5 Beneficial Essential Oils That can Treat Diverticulitis

Updated on March 13th, 2020
Essential oils are hyper-concentrated plant/flower extracts from medicinal plants, these have been known to be used for centuries, hence their efficacy in treating diverticulitis is better compared to conventional medicine. Below is the curated list of the most beneficial essential oils for diverticulitis

Diverticulitis is a condition in which these pouches get inflamed or infected. This can lead to many problems where the normal functions of your intestine are disrupted causing pain and discomfort. Relief and prevention from Diverticulitis can be gained by using natural remedies that cure and provide comfort. So, fight effectively against it by trying Essential Oils for Diverticulitis.

Causes

No single factor leads to this problem alone. The root cause mainly remains the blocking of the openings of diverticula by the fecal matter which leads to inflammation and infection. The reasons behind this blockage vary from person to person.

It may be caused due to a low fiber diet, lack of physical exercise, smoking, certain medications (NSAIDs), aspirin, opiates and steroids, lack of vitamin D or due to age factors.

Symptoms

  • Severe abdominal pain
  • Nausea
  • Bright red blood in the stool
  • Vomiting
  • Fever
  • Cramps on the left side of the abdomen
  • Constipation
  • Diarrhea
  • Increased urge to urinate, urinating more often and burning sensation while urinating
  • Bloating

Essential oils for Diverticulitis

Essential oils are hyper-concentrated plant/flower extracts from medicinal plants, these have been known to be used for centuries, hence their efficacy in treating diverticulitis is better compared to conventional medicine. Below is the curated list of the most beneficial essential oils for diverticulitis.

1. Peppermint essential oil

Pepperment oil-min
Image: Shutterstock

Obtained from the steam distillation of the mint plant, Peppermint essential oil has been used for centuries to aid and get relief from digestive problems.

Why Does it work?

One of the primary functions of this oil is believed to be its capability to alleviate an upset stomach. Peppermint oil has antibacterial, antifungal and antiviral properties among others.

It stimulates the colon contraction and helps incredibly in the diverticulitis pain reduction. One can experience relief from diarrhea and nausea as well by the use of peppermint essential oil.

How to use it?

Peppermint essential oil can directly be used by rubbing it on the stomach gently, 2-3 times a day provides a cooling and soothing effect from cramps. Just make sure to dilute it first with a carrier oil, preferably coconut oil and consult your doctor. Aromatherapy and diffuser can also be used.

2. Chamomile Essential oil

Chamomile oil-min
Image: Shutterstock

Coming from the Matricaria chamomilla plant(1) of the Asteraceae family, Chamomile essential oil has many properties that are helpful in dealing with diverticulitis attack and pain.

Why Does it Work?

This oil has various properties including anti-inflammatory, anti-spasmodic, spasmolytic, anxiolytic and anti-microbial properties and is considered to be excellent for treating both external and internal inflammations of the body.

It can be used for many gastrointestinal conditions. The compounds present in Chamomile oil relax the intestines and ensure improved digestion. Applying chamomile soothes irritation, stops infection and some people believe that it helps in relaxing bowel syndromes.

How to use it?

One can use this oil by taking a massage by using it on the stomach and abdominal area and repeating it for 2-3 times a day. Additionally, applying chamomile soothes irritation, stops infection and some people believe that it helps in relaxing bowel syndromes.

Other methods can also be used, however, it is recommended that you seek advice from your healthcare expert.

[Also Read: Herbal Remedies For Diverticulitis]

3. Rosemary essential oil

Rosemary oil is extracted by the distillation of Rosmarinus officinalis plant that belongs to the Lamiaceae family.

Why does it work?

Rosemary essential oil has anti-inflammatory, carminative, antibacterial, antiviral, anti-fungal, digestive and stimulant properties. Using this oil for diverticulitis can have many positive results. Its antiseptic effect helps against intestinal infections and diarrhea. Further, it aids in easing colitis, flatulence and hepatic disorders. It relieves the pain and trouble caused as a result of diverticulitis.

How to use it?

Aromatherapy can be taken using this oil. Massage and diffusers can also be used. But make sure to dilute it, check your allergies and consult your healthcare expert.

[Also Read: Probiotics for Diverticulitis]

4. Clove essential oil

Extracted from the plant, Eugenia caryophllata, clove oil is a very potent essential oil which carries a lot of importance for the digestive system.

Why does it work?

This oil has antibacterial, antiviral, anti-inflammatory, antifungal, stimulant, carminative, anti-helminthic and anti-infectious properties. It holds the ability to smoothen the muscle lining of the digestive tract.

The application of clove oil helps to prevent intestinal spasms, nausea, bloating, diarrhea and gas. It also provides relief from irritation and aids to help against vomiting and flatulence.

How to use it?

Consult your healthcare expert first and then accordingly use the essential oil for your benefit. Aromatherapy is highly recommended. Regular massages also help in the treatment.

5. Cinnamon Essential oil

Cinnamon oil-min
Image: Shutterstock

Obtained from the sweet spice Cinnamomum verum, the cinnamon essential oil is another beneficial essential oil for treating diverticulitis.

Why does it work?

