6 Essential Oils To Quickly Relieve Constipation + How To Use Them

When you can't go, you just don't feel like yourself. Over-the-counter laxatives may provide relief from constipation, but they can also cause side effects1, as reported by the Food and Drug Administration (FDA). That's why many people turn to natural options after missing a day or two of going number two. 

An increase in stress, a change in routine, dietary issues, or a sedentary lifestyle are all additional culprits of constipation, according to Elisa Song, M.D., a holistic pediatrician and pediatric functional medicine expert. "Physical activity, especially getting those legs pumping, is very important to get your bowels moving," she adds.

Fennel has a phytotherapic compound made up of essential oils that may help get things moving. A randomized clinical trial published in BMC Complementary and Alternative Medicine found that a tea made of the compound had a laxative effect. And a review published in Bio-Med Research International reports on fennel's antispasmodic properties for cramp relief.

Ginger helps relieve bloating and gas and increases gastrointestinal motility, according to a systematic review of clinical trials published in Food Science & Nutrition.

Peppermint, with its monoterpene compounds, has been shown to be helpful in patients with irritable bowel syndrome (IBS), according to a meta-analysis published in BMC Complementary and Alternative Medicine. Peppermint oil contains L-menthol, which can ease digestive tract cramping, the report says.

Chamomile has also shown promise in the relief of IBS symptoms like bloating and abdominal pain, according to research published in Der Pharma Chemica.

Rosemary essential oil aromatherapy combined with abdominal massage has been shown to relieve constipation in two studies, both published in the Journal of Korean Academy of Nursing2, one focusing on senior patients3 and another on college-age women2.

Lemon oil was combined with rosemary for one of the studies3 on constipation and abdominal massage.

A chamomile, fennel, and mint combination may help provide soothing relief for bloating, gas, and abdominal cramping, according to research in Molecular Medicine Reports4.

Before applying to a larger area, test the oil on a small patch of skin to make sure you do not have an allergic reaction.

Perry says a halt in bowel movements isn't considered constipation unless you've gone three days without relief. "If constipation persists," he says, "it sometimes can lead to an obstruction that requires mechanical assistance to remove," Perry cautions. So talk to your physician if symptoms don't improve. And if you have a known medical condition that can lead to constipation, make sure to check in with your doctor if you're having trouble going.

Bloating and the inability to go number two happens to all of us at one time or another. If you sense your bowels are getting sluggish, try an essential oil abdominal massage or another home remedy to help your body along.