How to use Essential Oils for Respiratory Problems

Essential Oils (EOs) are gaining more attention as an efficient alternative therapy to complement conventional medical treatments for respiratory problems, such as chronic obstructive pulmonary disease. Research has shown their chemical composition may effectively fight bacteria and other microorganisms that cause respiratory difficulty.

It is important to view EOs as a form of holistic and complementary medicine, not as a replacement for the current state of medical treatment. Used correctly and with good therapeutical advice, EOs can play an essential role in supporting your respiratory system’s health.

Essential oils have powerful anti-inflammatory properties, which help reduce inflammation in the lungs and airways. They can also help open up clogged airways, allowing more oxygen to enter the body. Additionally, essential oils contain medicinal properties that can help treat infections and reduce the severity of symptoms.

How to Use Essential Oils Safely

Many ways to use many essential oils for respiratory problems. One of the most popular methods is aromatherapy, where you inhale the scent of an essential oil or blend of essential oils to benefit from their healing properties. You can also use a hand-held diffuser or a humidifier to disperse the essential oils into the air.

You can also apply essential oils directly to your skin, such as during massage therapy, where they are absorbed into the bloodstream and transported throughout the body. Finally, you can take essential oils orally in small doses for maximum effectiveness.

It is important to remember that you should always dilute the essential oil in a carrier oil such as jojoba, coconut or almond before applying it topically. It is also recommended to consult your healthcare provider before using essential oils to treat any medical condition.

Now, look at some of the best essential oils for these conditions.

Best essential oils for Coughs

While many medications can help with a cough brought on by the common cold, flu, or chest infection, complementary alternative therapies like essential oils can offer natural and powerful relief.

These essential oils are typically used externally in a steam inhalation or added to an ointment to apply and massage onto painful areas of the body. Combined with rest and other complementary alternative therapies such as tea or herbal steams – these essential oils may prove beneficial in relieving symptoms caused by various coughing conditions.

Eucalyptus Essential Oil

Eucalyptus oil is a popular remedy for illnesses ranging from sore throats to muscle tension. The oil’s key compound, eucalyptol, gives eucalyptus its potent aroma and anti-inflammatory properties.

It’s suggested that those looking to relieve symptoms of chest congestion can benefit from eucalyptus oil by diluting a few drops in one ounce of carrier oil, then rubbing the mixture onto their chest and throat diluting eucalyptus oil.

This has proven successful in soothing coughing fits and aiding with muscular pain relief. All in all, eucalyptus essential oil is an effective solution for natural healing and symptom reduction.

Peppermint Essential Oil

Peppermint essential oil is a powerhouse of therapeutic effects and has become increasingly popular in the wellness world. It’s used to naturally treat various respiratory symptoms like nasal congestion, sinus pressure and sore throat.

Its anti-inflammatory properties may benefit certain skin conditions if applied topical oils blend. Furthermore, its pleasant smell and cooling sensation make peppermint essential oil an excellent choice for aromatherapy.

In particular, this essential oil can help reduce fatigue and mental exhaustion while refreshing the mind and improving focus. All in all, peppermint essential oil is a great natural remedy for many common ailments.

Tea tree essential oil

Tea Tree essential oil has many respiratory benefits. Inhaling Tea Tree Oil can help to treat respiratory infections, sinus infections and even minor colds or coughs. It’s also possible to treat respiratory issues with crushed tea tree leaves – place them in a diffuser and let the aroma infuse your home with its antibacterial properties.

Make sure to keep the room well-ventilated, as Tea Tree Oil is very potent. These natural remedies can help you recover your respiratory health and reduce any respiratory distress you may experience.

Lavender essential oil

The lavender essential oil has potent calming and anti-inflammatory qualities. It’s known to relax the airways and is used as a carrier oil in massage or to add to a warm bath which aids in reducing stress and symptoms of bronchial asthma. Research suggests that the active component of lavender oil can effectively reduce asthma-related inflammation when inhaled passively, such as through nebulizing it. The lavender essential oil may relieve those looking for an alternative medicine for their asthma.

