These Essential Oils for Diarrhea work wonders and will help ease the belly pain in no time! Plus, they’re a great natural remedy.
Diarrhea is a common gastrointestinal condition where you get loose, watery stools and an increased frequency of bowel movements. It can be caused by viral or bacterial infections, food poisoning, or digestive disorders. While simple treatments like over-the-counter medications and hydration work, many people who prefer natural and organic remedies use essential oils for diarrhea. You should try it too–here’s everything you need to know.
Best Essential Oils for Diarrhea
1. Peppermint Oil
Derived from the peppermint plant, the oil contains menthol–which leaves a distinctive cooling sensation and a soothing effect on the digestive system.
The oil is known for relaxing gastrointestinal muscles and reducing spasms. Apart from its anti-diarrheal properties, peppermint oil is also known for its antimicrobial qualities, so it’s effective against diarrhea-causing pathogens. You can also use it on hair and skin.
2. Ginger Oil
One of the most effective essential oils for stomach aches and diarrhea is ginger oil. It contains potent anti-inflammatory and antimicrobial properties, which can help soothe inflamed intestines and combat diarrhea-causing pathogens.
Ginger oil’s main active component is gingerol, which contributes to its anti-diarrheal effects by reducing intestinal spasms and improving digestion. Moreover, ginger oil is also valued for its warming and refreshing properties. It can be quite strong, so do a patch test on your skin before using it to check for sensitivity. Here are different ways to use it at home.
3. Fennel Oil
This oil comes from the seeds of the fennel plant and is known to possess carminative properties that relieve digestive discomfort, mainly diarrhea. Its high concentration of anethole is another plus that helps regulate bowel movements.
Fennel oil’s natural soothing effects on the digestive system make it beneficial for alleviating diarrhea. Pregnant women or individuals with estrogen-related conditions should use other essential oils as it has been linked to preterm birth.
4. Chamomile Oil
It contains compounds such as bisabolol and chamazulene that possess anti-inflammatory and antispasmodic effects. Chamomile oil can help relax the gastrointestinal tract muscles, reduce inflammation, and alleviate abdominal pain often associated with diarrhea.
However, people with ragweed allergies should exercise caution when using chamomile oil–they may experience allergic reactions.
5. Lemon Oil
The high limonene content in this oil exhibits antimicrobial activity that can help fight bacteria and other pathogens that cause diarrhea. Lemon oil also has astringent properties that help reduce excess fluid secretion in the intestines and promote firmer stools.
Additionally, lemon oil is valued for its refreshing and uplifting aroma, which can help invigorate the senses and promote a positive mood.
6. Lavender Oil
Lavender oil offers many benefits and is a great anti-diarrhea essential oil. This oil contains linalool, which is known for its calming and antispasmodic properties that can help reduce intestinal spasms and soothe the digestive tract.
While it’s not a cure-all for diarrhea, many people find it to be effective in relieving symptoms like bloating, gas, and abdominal pain. Here are more health benefits of lavender essential oil.
7. Cinnamon Oil
Derived from the bark or leaves of the cinnamon tree, it is known for its warming and aromatic qualities. It contains cinnamaldehyde–a compound that exhibits antimicrobial and anti-inflammatory properties, making it an effective oil for managing diarrhea.
Cinnamon oil helps inhibit the growth of bacteria and parasites that cause gastrointestinal issues and provides relief from diarrhea symptoms.
8. Tea Tree Oil
Tea tree oil is a natural product extracted from the leaves of the Melaleuca alternifolia tree. It is renowned for its potent antimicrobial and anti-inflammatory properties. This essential tree oil also contains terpinen-4-ol, which helps fight off pathogens and reduce inflammation in the gut. You can also use it for your beard!
9. Eucalyptus Oil
Eucalyptus essential oil is a natural substance extracted from the leaves of eucalyptus trees. It contains compounds called terpenes that have antibacterial and anti-inflammatory properties. Eucalyptus oil is often used for respiratory issues like colds and coughs, but it has also been studied for its benefits in treating diarrhea.
This is thought to be due to its antibacterial properties, which can help kill harmful bacteria that may be causing the diarrhea. However, you should exercise caution when using eucalyptus oil, as high concentrations can be toxic. Make sure you dilute it properly before using it. Here’s how to DIY your own eucalyptus oil.
10. Thyme Oil
Thyme essential oil is a natural remedy that many people use to help alleviate diarrhea. It contains thymol and carvacrol, which have antimicrobial properties. These compounds can help kill harmful bacteria that may be causing your diarrhea.
Avoid prolonged or excessive use of thyme oil, as it can cause skin sensitization in some people.
How to Use Essential Oil For Diarrhea
Essential oils can be a natural and effective way to manage diarrhea. To use them safely and effectively, here’s what to do.
First, select an appropriate essential oil from the list above. Once you’ve chosen your oil, you need to dilute it with a carrier oil like coconut or almond oil. This is an important step to prevent skin irritation and ensure safe application. Apply a few drops of the diluted oil to your abdomen and gently massage it in a clockwise direction. Doing this will help soothe the digestive system and reduce discomfort.
If you don’t want to do this, the other method is inhalation. Add a few drops of the oil to a diffuser or tissue and inhale deeply. It can help relax the digestive muscles and alleviate inflammation. Simple, right?
You should remember that essential oils should not be ingested unless under the guidance of a qualified professional. If your symptoms persist or worsen, consult with a healthcare provider.
Precautions
Essential oils can be a complementary and safe therapy for diarrhea, but you should always consult with a healthcare professional for proper diagnosis and treatment, especially if symptoms persist or worsen. Do keep the following things in mind.
- Always dilute essential oils with a carrier oil before applying them to the skin.
- If you are pregnant or breastfeeding, you should consult with a healthcare provider before using essential oils.
- People with allergies should also be cautious when using essential oils, as they may trigger allergic reactions.
That’s it! Time to try it out for yourself. Do let us know how it goes for you in the comments below.