I suffer from Irritable Bowel Syndrome. Is aromatherapy worth a try?

Bergamot is one of the most suitable oils for treating irritable bowel syndrome, especially if the symptoms are in anyway stress related. It can be diluted in almond oil (two drops per tablespoonful) and massaged gently clockwise into the tummy.

If you are not happy massaging it in, then simply rub the mixture on and use a microwave heated Aromatherapy wheat bag over the area to add warm gentle pressure and speed the absorption. It is also helpful to introduce bergamot into the bloodstream and the quickest way to do that is to breath it in using 6-10 drops in a burner or adding it to the bath.

Bergamot is the most important element of this treatment. However, for my clients I will often add a touch of Lavender or Chamomile to soothe the griping pains and a couple of drops of Geranium or Clary Sage to further calm the mind. The more agitated the mind the worse the symptoms so it is important, as in all aromatherapy treatments, to treat the mind as well as the body.