Essential oils to help prevent and treat cold and flu!

1 – Lemon
Lemon is high in vitamin C and is traditionally known for being used in home remedies such as hot lemon and honey drinks.
Lemon essential oil is antibacterial and also an expectorant. It can be diffused to kill airborne bacteria and can also be used to help slow wheezing and upper respiratory problems. SHOP >

2 – Cinnamon
Cinnamon has antiseptic, antiviral and antibacterial therapeutic properties and therefore makes it great for helping to combat cold and flu. Cinnamon is a a major anti-infectious oil and is great for diffusion or used in a blend. Always dilute this oil when using topically as it is a hot oil. SHOP >


3 – Eucalyptus
Eucalyptus is excellent for aiding in the relief of many respiratory complaints, is an expectorant and anti-infectious. Seen as a potential anti-viral essence, Eucalyptus radiata has good ‘toning’ qualities, for boosting our defensive Qi, the ‘energetic’ aspect of our immune system. It is a good antiseptic when diffused and is often a key ingredient when creating chest rubs. SHOP >

 
4 – Frankincense
Frankincense is anti-catarrhal, anti-infectious and is an expectorant which makes it helpful for aiding colds, pneumonia, respiratory problems and strep throat. It helps to relieve coughs and expel mucus.  SHOP > 

5 – Peppermint
The menthol in peppermint essential oil provides effective relief from many respiratory problems including nasal congestion, sinusitis, asthma, bronchitis and the common cold and cough. It too is often included as an ingredient in natural chest rubs to help ease congestion. SHOP >
 
6 – Clove Bud
Clove essential oil has a cooling and anti inflammatory effect, and is frequently used to clear the nasal passage. This expectorant is a useful treatment for various respiratory disorders including coughs, colds, bronchitis, asthma, and sinusitis. Chewing a clove bud was traditionally recommended to soothe sore throats. Always use this oil diluted when applying topically. SHOP >
 
7 – Basil
Basil can be used diluted to help ease headaches associated with cold and flu, ear aches, sore throats and to ease coughing by applying topically to the general area or using diluted in a throat gargle. SHOP >

8 -Red Myrtle
Red Myrtle is best known for helping respiratory problems. It benefits smoker’s cough, bronchitis, flu, colds, and sinus infection. It can also be used as a disinfectant. SHOP >


9 – Oregano
Throughout the centuries, oregano essential oil has been used to soothe coughs and colds. Oregano essential oil helps to boost the immune system. It’s antiviral, antibacterial and antifungal properties enable it to fight off infection of all kinds. SHOP > 

10 – Scots Pine
Scots Pine (aka Scotch Pine) has a powerful clearing effect which is suited to use in inhalations, and is a valuable support for the respiratory system. Scots Pine helps to support natural restorative respiration and to help clear chest congestion. Use in a steam inhalation or a chest rub. Scots Pine may be fortified by adding any eucalyptus oil. SHOP >

11 – Rosemary
Rosemary has antiseptic, anti-fungal, antibacterial and antiviral properties and is useful for sinus, lung and throat infections, congestion, colds and
flu.
There are some differences in the chemotypes of each different rosemary oil. Rosemary CT2 Cineole essential oil is best for respiratory conditions. SHOP >

12 – Ginger
Ginger essential oil is a good expectorant and is effective in treating various respiratory problems such as cold, cough, flu, asthma, bronchitis and breathlessness. Traditionally ginger root is very effective in removing mucus from the throat and lungs, so it is often added to tea in India. SHOP >

Please refer to directions of each essential oil before use.  

Other great oils for cold & flu include – cypress, grapefruit, spike lavender, tea tree, spearmint, manuka, sandalwood & orange.
 
 
Please note this information is for educational purposes only.

© Aromatherapy For Australia
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