This fall and winter, eventually the majority of us will end up struggling with a cold or flu. The hacking, sneezing, and sniffling’s a lot. Although staying healthy and washing your hands is the best prevention, after you already have your cold or flu, what do you do then?
Essential oils have been used for 1,000s of years to tackle problems like this as an all-natural treatment. Unlike pharmaceuticals which target singular benefits, plants can have a multitude of properties. Here are some of our favourite essential oils for colds, flus, and coughs.
Rosemary oil
Rosemary isn’t just a herb to throw on top of what you might be cooking up for dinner. Forego your roast and instead, toss some rosemary essential oil into your diffuser. It can help break up mucus and reduce inflammation – both positives for treating a cold or flu.
Eucalyptus oil
Eucalyptus oil delivers an iconic forest smell, with a number of studies showing its antiviral and antimicrobial properties. Eucalyptus essential oil is said to reduce inflammation, suppress cough, reduce fever, loosen up chest congestion, and even provide some immune system support.
Frankincense oil
An anti-inflammatory, frankincense is a common oil used in treating coughs, bronchitis, and respiratory conditions. You will notice the frankincense scent to be rather woodsy and rich, in a similar vein to eucalyptus.
Peppermint oil
Peppermint oil is an excellent oil to combine with your ultrasonic aromatherapy diffuser. A study published in 2013 shared show peppermint oil could help the bronchial muscles and ease breathing tension which may help it blend well if you have a cough.
Thyme oil
Thyme oil has highly levels of compounds that are believed to be antimicrobial which means they’ll counter the germs that may be hiding in or around the house, and in the body. Thyme oil protects against certain viruses and bacteria, and is certainly a helpful essential oil to have around.
Tea tree oil
Tea tree oil has antiviral properties which makes it a recommended option to treat respiratory issues and sinus infections. This isn’t all though. Tea tree oil also has some antimicrobial and antifungal properties, which makes it a go-to alongside classics like lavender and eucalyptus.
Chamomile oil
Chamomile essential oil is a nice oil to diffuse for insomnia and late night relaxation. We don’t usually think of it as an essential oil to treat cold and flu symptoms but for some, they do find it helps. A 2010 study supports the use of chamomile to relieve cold and cough symptoms.
Find organic essential oils in Canada like these and others from Lierre.ca. Beyond these, sleep-friendly essential oils such as lavender, bergamot, clary sage, and sandalwood can also assist in treating certain symptoms of colds and flus, helping you get the rest and relaxation you need!