The Ultimate Guide to Relieving Stomach Flu with Essential Oils
If you have ever suffered from stomach flu, you know how uncomfortable and debilitating it can be. The constant vomiting, diarrhea, and stomach cramps can leave you feeling exhausted and dehydrated. While there are various over-the-counter medications available, they often come with uncomfortable side effects. Fortunately, there are natural remedies you can use to alleviate the symptoms of stomach flu, such as essential oils.
In this article, we will provide you with a comprehensive guide on how to relieve stomach flu with essential oils. We will share with you the best essential oils to use, the proper way to use them, and other helpful tips. So, let’s get started!
1. Peppermint oil – The Magic Oil
Peppermint oil is one of the most versatile and popular essential oils in the world. It has been used for thousands of years to relieve various ailments, including stomach flu. Peppermint oil contains menthol, which has antispasmodic properties that help to relax the muscles in your digestive tract. This can help to alleviate stomach cramps and reduce nausea and vomiting.
To use peppermint oil, you can add a few drops to a carrier oil, such as coconut oil, and massage it onto your stomach. Alternatively, you can inhale peppermint oil by adding a few drops to a diffuser or breathing it in directly from the bottle. You can also add peppermint oil to a warm bath to relax your muscles and soothe your stomach.
2. Ginger oil – The Healer
Ginger oil is another essential oil that is known for its ability to soothe an upset stomach. It contains gingerol, which has anti-inflammatory properties that can help to reduce inflammation in your digestive tract and ease stomach cramps. Ginger oil also has a warming effect that can help to stimulate digestion and increase bowel movement.
You can use ginger oil by adding a few drops to a carrier oil and massaging it onto your stomach. Alternatively, you can inhale ginger oil by adding a few drops to a diffuser or breathing it in directly from the bottle. You can also add ginger oil to a warm bath to help relax your muscles.
3. Lemon oil – The Cleanser
Lemon oil is a powerful cleansing agent that can help to detoxify your body and relieve the symptoms of stomach flu. It contains limonene, which has anti-inflammatory properties that can help to reduce inflammation in your digestive tract and ease stomach cramps. Lemon oil also contains d-limonene, which can help to relieve constipation and improve bowel movement.
You can use lemon oil by adding a few drops to a glass of warm water and drinking it. Alternatively, you can add a few drops to a carrier oil and massage it onto your stomach. You can also inhale lemon oil by adding a few drops to a diffuser or breathing it in directly from the bottle.
4. Lavender oil – The Relaxer
Lavender oil is a popular essential oil that is known for its calming and relaxing properties. It can help to reduce stress and anxiety, which are common triggers for digestive issues. Lavender oil also contains linalool, which has anti-inflammatory properties that can help to reduce inflammation in your digestive tract.
You can use lavender oil by adding a few drops to a carrier oil and massaging it onto your stomach. Alternatively, you can inhale lavender oil by adding a few drops to a diffuser or breathing it in directly from the bottle. You can also add lavender oil to a warm bath to help relax your muscles and soothe your stomach.
5. Eucalyptus oil – The Comforter
Eucalyptus oil is another essential oil that can help to alleviate the symptoms of stomach flu. It contains eucalyptol, which has anti-inflammatory and analgesic properties that can help to reduce inflammation and relieve pain. Eucalyptus oil also has a cooling effect that can help to reduce fever and soothe a sore throat.
You can use eucalyptus oil by adding a few drops to a carrier oil and massaging it onto your stomach. Alternatively, you can inhale eucalyptus oil by adding a few drops to a diffuser or breathing it in directly from the bottle. You can also add eucalyptus oil to a warm bath to help relax your muscles and relieve pain.
6. Bergamot oil – The Uplifter
Bergamot oil is a citrus essential oil that is known for its uplifting and energizing properties. It can help to reduce stress and anxiety, which can trigger digestive issues. Bergamot oil also contains limonene, which has anti-inflammatory properties that can help to reduce inflammation in your digestive tract.
