Aromatherapy for Overindulgence

Overindulgence is defined the action or fact of having too much of something enjoyable. It is an excess or an amount of something that is more than necessary, permitted, or desirable. Many of us indulge in more alcohol, sweet and rich foods and higher fat snacks over the festive season which can then lead to us feeling low in energy, bloated and a little uncomfortable around the middle.

We tend to have more social engagements leading up to Christmas while catching up with friends and family and more often than not food is part of that. There comes a social pressure to go for more extravagant foods than you normally would that can leave us with a hungover feeling.

Peppermint can be used to help upset tummies and nausea either by diffusing the essential oil and inhaling or by purchasing and consuming mint herbal tea. This essential oil has a high menthol content and that can help if you have overindulged in food or alcohol. It is also stimulating and clearing to the mind. The hydrolat can be added to water to help internally.

From the apiaceae family carrot seed is known for it’s detoxification properties. It is an excellent regenerator of the liver which is most useful for those who have had more alcohol over Christmas and new years than usual. It has lipolytic properties, is diuretic and carminative meaning it can help with flatulence. This oil can easily strengthen the spirit by easing the feelings of delicateness and vulnerability which can happen when too much alcohol and sugary foods are consumed.

Another essential oil from the apiaceae family is cardamom, which is well documented for it’s use in cooking. The oil has anti spasmodic, anti-inflammatory and carminative properties and has shown to be excellent for water retention. It is recommended for the treatment of digestive complaints such as cramps, indigestion and flatulence. Cardamom is also good for nervous exhaustion and depression which can be linked to gut and overall health. Diffusing the oil or adding to some carrier oil and massaging the stomach area would be most beneficial.

Lime has a very fresh, juicy and zesty scent that really makes your mouth water. Not surprisingly it is recommended for digestive problems. The essential oil is a good lymphatic stimulant and ideal for fatigue and a tired mind especially where there is apathy, anxiety and depression involved. Lime is uplifting to the mind and can help with motivation. The hydrolat would be a great addition to water for its stimulating effect on the lymphatic system.

As always it is best to check with a qualified aromatherapist before using essential oils to ensure the safe dilution.

References

Holmes P. The energetics of western herbs, Vol 2. Artemis Press, USA, 1989.

Lawless J. The encyclopaedia of essential oils. Element Books Limited, Great Britain, 1992.

Davis P. Aromatherapy: An A-Z. 2nd edn. The C.W. Daniel Company Limited, Great Britain, 1999.