Rosemary Essential Oil

This oil can help reduce inflammation, open clogged airways, and boost the immune system. Rosemary essential oil is known for its stimulating and cleansing properties, and it has been used for centuries as a complementary alternative therapy. This oil can be used topically or aromatically to create an uplifting, energizing atmosphere.

Rosemary essential oil is beneficial for the skin when added to a carrier oil such as almond oil before being applied; it helps to clarify and revitalize dry, itchy and aging skin. The energy-enhancing aroma in the air created by diffusing rosemary essential oil is thought to promote mental clarity, drive away fatigue and stress, lift depression, and generally promote relaxation.

Oregano essential oil

Oregano essential oil is packed with a potent compound called carvacrol, providing powerful therapeutic benefits. It could help alleviate the distress caused by viral or bacterial causes of cough and may even provide relief for various other ailments.

Discovering the power of this potent oil and understanding how best to use it can unlock a natural remedy for many everyday complaints!

Cinnamon essential oil

The cinnamon essential oil has many beneficial properties that scientists have uncovered recently, including respiratory protection, sinus infections and cough relief. A 2017 study noted that this widely used spice has powerful anti-microbial capabilities, an effective method for eliminating germs that can cause severe respiratory problems.

Geranium essential oil

The geranium essential oil can be used for more than just its refreshing floral scent! Studies published in Complementary Medicine Research showed that a geranium extract known as Pelargonium sidoides might effectively treat coughs.

An enjoyable way to utilize the amazing properties of this essential oil is by adding it to a warm bath or a diffuser. This all-natural remedy shows that geranium essential oil not only smells pleasant but it may also help us stay healthy and happy!

Frankincense essential oil

Frankincense, derived from the trees of the genus Boswellia, is highly valued for its respiratory benefits. This essential oil has been used in traditional medicine to treat coughs, catarrh, bronchitis and asthma.

Whether diffused or inhaled directly from the bottle, frankincense’s power to soothe the respiratory system makes it an ideal essential oil companion. Add just a few drops to your diffuser or topically apply to the chest and back area for maximum effect – you’ll be breathing a little easier in no time!

Cypress essential oils – bergamot oil

Cypress and bergamot essential oils have all the properties of a refreshing scent with the added benefit of cell protection. All these essential oils contain camphene, a compound similar to camphor. It gives a calming effect and also helps protect cells from damage too.

With their strong fragrances and health benefits, these two essential oils will surely make all your cares disappear in a refreshingly delightful experience.

Anise essential oil

Anise oil has been used in traditional medicines for centuries. Its main benefits lie in respiratory issues, such as clearing up respiratory congestion and acting as an expectorant for coughing and colds.

Its properties make it soothing, lubricating and warming, making it a great aid to those suffering from respiratory complaints. This can be due to a common cold, the flu, or allergies, making anise oil a helpful remedy for anyone looking for respiratory relief.

Bitter fennel fruit oil

Bitter fennel fruit oil is a traditional herbal medicinal product used to support respiratory health since ancient times. It can act as an expectorant and help to alleviate coughs associated with colds.

This oil contains gifted properties that support respiratory function, encouraging easy and comfortable breathing. These properties include antioxidant and anti-inflammatory components, which help soothe respiratory tract irritations. Regular use of this oil can help maintain respiratory system health.

Thyme essential oil

Thyme essential oil is an extensively used natural oil for respiratory system health. It is composed of thymol, a plant-based compound found to be toxic microorganisms but safe for human use in existing preparations.

Along with respiratory ailments, this oil can also help treat other issues such as bronchitis, asthma and colds by providing respiratory support while soothing coughs and sore throats.

Essential oils in the treatment of respiratory tract infections

Essential oils have been used historically to manage respiratory tract diseases, including infections. Recently, the European Medicines Agency’s HMPC (Committee on Herbal Medicinal Products) has evaluated their efficacy as treatment therapies in respiratory tract infections.

Essential oils are increasingly gaining attention as potential treatments for respiratory issues due to their antiviral, antioxidant and anti-inflammatory properties.

Research has highlighted that some essential oils may potentially support respiratory tract health by fighting pathogens, reducing inflammation and relieving symptoms.