You can use bergamot oil by adding a few drops to a carrier oil and massaging it onto your stomach. Alternatively, you can inhale bergamot oil by adding a few drops to a diffuser or breathing it in directly from the bottle. You can also add bergamot oil to a warm bath to help relax your muscles and soothe your stomach.
7. Chamomile oil – The Soother
Chamomile oil is a popular essential oil that is known for its calming and soothing properties. It can help to reduce stress and anxiety, which can trigger digestive issues. Chamomile oil also contains bisabolol, which has anti-inflammatory properties that can help to reduce inflammation in your digestive tract.
You can use chamomile oil by adding a few drops to a carrier oil and massaging it onto your stomach. Alternatively, you can inhale chamomile oil by adding a few drops to a diffuser or breathing it in directly from the bottle. You can also add chamomile oil to a warm bath to help relax your muscles and soothe your stomach.
8. Fennel oil – The Digestive Aid
Fennel oil is another essential oil that is known for its ability to aid digestion. It contains anethole, which has antispasmodic properties that can help to relax the muscles in your digestive tract and reduce cramping. Fennel oil also has a carminative effect, which can help to reduce gas and bloating.
You can use fennel oil by adding a few drops to a carrier oil and massaging it onto your stomach. Alternatively, you can inhale fennel oil by adding a few drops to a diffuser or breathing it in directly from the bottle. You can also add fennel oil to a warm bath to help relax your muscles and aid digestion.
9. Clary Sage oil – The Hormone Regulator
Clary Sage oil is a popular essential oil that is known for its ability to regulate hormones. Hormonal imbalances can often trigger digestive issues, such as stomach cramps, bloating, and constipation. Clary Sage oil can help to regulate the production of hormones and reduce the symptoms of stomach flu.
You can use Clary Sage oil by adding a few drops to a carrier oil and massaging it onto your stomach. Alternatively, you can inhale Clary Sage oil by adding a few drops to a diffuser or breathing it in directly from the bottle. You can also add Clary Sage oil to a warm bath to help relax your muscles and regulate hormones.
10. Frankincense oil – The King of Oils
Frankincense oil is a powerful essential oil that has been used for thousands of years to promote overall health and wellness. It contains boswellic acid, which has anti-inflammatory properties that can help to reduce inflammation in your digestive tract. Frankincense oil also has a soothing effect that can help to reduce stress and anxiety, which are common triggers for digestive issues.
You can use Frankincense oil by adding a few drops to a carrier oil and massaging it onto your stomach. Alternatively, you can inhale Frankincense oil by adding a few drops to a diffuser or breathing it in directly from the bottle. You can also add Frankincense oil to a warm bath to help relax your muscles and promote overall health and wellness.
11. Marjoram oil – The Anti-Spasm
Marjoram oil is an essential oil that is known for its anti-spasmodic properties. It can help to relax the muscles in your digestive tract and reduce stomach cramps. Marjoram oil also has a calming effect that can help to reduce stress and anxiety, which can trigger digestive issues.
You can use Marjoram oil by adding a few drops to a carrier oil and massaging it onto your stomach. Alternatively, you can inhale Marjoram oil by adding a few drops to a diffuser or breathing it in directly from the bottle. You can also add Marjoram oil to a warm bath to help relax your muscles and reduce stomach cramps.
12. Cinnamon oil – The Anti-fungal
Cinnamon oil is an essential oil that is known for its anti-fungal properties. It can help to kill harmful bacteria and fungi that can cause digestive issues. Cinnamon oil also has an anti-inflammatory effect that can help to reduce inflammation in your digestive tract.
You can use Cinnamon oil by adding a few drops to a carrier oil and massaging it onto your stomach. Alternatively, you can inhale Cinnamon oil by adding a few drops to a diffuser or breathing it in directly from the bottle. You can also add Cinnamon oil to a warm bath to help relax your muscles and reduce inflammation.
