Essential oils have been around for years, and recently they’ve received some special attention for their multiple types of healing properties, especially for digestion, anxiety, and many other issues more and more women are dealing with today. There are many, many essential oil varieties out there that are known to treat different issues. Some will help with headaches, others with insomnia and relaxation, others with skin healing, and many for the ever popular topic of… IBS.

It seems more cases of overall bad digestion and IBS are popping up everywhere. While we could try to pinpoint one reason, it’s likely due to several factors such as: we live in a more stressful world that negatively affects digestion due to how stress affects the nervous system, our foods are more processed and treated with chemicals and pesticides that alter our good gut bacteria, and because many of us grew up eating diets heavy in processed foods, which have resulted in less-than-optimal digestive systems we’re still trying to heal.

There’s never a quick fix, however, there are some natural healing remedies you can use to lower IBS symptoms and digestive complaints to help your body cope. Along with eating a healthy diet and using probiotics, essential oils are one of those natural options.

How to Use Them for Digestion:

You want to be sure these oils enter your system and aren’t just applied on your skin. You’ll need to use pure oils that are food grade so you know they’re safe. Just add a drop to some hot or warm water, which can help soothe the belly, calm the spirit and quieten an upset stomach. It might take some time to find which ones work best for you, but eventually, you’ll find your perfect match (or more).

Below are some of the most common used for IBS and digestion. Keep in mind, they can be pricey but normally last up to 4-6 months since you only need a very tiny drop per use. You can also try samples before you buy larger bottles. Buy from quality brands (optimally organic), and be sure they’re pure oils with no additives.

Please keep in mind this isn’t an extensive list, as there are many, many options out there. Still, these below are winners and sure-fire bets for helping out your tummy:

1. Thieves (or also called Four Knives or Germ Fighters)

Thieves essential oil or (also often called Four Knives) is one of the most treasured, most well-known essential oils. Possibly the most delightful blend of all, it contains clove, cinnamon, rosemary, lemon, and eucalyptus. These are some of the best anti-fungal, anti-bacterial and healing essential oils of all. Thieves is made of the highest antioxidant rich herbs and spices, specifically cloves that contains more antioxidant than any food! The ingredients in this blend also fight bad bacteria in the stomach, which can actually cause upset stomach and IBS symptoms. Additionally, lemon, cinnamon and cloves all help with the digestion of food and nausea. Many people even use Thieves to ward off the flu and cold due to its healing benefits and ingredients.

2. Peppermint

Peppermint essential oil is a classic remedy known for IBS and digestion. It calms the stomach, helps digest food, relieves indigestion, gas and bloating, and can help with acidic stomach. It’s also helpful for relieving anxiety and improving mental focus. See more on the benefits of peppermint oil for digestion here.

3. Ginger

Ginger essential oil is a bit stout, but it works. It’s strong but provides amazing relief for nausea, indigestion, gas and bloating quickly. It’s also said to help relieve headaches and mental stress. Ginger pairs well with lemon, so give it a try with some freshly squeezed lemon for more cleansing and healing benefits. If you don’t opt for the oil, at least opt for fresh ginger due to all its benefits.

4. Lavender

Though usually associated with sleep, this essential oil also helps digestion and constipation due to the way it reduces stress and aids in digestion. Your body has to be relaxed for healthy digestion and lavender can help you get there. Enjoy it when you’re stressed or before bed as a nighttime tea.

5. Oregano

Oregano oil is known to help relieve inflammation in the gut, especially those with IBS and leaky gut syndrome. Though you can take a supplement, the essential oil is a better and stronger option and will likely work much quicker. Oregano oil also stimulates a happy mood due to its aphrodiasiac and stress-relieving benefits.

Some other essential oils known to help with digestion, healing, IBS and stress include: tea tree oil, rosemary, patchouli, juniper berry, fennel, anise, tarragon, or blends that might include these ingredients.

For more tips on digestion, see Improve Your Digestive Health in Just a Week, 10 Foods to Regulate Your Digestion, and Simple, Healthy Foods That Are Easy to Digest.

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