Upper respiratory tract infections

Upper respiratory tract infections (URTIs) are common illnesses that affect the upper respiratory system. Symptoms often include persistent cough, sore throat, and fever. Common URTIs include acute laryngitis, acute laryngotracheobronchitis, peritonsillar abscesses, and rhinitis.

• Acute laryngitis is caused by inflammation of the voice box due to a common cold or a viral infection.
• Acute laryngotracheobronchitis is an estimated complication of upper respiratory tract infections involving the throat and lower airways.
• Peritonsillar abscesses are most common in children between five and fifteen years old and occur when a collection of pus forms in the space between the tonsils and surrounding tissue.
• Rhinitis is inflammation of the nasal passages due to allergies or viral infection, which can lead to sneezing, runny nose, sinus pressure, or congestion.

It is important to take preventive measures such as vaccination and frequent handwashing to avoid these URTIs whenever possible.

Lower respiratory tract infections (LRTIs)

Lower respiratory tract infections (LRTIs) are illnesses that belong to the lower part of our respiratory system, including the lungs and bronchial tubes. These infections can range from mild respiratory issues to more severe ones like pneumonia.

• Acute bronchitis is a common type of infection that causes inflammation of your bronchial tubes, leading to chest pains, coughing, and fever.
• Chronic bronchitis is another form of LRTI which results from long-term damage to the respiratory system caused by smoking or other irritants in the air.
• Bronchiolitis is primarily seen in infants and young children and typically causes wheezing, shortness of breath, and runny nose.
• The most severe type of LRTI is pneumonia, an infection caused by bacteria that leads to inflammation in your lungs and leaves you feeling exhausted for long periods.

Although it can be alarming when one experiences these various forms of LRTI, many respond well to treatment quickly, with relaxing activities such as sleep beneficial for recovery.

In vivo studies

In vivo studies have become invaluable in studying bronchial asthma, allergic airway inflammation and experimentally induced bronchial obstruction. Animal models tested in vivo can help provide valuable insight into the mechanisms of constituents in these conditions.

For instance, when dealing with the effects of essential oils on respiratory diseases such as cystic fibrosis (CF), a vicious circle of bronchial obstruction, infection, and chronic inflammation of the airways ensues. A massive invasion of neutrophils often accompanies this and leucocytes, monocytes which further complicate treatment.

Studies aimed at treating this condition then focus on applying hypertonic salt solutions or osmotic agents such as mannitol to try and break through this cycle. Although these tests conducted in vivo have been beneficial and offer a promising direction for clinical treatments, they cannot be directly extrapolated to humans. Results need confirmation from clinical trials.

Human trials

Human trials may be the only way to verify the effectiveness of essential oils (EOs) in relieving common respiratory conditions. Previous human trials focusing on 1,8‐cineole or menthol have proven their ability to reduce acute bronchitis symptoms and other related respiratory issues.

Low concentrations of menthol are antitussive, while higher concentrations can help depressed ventilation and reduce respiratory discomfort and breathlessness.

These findings offer good hope that similar studies conducted with EOs could prove beneficial in treating acute bronchitis and other common respiratory illnesses.

1,8-Cineole holds a variety of properties that make it an ideal treatment for many respiratory conditions, including acute and chronic bronchitis, COPD, asthma and the common cold. Studies have shown its potential to act as an antimicrobial, antitussive, bronchodilator and mucolytic agent. This remarkable compound can even promote ciliary transport and improve lung function.

To learn more about this wonder compound and its diverse applications, readers can refer to the Handbook of Essential Oils edited by Can Baser and Buchbauer. Through extensive human trials across these various ailments, 1,8-Cineole has revealed itself to be an effective treatment for a wide range of respiratory conditions with long-term benefits.

Takeaways| How to use Essential Oils for Respiratory Problems

Essential oils are an age-old natural remedy for many common respiratory problems such as bronchitis, asthma, the common cold and pneumonia. With various essential oils available to choose from, depending on the desired therapeutic properties, it is important to do thorough research to find products that will effectively treat the symptoms of your condition.

For many people, using essential oils topically or aromatically can be beneficial in relieving their symptoms and has been shown to promote long-term respiratory system health. Even if you use essential oils as part of a combination regimen with other treatments, incorporating them into your wellness routine is an excellent choice for safely managing many respiratory sicknesses.