It has antibacterial, antifungal, antioxidant, anthelminthic, anti-inflammatory and carminative properties. The use of diluted cinnamon essential oil on your stomach tones the digestive system and its carminative property helps to expel excess intestinal gas.

The use of this oil also helps to get relief from bloating and abdominal distension. Its regular massage helps immensely in the inflammatory conditions of the small intestine and colon which include colitis and diverticulitis(2).

How to use it?

The same method can be put into action with cinnamon oil depending upon the advice and purpose.

Why use these oils for diverticulitis?

By using essential oils, one does not need to take help from antibiotics and other chemical-based medicines, unless the case is severe. Essential oils are organic and natural methods to treat this problem. They have all the properties that help in making the condition better and also preventing it from occurring in the future.

Economically too, these oils are a good option. Also, the benefits are not limited only to diverticulitis, but many other problems and issues related to different parts of our body.

[ Read: Cure Diverticulitis Naturally ]

How do these Essential oils help?

The properties of these essential oils help in preventing the symptoms and aiding our body to act against the condition. They provide relaxation from diverticulitis pain and irritation.

Along with giving a soothing effect, these oils also counter diarrhea, vomiting, nausea, gastric issues, bloating, etc. They also show the anti-inflammatory action because of which they immensely help with the intestinal inflammations. Essential oils for diverticulitis ease the abdominal pain and also provide a lot of relief from cramps.

There are various ways of using essential oils for diverticulitis. For topical application, take the neatly diluted oil and apply it on your abdomen twice a day. One can also massage 2-4 drops of it twice or thrice a day on the stomach. Using these to the gut before and after the meals or during a flare-up prevents various issues like constipation, cramping, bloating, gas, etc.

You can also make use of essential oils for diverticulitis by putting 2-3 drops of the suitable essential oil in your hands and rubbing them together while cupping over your nose and inhaling throughout the day whenever needed.

Aromatherapy is also a suggested method.

These oils can also be used with diffusers. You may also put 8-10 drops of the oil on a cotton ball/tissue in the air vent of your vehicle or house.
No matter what the way is, do not start using without the consultation of your healthcare expert.

[ Read: Herbs for Diverticulitis ]

DIY Essential Oil Recipes for Diverticulitis

Ingredients:

1 drop of peppermint oil, one drop of chamomile oil, two drops of rosemary oil, one drop of clove oil, 5 ml of a suitable vegetable carrier oil

Method:

Blend all the mentioned oils with 5 ml of the vegetable carrier oil. Take care of the proportions that you use. Rub this DIY oil over your stomach in a clockwise motion very gently. It will ease the discomfort caused by diverticulitis pain.

Do’s and Dont’s

Do’s Dont’s
Do consult a healthcare expert and also dilute the essential oils as per the prescription before using, to avoid allergic reactions Do not store them in plastic containers
Do act smartly and choose the right brands. Do not use it without checking on your allergies.

Side Effects

  • Ingestion and use of essential oils in improper ways can lead to severe complications
  • Usage of these oils for pregnant women is not recommended
  • These oils can lead to allergic reactions if care is not taken.

Precautions

  • Take proper care of the storage of these essential oils
  • Do not let them come in contact with your eyes, ears or nose
  • Do not boil these essential oils
  • Direct exposure of these oils to the sun should be avoided.

Other Effective oils

Castor oil, cardamom oil, oregano oil, and tarragon oil are the other helpful essential oils for diverticulitis and issues related to it.

Other Natural Remedies for Diverticulitis

1. Papayas and pears

Both papaya and pears have a compelling combination of nutrients and organic compounds which improves the quality and comfort of the large intestine. Lack of fiber is a common contributory factor for this disease. These fruits are high in fiber content which is helpful in cases of Diverticulitis.

2. Garlic

Garlic, with its antimicrobial properties, is a fantastic home remedy for many health issues, diverticulitis being one of them. The active components of garlic are potent and prevent all kinds of infections throughout the body. You can consume garlic in both raw and cooked forms, and it will keep the symptoms under control.

3. Aloe vera

Aloe vera acts as an effective anti-inflammatory and soothing agent. It can be used as a natural remedy that has a soothing effect on the inflamed areas of the intestines.

Bottom Line

Diverticulitis is a very commonly occurring problem in our lives. The risk of this disease is highly increasing because of the modern-day lifestyle. In such a scenario, the treatment of diverticulitis cannot be neglected. This prevention and treatment do not demand high medication initially.

It can be done at home with natural remedies that provide us with a solution and also save us from taking the support of pharmaceuticals. These essential oils heal the problem and can be used as a highly effective alternative treatment for diverticulitis.

[ Read: Diet for Diverticulitis ]

People can buy various forms of essential oils in health food stores or choose between brands online:


FAQs

1. How long does diverticulitis take to heal?

There are several people who say that it takes about 3-4 days for the symptoms to reduce and the disease takes about 10 days to be completely cured.

2. What drinks and foods to avoid with diverticulitis?

There are a few foods and beverages that needed to be avoided:

  • Milk
  • Yogurt
  • Icecream
  • Beans
  • Cabbage
  • Onions and Garlic
  • Fermented foods such as sauerkraut/kimchi
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