February 10, 2023
Essential Oils for Treating Cold Symptoms
Cold and flu season can disrupt daily life and signal a need for rest and recovery. While many people rely on traditional remedies, some turn to natural options like essential oils to help manage common symptoms such as congestion, coughing, sore throat, and poor sleep. This guide explores how essential oils can be used during cold and flu season to support comfort and recovery.
Why Use Essential Oils for Cold and Flu?
Essential oils possess complex chemical compounds that exhibit antioxidant, anti-microbial, astringent, and anti-inflammatory properties. The constituents in essential oils are potent, making them a popular choice in aromatherapy and wellness routines. While there is limited research on using essential oils as treatment for cold and flu symptoms, the studies that have been conducted show promising results. A study of 60 people by the Evid Based Compliment Alternat Med found that patients had greater improvement in symptom severity when they received an essential oil spray, compared to those who received a placebo spray. Meanwhile, a review that analyzed the results of several studies found that essential oils may be a beneficial treatment for adults with upper respiratory tract infections, as well as symptoms of the flu and the common cold.
The Best Essential Oils for Colds
Clary Sage Essential Oil – Clary Sage is rich in Linalyl Acetate and Linalool, which are constituents that contribute to the oil’s anti-inflammatory, astringent, analgesic, and hypotensive properties. This herbaceous oil is believed to help maintain a fresh environment, as well as support comfort during times of seasonal illness.
Cinnamon Bark Essential Oil – Cinnamon Oil’s Cinnamaldehyde content is responsible for its spicy and warm aroma, as well as its naturally purifying and cleansing qualities. Cinnamon Oil is also believed to be effective in supporting immunity and reducing the severity of cold and flu symptoms.
Eucalyptus Essential Oil – Crisp, clean, and camphoraceous, Eucalyptus is a powerful astringent oil that can help clear nasal passages and eliminate harmful airborne bacteria. The three main constituents of Eucalyptus Oil, a-terpineol, citronellol, and camphor possess anti-microbial, antifungal, decongestant, and anti-inflammatory properties that can ease the symptoms of the common cold and support recovery.
Frankincense Essential Oil – Frankincense Essential Oil – Hailed as an oil associated with overall well-being, Frankincense is valued for its rich, resinous aroma and versatility in a variety of wellness routines. Known for its cleansing and comforting qualities, Frankincense Oil is often used in aromatherapy blends during times of seasonal discomfort.
Lavender Essential Oil – Known for its calming properties, Lavender essential oil can promote relaxation and support a good night’s sleep for when you are under the weather. Lavender may also help relieve fatigue and tension headaches that are associated with sinuses.
Lemon Essential Oil – The invigorating “liquid sunshine” is packed with cleansing and purifying properties, making Lemon Oil the most powerful anti-microbial among the essential oils. The main constituents include a-Pinene, Camphene, Sabinene, and Limonene, which contribute to Lemon Oil’s anti-septic, anti-inflammatory, antioxidant, and anti-fungal properties, making this brilliant oil ideal for treating cold symptoms and boosting immunity.
Peppermint Essential Oil – Peppermint is an excellent oil to inhale or apply to the neck and chest area to alleviate congestion and ease tension headaches. Due to its rich Menthol content, Peppermint oil is also believed to help reduce cough and relieve sore throat. Be sure to dilute the essential oil with a carrier oil if you choose to apply it topically.
Tea Tree Essential Oil – Boasting potent antiviral and antimicrobial properties, Tea Tree oil is a powerful immune system stimulant, making it especially effective for supporting recovery from illnesses. Due to its Sabinene content, Tea Tree oil is often associated with purifying and cleansing qualities, while also contributing to a refreshing and balanced aromatic experience.
How to Use Essential Oils When You Are Sick
- Use a Diffuser or Humidifier – Diffusing your space with immunity-supporting essential oils is the easiest way to help clear nasal pathways, diminish harmful airborne bacteria, or promote relaxation prior to sleep.
- Treat symptoms with a throat, chest, or sinus massage – Gently massaging essential oils for colds into areas affected by congestion can help the nasal pathways feel clearer and ease tension headaches. Be sure to dilute the essential oils with a carrier oil, such as coconut or jojoba oil, to prevent skin irritation.
- Inhalation – You can sniff the oil directly from the bottle or you can add a few drops to your hands, rub them together, and cup your nose while inhaling the aromas. To promote nasal decongestion and better sleep, apply a few drops of your choice of oil onto your pillow prior to bedtime.
- Aromatherapy Bath – Few things are more soothing than a warm bath when you’re feeling under the weather. Apply one of the above essential oils or blend more to suit your needs. Pour a few drops into the warm bath water and bathe for 20-30 minutes.
- Add Essential Oils to a Warm Compress – If you’re experiencing achiness or sore muscles, pairing healing essential oils with a warm compress may provide temporary relief. Frankincense, Eucalyptus, or Lemon oils may be very effective for treating bodily discomfort.
"Diffusing your space with essential oils is one of the easiest ways to create a more comfortable environment.”