EmbraceSeptember's change in Season with new plant-first habits to Reset your Digestion
Essential oils...simplified. We take the guesswork out — pairing the right oils with your daily habits so they become second nature
The 5th Season is the time to Reset Your DigestionAs an acupuncturist, I talk to my patients about the benefits of recognising the 5th Season in the Chinese Medicine calendar.
From mid-August to the Autumn Equinox, the prevalent energy is Earth. This energy invites us to think about how and what we eat and getting our digestive system ready for the switch to the Autumn/Winter Seasons.
Harvest time is the Earth Season in Chinese Medicine. This means encompassing transition, shedding stress and striving to become centred…which is the traditional position of the Earth in the Element Structure. We re-evaluate and articulate this on the Autumn Equinox (22nd September).
Think Yellow! The colour of Earth. Squash, pumpkin, corn etc. Start to think soups rather than salads, and reach for warm rather than cold foods (as the stomach works more efficiently when digesting warm foods).
The energy is still warm and light and Yang in nature as we make the most of this gorgeous time of year - Late Summer.
Our favourite Essential Oils to support the Digestive System
Basil: Considered by the ancient Greeks as the 'king of plants', Basil was used to anoint kings. Apply diluted to the abdomen or place in palms, rub hands together and breath in slowly for several breaths.
Ginger: Warm, energising, spicy and invigorating. It eases upset stomachs and stimulates circulation.
Peppermint: Steam distilled from the leaves, strong and invigorating. A drop in the tummy button does a world of good. It’s a strong oil so you only need a little of it and if you feel it’s too much, dilute with any carrier oil (even olive oil will do). You’ll also never taste a better cup of peppermint tea- only one drop in a cup of hot (not boiling) water for the best digestion drink. Or pop a drop on your tongue if you can handle the blast. This is the equivalent of more than 30 cups of store bought peppermint tea!
Fennel: From the crushed seeds of the plant. it has a rich aroma and reminiscent of anise. Relieves digestion and menstrual discomfort. Apply to feet if you're not a fan of the scent.
Laurel: Sweet and refreshing with a little woody touch. Add to carrier oil and massage over the abdomen.
Marjoram: Calming and warming. Combine with Evening Primrose and smooth over the abdomen. Also great for tired, sore leg muscles before sleep.
DiGize: Designed for improving digestive function, this blend helps digest toxic material and help with upset stomach, belching, bloating, and heartburn. Place a little behind the ears to alleviate morning sickness. Also helpful to get rid of parasites when applied to feet. Don’t judge this one just by its smell! I promise it is worth getting used to and will quickly become your best friend for supporting your entire digestive system. It's a blend of Tarragon, Ginger, Peppermint, Juniper, Fennel, Lemongrass, Anise, and Patchouli essential oils.
Remember to always listen to your body. Enjoy this 5th Season with the confidence that reaching for a plant first can support your lifestyle - simple, sustainable, natural solutions!
Essential Oils - Simplified. We don't just teach oils, we teach you how to use them
Essential oils can be life-changing when you know how to use them. We take the guesswork out — pairing the right oils with your daily habits so they become second nature
What to do if you Overindulge (so easy to do over summer)
Increased socialising and travel in July can mean consuming lots of foods that may differ from what you usually eat at home. And with the longer days, we tend to eat later at night than we usually do - leaving our guts full of food closer to bedtime. Picnics, BBQs, desserts and too much rosé wine can add up to a sluggish digestive system.
Two oils to the rescue!
We love to use these topically on our abdomens or internally (added to water or directly on the tongue). The relief can be within minutes. Ideally, rub the happy belly roller on before bed and let it fix your gut while you sleep!
For centuries, peppermint has been used to sooth digestive difficulties, freshen breath, relieve gas, headaches and heartburn. It’s a strong oil so you only need a little of it and if you feel it’s too much, dilute with any carrier oil (even olive oil will do). You’ll also never taste a better cup of peppermint tea- only one drop in a cup of hot (not boiling) water for the best digestion drink. Or pop a drop on your tongue if you can handle the blast. This is the equivalent of more than 30 cups of store bought peppermint tea!
Don’t judge this one just by its smell! I promise it is worth getting used to and will quickly become your best friend for supporting your entire digestive system. DiGize is a blend of Tarragon, Ginger, Peppermint, Juniper, Fennel, Lemongrass, Anise, and Patchouli essential oils. Look up the properties of these individual oils and you'll find out how amazing they are for your body! This one also comes in both the White Label and the regular-coloured label...so it's suitable for ingestion. We have grown to adore this scent because it brings comfort.
Remember to always listen to your body. Enjoy your summer activities with the confidence that reaching for a plant first can support your lifestyle - simple, sustainable, natural solutions!
