Diarrhea occurs when the body cannot absorb liquid from digested food, leading to loose or watery bowel movements. Diarrhea can lead to a risk of dehydration or malnutrition and may also be a sign of other larger medical issues. Fortunately, the Physician's Desktop Reference reports that most cases of diarrhea are benign and resolve in three to seven days, without treatment. The PDR also notes that aromatherapy may be useful for alleviating the condition.
Causes of Diarrhea
According to the Physician's Desktop Reference, short-term diarrhea may be caused by bacterial, viral or parasitic infection. Recurrent or chronic diarrhea may be caused by food allergies or side effects of medicines for blood pressure, chemotherapy, antibiotics or antacids, among other medications. The PDR notes that without adequate attention and care, acute diarrhea may become chronic. Therefore, one should consider lifestyle changes or factors leading to the incidence of diarrhea, in addition to treating the symptoms.
Essential Oil Selection
Many essential oils can help alleviate diarrhea, according to Jeanne Rose, President Emeritus of the National Association for Holistic Aromatherapy and herbalist for 40 years. They include: black pepper, which helps stimulate circulation; cinnamon, which is antibacterial; ginger, which helps prevent gas and promote appetite; grapefruit, which supports the lymph nodes and digestion; sweet marjoram, which supports the stomach and reduces anxiety; and rosemary, which can support both fatigue and digestion. For children, Rose recommends oils of orange peel or coriander--both of which are anti-inflammatory--or oils of cumin or blue chamomile, both of which are antispasmodic.
Mixing Essential Oil Blends
Essential oils may be irritating to the skin and should never be applied directly. Instead, you can create gentle but effective blends by mixing eight to ten drops of essential oil into 20 ml of a carrier oil, storing it in an airtight glass bottle. Use two drops of essential oil per 20 ml of carrier oil, if the mixture is to be used for children. Carrier oils may be simple but high-quality vegetable oils such as olive or grape seed. Warm the oil by rubbing it between your palms before applying it to the rest of your body, to make the application as comforting as possible.
Essential Oil Massage
Massaging oils over the colon is the most effective way of managing bowel problems, says Rose. She recommends massaging clockwise along the abdomen twice a day, to promote the movement of food through the intestine. Begin at the lower right corner of the abdomen, then circle above the belly button, down the descending colon, circling past the top of the public bone. Massage in the morning before eating, and before sleep, to promote a healthy bowel function as you rest.
Inhaling Essential Oils
Inhaling essential oils can provide subtle but long-term support for individuals who eschew direct contact (massage). Rose recommends lemon verbena oil, which can provide digestive relief and is soothing. Individuals may use an aromatherapy diffuser, add a few drops to a lit candle or add a few drops to a tissue, to be placed near the bedside. Smells used repeatedly may be particularly soothing, according to a recent study in the Journal of Developmental and Behavioral Pediatrics (2007). Researchers found that newborns exposed to familiar smells exhibited fewer signs of distress during routine procedures.
Precautions
Severe diarrhea with fever or other signs of dehydration, diarrhea with vomiting or bleeding, or diarrhea that lasts for more than three days may be signs of a serious medical condition and should be referred to a health-care provider. Individuals interested in aromatherapy should be aware of the possibility of individual oil sensitivities and oil-drug interactions and should seek qualified guidance.
