Essential Oils for Respiratory Problems

Respiratory problems include congestion, sore throat, runny nose, sinus infections, coughing and asthma. Essential oils can be used to effectively battle these types of respiratory problems.

Essential Oils for Respiratory Problems - Congestion

Congestion is one of the respiratory problems that can easily be cured by using essential oils. Inhaling rosemary, hyssop, tea tree, eucalyptus, lavender or peppermint will effectively decrease congestion.

A salve or massage oil containing essential oils can also be applied directly to the chest and throat to relieve congestion. The essential oils are absorbed through the skin and lungs as the vapors are inhaled. Place a piece of flannel or other thick cloth over the oil/salve after application to increase warmth and relieve these types of respiratory problems.

Essential Oils for Respiratory Problems - Runny Nose/Sinus Infections

Runny nose and sinus infections are respiratory problems that can be painful and inconvenient. Inhale essential oils of peppermint, tea tree and eucalyptus for sinus infections. For a runny nose, try inhaling cypress essential oil.

Essential Oils for Respiratory Problems - Asthma

Respiratory problems such as asthma are often accompanied by low-level congestion. However, it is not recommended to use essential oils during an actual asthma attack. Instead, make a chest rub of essential oils of German chamomile, frankincense or lavender to use between asthma attacks. During an asthma attack, you can give a bath with these essential oils for relief.

Essential Oils for Respiratory Problems - Prevention

Almost all of the respiratory problems we experience are caused by viruses. Essential oils of thyme, rosemary, peppermint, tea tree, eucalyptus, bergamot, Melissa and hyssop will inhibit most of these viruses, including the flu virus. Lemon and eucalyptus essential oils are effective against bacteria that causes staph, step and pneumonia infections. Make a two percent dilution for an antiseptic gargle or vapor steam.

Essential Oils for Respiratory Problems - Steam Treatments

A steam treatment carries essential oils directly to the sinuses and lungs and helps open nasal and bronchial passages with the warm, moist air. To make a steam treatment for respiratory problems, boil a pan of water and turn off the heat. Cool the water for about one minute. Add five drops essential oils to the water. Place a towel around your head and over the pan to keep the steam contained. Breathe deeply for maximum benefit.

Essential oils can also be used in humidifiers or in hot baths for the same type of effect. Either way, they are very helpful for all types of respiratory problems.

Essential Oils for Respiratory Problems - Homemade Nasal Inhaler

If steaming is impractical because you are at work, traveling, etc, inhale a tissue scented with the essential oils to bring relief from respiratory problems. You can also make your own nasal inhaler.

Ingredients:

6 drops any combination of peppermint, eucalyptus and rosemary essential oils

1 tablespoon rock salt

Directions:

Put a few pieces of rock salt in vial or other small, lidded container. Then add the essential oils which the salt will quickly absorb. Inhale as needed to bring relief from respiratory problems.

Essential Oils for Respiratory Problems - Aromatic Diffusers

Aromatic diffusers are very useful when using essential oils to treat respiratory problems. An aromatic diffuser is a small glass piece connected to a small electrical compressor that disinfects the atmosphere. This is achieved by the release of essential oils as a fine mist. There are many advantages to using aromatic diffusers. One advantage is that the essential oils can be directed into the nose and throat passages. Turn on the aromatic diffuser for ten to fifteen minutes at a time to clear bacteria from the air and soothe respiratory problems.

If a diffuser isn't available, the same effect can be gained by combining water and essential oils in a spray bottle. Spray in the air to clear bacteria and ease respiratory problems. A two percent dilution of essential oils to water is ideal for this purpose.

Essential Oils for Respiratory Problems - Sore Throat

Sore throat is another of the respiratory problems that is easily remedied with essential oils. Sage, thyme or marjoram sweetened with honey makes a wonderful gargle for laryngitis. A few drops of essential oils mixed with two ounces of water will also work very well as a sore throat gargle. Gargle at least once every thirty minutes to soothe sore throat respiratory problems.