential oils to help restore their gut and improve their health.  If you are seeking natural ways to manage digestive disorders, consider the following essential oil blends. (2)

Five essential oil blends that will improve digestion

  1. Thyme and Rose: When an imbalance of gut bacteria because prominent, it can result in serious healthy concerns.  The unhealthy bacteria must be controlled at the same time as the beneficial bacteria is not destroyed.  Thyme and rose oil contain thymol and geraniol that can have a gentle effect on the restoring proper balance of bacteria.
  2. Cardamom and Clove:  Cardamom is part of the ginger family and provides protective digestive benefits with anti-inflammatory and antispasmodic effects.  Clove oil is antimicrobial and effective in treating Candida.
  3. Peppermint and Ginger: Together these two oils can help fight that nauseous feeling.  Peppermint oil has also been found to be effective for irritable bowl syndrome and ginger oil is protective against ulcers.
  4. Tea Tree and Oregano:  Tea tree and oregano oils are an antimicrobial powerhouse blend.  Utilizing these oils for DIY cleaners can help fight harmful microbes while leaving your gut health intact.
  5. Fennel and Tarragon:  Fennel and tarragon are considered to be a digestive stimulants.  They share soothing, anti-spasmodic effects.  Due to the estragole found in these plants, it is important to limit topical use and avoid internal use, as estragole is toxic when taken internally.  This oil blend should be reserved for inhalation. (2)

If you are one of the millions of people suffering from digestive distress, consider options from diet to oils in order to help your body reestablish a healthy gut.

Sources included:

(1) http://www.niddk.nih.gov/health-information/health-statistics/Pages/digestive-diseases-statistics-for-the-united-states.aspx

(2) https://thetruthaboutcancer.com/five-essential-oil-pairs-gut-health/

(3)http://www.scientificamerican.com/article/gut-feelings-the-second-brain-in-our-gastrointestinal-systems-excerpt/

Lynn Griffith
Lynn is a licensed therapist who enjoys cooking, creativity and enjoys helping other's learn how to care for their minds and bodies through healthy eating.  Lynn has wrote for The Raw Food World News and is currently in the process of building her own website focused on managing mental health through nutrition and wellness.