The Gut: “Tract” To Wellness
By Team OneDrop
Have you ever heard the saying, “You are what you eat”? Well, it turns out that your gut agrees. That’s right, your belly is more than just a container for your favourite snacks; it’s actually a bustling metropolis of trillions of microorganisms that can make or break your health. So, if you want to be the CEO of your wellness, it’s time to start thinking about your gut as the boardroom and those little bacteria as your team of hardworking employees. Get ready to dive deep into the world of gut health, where the stakes are high, the competition is fierce, and the rewards are…well, let’s just say they’re pretty sweet (potentially in the form of better digestion, improved immunity, and increased energy).
Gut health has long been recognised as an essential aspect of overall well-being, with research showing that it is the cornerstone of good health. The gut microbiome, made up of trillions of bacteria and other microorganisms, plays a crucial role in digestion, nutrient absorption, immune function, and even mental health. With the rise of chronic diseases such as obesity, diabetes, and autoimmune disorders, there has been a growing interest in understanding the connection between gut health and overall health. As a result, many health professionals now consider gut health to be the foundation of wellness and actively seek ways to improve it. This article will explore the importance of gut health and provide tips for maintaining a healthy gut microbiome.
Take the “Essential” Route
Essential oils are concentrated plant extracts often used for their aromatic and therapeutic properties. While there is limited scientific research on the effects of essential oils on gut wellness, some studies suggest that certain essential oils may have beneficial effects on the digestive system.
(It’s important to note that essential oils should be used with caution and under the guidance of a qualified healthcare professional. Some essential oils can be toxic if ingested, and others may cause skin irritation or other adverse reactions. Additionally, essential oils should not be used as a replacement for medical treatment for digestive conditions or other health issues.)
Some essential oils have been traditionally used in aromatherapy for digestive support and may be helpful when used appropriately. These include:
- Peppermint oil: Peppermint oil is commonly used for digestive issues such as bloating, gas, and indigestion. It may help to relax the muscles of the digestive tract and improve the flow of bile, which can aid in the digestion of fats.
- Ginger oil: Ginger has been used for centuries as a natural remedy for nausea and vomiting. Ginger oil may help to reduce inflammation in the gut and promote healthy digestion.
- Fennel oil: Fennel has been used for centuries as a digestive aid. Fennel oil may help to relax the muscles of the digestive tract and relieve symptoms such as bloating and gas.
- Chamomile oil: Chamomile is known for its calming properties, and chamomile oil may help to soothe the gut and reduce inflammation. It may be helpful for symptoms such as cramping, bloating, and indigestion.
When and during what circumstances should you use essential oils?
Here’s when!
- Digestive issues: Essential oils like ginger, peppermint, and fennel can be used to ease digestive discomfort and support healthy digestion.
- Stress-related gut issues: Stress and anxiety can cause gut issues like irritable bowel syndrome (IBS). Essential oils like lavender, chamomile, and bergamot can help to reduce stress and promote relaxation, which may improve gut health.
- Infections: Some essential oils like oregano, thyme, and tea tree oil have antimicrobial properties that can help to fight off harmful bacteria and infections in the gut.
Topical Use of Essential Oils for Gut Wellness
Topical use of essential oils for gut wellness may be helpful in certain situations, but it’s important to use them safely and effectively. Here are some tips:
- Dilute the essential oil: Essential oils are highly concentrated and can be irritating to the skin when applied undiluted. Dilute the essential oil with a carrier oil like coconut oil or jojoba oil before applying it to the skin.
- Choose the right essential oil: Some essential oils may be more effective than others for gut wellness when applied topically. For example, ginger, peppermint, and fennel essential oils may be helpful for digestive discomfort, while lavender, chamomile, and bergamot essential oils may help to reduce stress and promote relaxation.
- Apply to the abdominal area: Apply the diluted essential oil to the abdominal area, where it can be absorbed into the skin and potentially provide gut wellness benefits.
- Use caution with sensitive skin: Essential oils can be irritating to sensitive skin, so it’s important to test a small area of skin before applying the diluted essential oil to a larger area.
Aromatherapy using essential oils can be a helpful complementary therapy for gut health, but it should never be used as a replacement for medical treatment or professional advice. A diffuser is a safe and effective way to use essential oils for aromatherapy. Add a few drops of the essential oil to the diffuser and let it diffuse into the air. You can also add the essential oil to a bowl of hot water and inhale the steam. Practice mindfulness alongside. Aromatherapy can be a form of mindfulness, which can help reduce stress and promote relaxation. Take a few deep breaths and focus on the scent of the essential oil to fully immerse yourself in the aromatherapy experience.
Moving further, here are a few helpful blends and recipes using essential oils for gut wellness:
- Digestive Blend: Mix 5 drops of ginger essential oil, 5 drops of peppermint essential oil, and 5 drops of fennel essential oil with a carrier oil like coconut oil. Apply the blend topically to the abdominal area to ease digestive discomfort.
- Calming Blend: Mix 5 drops of lavender essential oil, 5 drops of chamomile essential oil, and 5 drops of bergamot essential oil with a carrier oil. Diffuse or apply the blend topically to help reduce stress and promote relaxation.
- Immune-Supporting Blend: Mix 5 drops of oregano essential oil, 5 drops of thyme essential oil, and 5 drops of tea tree essential oil with a carrier oil. Apply the blend topically to the abdominal area to support immune function and fight off harmful bacteria.
- Soothing Blend: Mix 5 drops of Roman chamomile essential oil, 5 drops of frankincense essential oil, and 5 drops of ginger essential oil with a carrier oil. Apply the blend topically to the abdominal area to soothe digestive discomfort and promote relaxation.
- Detoxifying Blend: Mix 5 drops of lemon essential oil, 5 drops of grapefruit essential oil, and 5 drops of juniper berry essential oil with a carrier oil. Apply the blend topically to the abdominal area to support detoxification and promote a healthy gut.
One Drop Wellness has developed a unique method for extracting essential oils and converting them into easily usable and safe forms for consumption. By taking out extracts out of the essential oils, they have made it possible to consume them across multiple mediums, including beverages, edibles, and capsules, while ensuring their purity and potency. Their innovative approach has not only made essential oils more accessible but also made them safer for consumption. With this development, more people can now benefit from the therapeutic properties of essential oils without having to worry about the risks associated with traditional consumption methods. One Drop Wellness has undoubtedly made a significant contribution to the world of wellness, and its products are a testament to its commitment to delivering quality, safe, and effective products to its customers. All you need to do is pick up your phones, consult your dietician and check out our products. We are sure whatever product makes it to your cart will definitely make it to your door step too!