It's the first week of November: you’ve probably been popping “fun sized” candies into your mouth all week and your next thoughts are on what you’ll be cooking for Thanksgiving. We are in full-fledged binge eating season, my favorite time of year! However, we can all admit to making some regrettable decisions when it comes to over indulging during the holidays. Over-eating can turn a night of family fun into a night of being stretched out on the couch, holding your tummy and moaning "why did I eat so much?." Now, we have all been there.

Thankfully there are essential oils that can help! My two favorite essential oils for digestion complaints are peppermint and fennel. They both have a lot in common and can be used separately or together.

Peppermint Essential Oil Peppermint is widely known to aid digestion, hence the standard after-dinner mint available at restaurants. One of the most popular essential oils, it has a plethora of other uses and is one that I always have on hand. Most people enjoy the fresh, uplifting aroma of peppermint and find it soothing and cooling on contact.

Peppermint oil can be used to calm symptoms of heartburn and acid reflux. It can also be used to reduce the feeling of nausea by diffusing or rubbing a drop or two behind the ears. Cramping, discomfort caused by gas and bloating, and constipation can all be soothed with an application of peppermint oil.

Fennel Essential Oil The aroma of fennel essential oil can be compared to anise or licorice, which is pleasant to some but unappealing to others. For those who find it too pungent, it blends well with other oils. For example: when mixed with peppermint and wintergreen it resembles the aroma of old fashioned root beer!

Fennel has been used for centuries to relieve gas, bloating and constipation. It has been known to jump kick the digestive system, which makes it great for eliminating waste and boosting metabolism. Fennel can also be used to ease discomfort caused by menstrual cramps and other muscle spasms.

How to use these oils to combat digestive issues:

(remember, these oils can be used together or separately, or blended with other oils)

• Diffuse before and/or after a meal
• Dilute 2-3 drops with 1 tsp of a carrier oil and massage into your stomach area or on the bottom of your feet
• Place a drop or two on palms, rub palms together, cup hands over nose and inhale deeply up to five times, or inhale directly from the bottle

BONUS: Both Peppermint and Fennel are appetite suppressants. So if you’re trying to avoid digestive complaints altogether, diffusing or inhaling these oils when cravings hit or right before dinner can help with self control. Keep these handy for your New Year’s resolutions as well - these oils are both known to help with weight loss, boosting metabolism while curbing your appetite all at once.

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