13. Thyme oil – The Antimicrobial
Thyme oil is an essential oil that is known for its antimicrobial properties. It can help to kill harmful bacteria and viruses that can cause digestive issues. Thyme oil also has an anti-inflammatory effect that can help to reduce inflammation in your digestive tract.
You can use Thyme oil by adding a few drops to a carrier oil and massaging it onto your stomach. Alternatively, you can inhale Thyme oil by adding a few drops to a diffuser or breathing it in directly from the bottle. You can also add Thyme oil to a warm bath to help relax your muscles and reduce inflammation.
14. Rosemary oil – The Memory Enhancer
Rosemary oil is an essential oil that is known for its ability to enhance memory and concentration. It can also help to reduce stress and anxiety, which can trigger digestive issues. Rosemary oil also has an anti-inflammatory effect that can help to reduce inflammation in your digestive tract.
You can use Rosemary oil by adding a few drops to a carrier oil and massaging it onto your stomach. Alternatively, you can inhale Rosemary oil by adding a few drops to a diffuser or breathing it in directly from the bottle. You can also add Rosemary oil to a warm bath to help relax your muscles and promote memory and concentration.
15. Cypress oil – The Decongestant
Cypress oil is an essential oil that is known for its ability to decongest the respiratory system. It can also help to reduce stress and anxiety, which can trigger digestive issues. Cypress oil also has an anti-inflammatory effect that can help to reduce inflammation in your digestive tract.
You can use Cypress oil by adding a few drops to a carrier oil and massaging it onto your stomach. Alternatively, you can inhale Cypress oil by adding a few drops to a diffuser or breathing it in directly from the bottle. You can also add Cypress oil to a warm bath to help relax your muscles and decongest the respiratory system.
16. Lemongrass oil – The Energizer
Lemongrass oil is an essential oil that is known for its energizing and uplifting properties. It can also help to reduce stress and anxiety, which can trigger digestive issues. Lemongrass oil also has an anti-inflammatory effect that can help to reduce inflammation in your digestive tract.
You can use Lemongrass oil by adding a few drops to a carrier oil and massaging it onto your stomach. Alternatively, you can inhale Lemongrass oil by adding a few drops to a diffuser or breathing it in directly from the bottle. You can also add Lemongrass oil to a warm bath to help relax your muscles and promote energy and wellbeing.
17. Patchouli oil – The Grounding Oil
Patchouli oil is an essential oil that is known for its grounding and calming properties. It can also help to reduce stress and anxiety, which can trigger digestive issues. Patchouli oil also has an anti-inflammatory effect that can help to reduce inflammation in your digestive tract.
You can use Patchouli oil by adding a few drops to a carrier oil and massaging it onto your stomach. Alternatively, you can inhale Patchouli oil by adding a few drops to a diffuser or breathing it in directly from the bottle. You can also add Patchouli oil to a warm bath to help relax your muscles and promote grounding and wellbeing.
18. Sandalwood oil – The Relaxing Oil
Sandalwood oil is an essential oil that is known for its relaxing and soothing properties. It can also help to reduce stress and anxiety, which can trigger digestive issues. Sandalwood oil also has an anti-inflammatory effect that can help to reduce inflammation in your digestive tract.
You can use Sandalwood oil by adding a few drops to a carrier oil and massaging it onto your stomach. Alternatively, you can inhale Sandalwood oil by adding a few drops to a diffuser or breathing it in directly from the bottle. You can also add Sandalwood oil to a warm bath to help relax your muscles and promote relaxation and wellbeing.
19. Vetiver oil – The Calming Oil
Vetiver oil is an essential oil that is known for its calming and grounding properties. It can also help to reduce stress and anxiety, which can trigger digestive issues. Vetiver oil also has an anti-inflammatory effect that can help to reduce inflammation in your digestive tract.
