By qualified Aromatherapist - Alissa Geddes
It's that time of year again, when the weather gets cooler and our health can start to take a turn for the worse. Colds, flu, sniffles and coughs are a familiar health concern during winter. Highly contagious, the common cold and flu is easy to pick up, so it's important we protect our immune system to prevent the spread of pathogens. Let’s explore how aromatherapy can save the day by choosing essential oils with your desired properties and how to apply them effectively.
Essential oil properties for cold and flu
Expectorant
Thins mucous in the sinuses and lungs which makes it easier to expel. For blocked nose and congested lungs, we recommend:
Anti-bacterial
Some essential oils kill pathogens from a bacterial organism.
Antiseptic
A disinfectant, these essential oils can be used on surfaces or diffused in the air. Most essential oils are antiseptic although some are stronger than others. We recommend:
Balsamic
These essential oils are great for the respiratory system and works to soothe and calm the throat. For dry cough and irritated throat we recommed:
How to use essential oils for cold & flu
Diffuser: An antiseptic oil diffused in the air will help prevent the spread of airborne pathogens. Add 8 drops to your diffuser.
Disinfectant spray: Add 10 to 20 drops of essential oils to 500mls or water in a spray bottle. Shake before use.
Steam Inhalation: Steam for the treatment of blocked sinus, congested lungs, dry cough and/ or irritated throat, add up to 2 drops of essential oil to a bowl of steaming water. Place your face close to the bowl and cover the back of your head and bowl with a towel to trap the aromatic vapours. Inhale for a few minutes and repeat every three hours for up to three days. Too many drops of essential oil in a steam treatment can cause excess mucous production and be irritating to the eyes, throat and lungs; 2 drops are enough for this method.
Compress: A hot compress can be used if steam inhalation is inappropriate; for young children, to avoid danger of scolding, etc. Add 2 to 3 drops of essential oil to a bowl of warm water. Submerge a wash cloth then wring out excess water. Apply compress to chest and change as required.
A cold compress can provide relief for painful sinuses. Follow steps above but use lukewarm to cold water and apply compress to the face especially over the forehead, cheeks and around the jaw line.
Helpful essential oils for sinus pain would include:
Massage Blend: Applying essential oils in a massage blend can help ease symptoms to promote sleep and relieve a sore neck and ribs if coughing has caused muscular strain. A 2.5% dilution; 5 drops of essential oil to 10mls of carrier oil. Helpful essential oils with the dual action of relieving sore muscles and supportive of the respiratory system include:
- Lavender
- Rosemary
- Eucalyptus
- Peppermint
- Ginger (more suitable for a productive cough than a dry cough)
Essential oil blends for cold & flu
There are also a range of blends available to help fight the symptoms of cold & flu. For blocked and congested sinuses, try our Sinus Clear Essential Oil Blend. The refreshing combination of lemongrass, lime, grapefruit and peppermint work to relieve congestion associated with cold & flu.
Shop essential oils for cold & flu
