VOMITING

Vomiting isn’t usually cause for concern, though it’s certainly something we’d all like to avoid. That’s easier said than done with so many potential triggers, including anxiety, illness, allergy, food contamination, and hormonal changes. At times, it’s not possible to stop it completely. With essential-oil remedies, there is a chance of relieving the urge and potential for vomiting.

Essential Oils That May Help

Alone or combined, some suggested essential oils for vomiting are:

•  Cardamom

•  Fennel

•  Ginger

•  Lemon

•  Peppermint

Safety First

Seek medical treatment if you suspect your vomiting is due to a serious medical condition, if your vomiting is prolonged, or if it seems unusual and not a result of a virus or pathogen. If you are pregnant and experiencing morning sickness, turn here for pregnancy-friendly aromatherapy remedies.

How to Use Them

Whether you’re just starting to feel queasy or you’ve already gotten sick, aromatherapy techniques may provide relief.

•  Stomach massage. Massaging digestive essential oils onto your stomach in slow, clockwise circles while taking deep breaths may reduce the urge to vomit.

•  Soothing soak. If vomiting is a symptom of anxiety or stress, try relaxing in a warm bath infused with calming and settling essential oils.

•  In the air. Diffusing or inhaling certain essential oils can calm nausea and possibly prevent vomiting.

Natural Partners for Aromatherapy

For maximum results, combine your essential oils with these other natural remedies:

•  Take deep breaths. Deep breathing may relax your stomach and help ease the urge to vomit.

•  Hydrate. Beverages that may stop vomiting include ginger ale and peppermint tea.

•  Try acupressure. Firmly massage or press the point 2 inches below your wrist.

Remedies for Vomiting

For support during episodes or to prevent occurrences, these are three easy ways to treat vomiting using aromatherapy.

STOMACH-SETTLING MASSAGE

Fennel and ginger are two of the most effective oils for treating digestive upset. Apply this blend when you need relief.

3 drops fennel oil

2 drops ginger oil

1 teaspoon carrier oil

Combine the oils in a small bowl. Massage the mixture onto your stomach, as needed.

BATH BLEND FOR STRESSED STOMACHS

If anxiety or stress is causing an upset stomach, sink into a warm (not hot) bath and let these oils ease the tension. Take slow, deep breaths to help your stomach relax.

7 drops cardamom oil

5 drops fennel oil

1 tablespoon unscented bath soap or vodka

Combine the oils in a small glass bowl before adding them to a warm bath while the water runs.

DIGESTIVE-UPSET DIFFUSER BLEND

Each of the oils in this simple diffuser blend has powerful antinausea properties that may help ease nausea and prevent vomiting.

3 drops peppermint oil

3 drops ginger oil

2 drops lemon oil

Every diffuser is different. Follow the manufacturer’s directions for diffusing this blend.