You can use Vetiver oil by adding a few drops to a carrier oil and massaging it onto your stomach. Alternatively, you can inhale Vetiver oil by adding a few drops to a diffuser or breathing it in directly from the bottle. You can also add Vetiver oil to a warm bath to help relax your muscles and promote calmness and wellbeing.
20. Ylang Ylang oil – The Mood Enhancer
Ylang Ylang oil is an essential oil that is known for its ability to enhance mood and promote relaxation. It can also help to reduce stress and anxiety, which can trigger digestive issues. Ylang Ylang oil also has an anti-inflammatory effect that can help to reduce inflammation in your digestive tract.
You can use Ylang Ylang oil by adding a few drops to a carrier oil and massaging it onto your stomach. Alternatively, you can inhale Ylang Ylang oil by adding a few drops to a diffuser or breathing it in directly from the bottle. You can also add Ylang Ylang oil to a warm bath to help relax your muscles and promote mood and wellbeing.
Stomach Flu Essential Oils Table
| Essential Oil | Properties | How to Use |
| Peppermint oil | Antispasmodic | Add a few drops to a carrier oil and massage onto your stomach. |
| Ginger oil | Anti-inflammatory | Add a few drops to a carrier oil and massage onto your stomach. |
| Lemon oil | Cleansing | Add a few drops to a glass of warm water and drink. |
| Lavender oil | Relaxing | Add a few drops to a carrier oil and massage onto your stomach. |
| Eucalyptus oil | Comforting | Add a few drops to a carrier oil and massage onto your stomach. |
| Bergamot oil | Uplifting | Add a few drops to a carrier oil and massage onto your stomach. |
| Chamomile oil | Soothing | Add a few drops to a carrier oil and massage onto your stomach. |
| Fennel oil | Digestive aid | Add a few drops to a carrier oil and massage onto your stomach. |
| Clary Sage oil | Hormone regulator | Add a few drops to a carrier oil and massage onto your stomach. |
| Frankincense oil | Anti-inflammatory | Add a few drops to a carrier oil and massage onto your stomach. |
| Marjoram oil | Anti-spasmodic | Add a few drops to a carrier oil and massage onto your stomach. |
| Cinnamon oil | Anti-fungal | Add a few drops to a carrier oil and massage onto your stomach. |
| Thyme oil | Antimicrobial | Add a few drops to a carrier oil and massage onto your stomach. |
| Rosemary oil | Memory enhancer | Add a few drops to a carrier oil and massage onto your stomach. |
| Cypress oil | Decongestant | Add a few drops to a carrier oil and massage onto your stomach. |
| Lemongrass oil | Energizing | Add a few drops to a carrier oil and massage onto your stomach. |
| Patchouli oil | Grounding | Add a few drops to a carrier oil and massage onto your stomach. |
| Sandalwood oil | Relaxing | Add a few drops to a carrier oil and massage onto your stomach. |
| Vetiver oil | Calming | Add a few drops to a carrier oil and massage onto your stomach. |
| Ylang Ylang oil | Mood enhancer | Add a few drops to a carrier oil and massage onto your stomach. |
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
Q: What is stomach flu?
A: Stomach flu, also known as gastroenteritis, is an illness that affects the digestive system. It is caused by a virus, bacteria, or parasite and can lead to symptoms such as diarrhea, vomiting, stomach cramps, and dehydration.
Q: How do essential oils work for stomach flu?
A: Essential oils contain chemicals that have therapeutic properties. When inhaled or applied topically, the chemicals in essential oils can interact with your body’s chemistry and produce a therapeutic effect. For example, peppermint oil contains menthol, which has antispasmodic properties that can help to relax the muscles in your digestive tract and reduce stomach cramps.
Q: Are essential oils safe to use for stomach flu?
A: Essential oils are generally safe if used properly. However, they should always be diluted in a carrier oil before being applied topically to avoid skin irritation. Some essential oils, such as peppermint oil