This spring, allergies have been worse than ever. Whether you are battling the sniffles or a common cold, essential oils can really help battle cough and congestion in a natural way without using medications or medicine.
How can essential oils help with congestion?
Essential oils can be helpful in easing the symptoms of congestion by working in several ways:
- Clearing airways: Certain essential oils, such as eucalyptus and peppermint, have a cooling and soothing effect on the respiratory system. They can help to open up airways and promote easier breathing, which can be especially helpful during times of congestion.
- Reducing inflammation: Essential oils like frankincense and thyme have anti-inflammatory properties that can help to reduce inflammation in the respiratory system. Inflammation can contribute to congestion and make it harder to breathe, so reducing inflammation can be helpful in easing congestion.
- Loosening mucus: Some essential oils, such as rosemary and tea tree oil, have expectorant properties that can help to loosen mucus and phlegm in the respiratory system. This can make it easier to cough up mucus and alleviate congestion.
- Boosting immune system: Essential oils like lemon and lavender have immune-boosting properties that can help to support the body’s natural defenses against respiratory illnesses. By boosting the immune system, essential oils can help to prevent congestion from developing in the first place.
Note! When using essential oils for congestion, it’s important to remember to use them properly and to follow recommended dilution guidelines. Some essential oils can be irritating if used undiluted or in excessive amounts, so it’s important to use caution and consult with a healthcare professional if you have any concerns.
What Oils Combat Cough and Congestion?
Each essential oil above brings it’s own helpful properties to the table when it comes to combating that cough. That’s why it’s helpful to create your own essential oil diffuer blend using more than one oil.
Cinnamon
Does it smell like Big Red Gum? Yes. Is that a huge perk? Yes. But that’s not the only reason to diffuse this delicious smell. It brings antibacterial properties, and can help stop bacteria from getting worse.
Eucalyptus
Another cineole based oil, eucalyptus has been show to be helpful for COPD, asthma and bronchitis. It’s smell is much stronger than Rosemary, so handle with care!
Rosemary
Rosemary has cineole in it, which has a long record of being sage to use. It is also a large component of most vapor rubs! Not to mention- it smells a little less strongly than some of the other oils, so it is good for those of us who are more sensitive to strong odors.
thyme
If you cough seems to be a virus that is lingering and has been around a few days or more, this might be the one for you. Thyme is thought to be helpful for respiratory disorders, and it has carvacrol and thymol in it. Both of these help with bacteria, so that cold won’t settle into a place only antibiotics can touch!
lavender
Is there anything Lavender can’t do?! It is calming, which can help us from getting worked up and worsening our cough. It also has anti-inflammatory properties, which is good if your lungs are inflamed, such as with asthma.
Essential Oil Congestion Blend For The Shower
There are a lot of ways to inhale essential oils however when it comes to mucus and congestion, steam inhalation is the best option! So grab a towel and turn up the heat! The combination of steam and oils will allow you to really get the full effects.
Try these ideas:
- Try adding a 6-10 drops of essential oil to a washrag.
- Another effective option is to spray the shower walls with a water/oil mixture before jumping in.
- Add a steam cup or pot to the shower. Fill a cup with a few drops of oil and hot water. The steam in the shower will help to diffuse the oils from the cup/pot.
- Make a bath bomb infused with oils and make sure the water is in contact with it.
- Add a few drops to your body wash. (Just make sure to not get it in your eyes!!)
Final Tips For Clearly Congestions Safely
Using oils safely is key here. A good idea is to blend all of these oils together and diffuse them in your home or office to help clear the air and relieve congestion. Don’t forget about accessories for on the go! You can add a few drops to a diffuser necklace or bracelet to enjoy the benefits on the go.
What are your favorite essential oils for congestion and cough? Share in the comments below!
If you are looking for how to use a diffuser to get the most out of your oils, see some links below!
Top 2021 oil Vent & USB diffusers for your Car