References

https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC7163989/#ffj3252-bib-0022
https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/21966494/

Frequently Asked Question| How to use Essential Oils for Respiratory Problems

Can essential oils help in the treatment of respiratory tract diseases?

Research has shown that certain essential oils can offer respiratory system benefits. For instance, eucalyptus and peppermint essential oils are often used to promote respiratory health and reduce the symptoms of respiratory tract diseases such as coughing and sneezing.

Many studies report that both oils contain expectorant, anti-inflammatory, and antispasmodic properties, which makes them an effective natural remedy for respiratory treatment.

What essential oils help the respiratory system?

Many essential oils can help promote optimal respiratory system health. A few of the most helpful ones include:

• Essential oil frankincense,
• Cypress essential oil
• Rosemary essential oil, and
• Thyme essential oil.

Different methods of application have additional benefits. Application of these tropical oil help to enhance the overall healthy functioning of the respiratory system. Besides this, many users often supplement the oils as mentioned above with other beneficial essential oils like

• Peppermint essential oil for a refreshing experience
• Tea Tree essential oil for purification, and
• The cinnamon essential oil supports circulation within respiration

With many options available, incorporating one or more essential oils into your routine can positively impact maintaining and promoting respiratory system health.

Where do you rub essential oils for a cough?

Rubbing essential oils directly onto the skin is one of the most effective ways to release their therapeutic properties and help support respiratory health. Applying the oil topically over the chest and throat may be especially beneficial for cough patients. Most essential oils have anti-inflammatory, antiviral, antifungal and antibacterial qualities, which can help to reduce symptoms associated with illnesses like colds and sore throats.

What oil should I diffuse for a dry cough?

Eucalyptus essential oil is one of the top choices when searching for a natural remedy to treat dry coughs. It contains unique compounds known as monoterpenes which have been studied to help reduce airway inflammation, making breathing easier and soothing a dry cough. In addition, Eucalyptus is known for its antiseptic properties, helping your body fight off secondary bacterial infections, which could cause more serious respiratory problems down the line.

Does peppermint oil stop coughing?

When looking for an effective herbal cough treatment, the first thing to consider is the type of cough you have. If you are experiencing a dry or tickly-type cough, diffusing peppermint and eucalyptus oils can help to open up airways and reduce coughing.

Both menthol and peppermint have long been used for natural cough relief as their cooling effects help clear the chest of congestion. Peppermint blends well with other essential oils such as lavender, clary sage and tea tree oil to provide a wonderfully soothing aroma while helping to reduce coughing in those who suffer from a dry or tickly-type throat.

Can essential oils help with shortness of breath?

Peppermint oil has been used for centuries to relieve pain and promote a healthy respiratory system. It is rich in menthol, which makes it great for soothing the muscular system and fighting bacteria that cause respiratory illnesses.

Many people have found that using peppermint oil helps relieve their symptoms of shortness of breath due to its ability to relax the muscles in the bronchial area of the throat. It facilitates the pressure from an inhaled breath but can help reduce the discomfort associated with this condition.

What is Young Living oil good for upper respiratory infection?

When it comes to upper respiratory infections, Young Living offers several essential oils to help ease your symptoms. These include Peppermint, Lemon, Lavender, Rosemary and Frankincense. This combination of aromatic herbs and their unique healing properties can help relieve pain from an upper respiratory infection.

From invigorating Peppermint to intensely comforting and calming Lavender, these essential oils can be used topically or diffused into the air. By carefully blending any or all of these key oils, you can create a natural environment that soothes and supports wellness goals.

What is Young Living oil good for asthma?

One of the most valuable Young Living oils for asthma is a respiratory blend known as RC. RC contains ravintsara and eucalyptus radiate essential oils, which are effective in assisting with respiratory conditions such as asthma.

Using RC oil can help reduce irritation in the respiratory tract caused by viruses, bacteria and other respiratory tract pathogens. Additionally, many chest rubs marketed for respiratory issues contain these two oils, so having this blend on hand could be a perfect alternative to commercial, chemically-infused products.

What essential oil is good for lung congestion?

Cypress essential oil has been used to promote respiratory health for centuries. Scientific studies have shown Cypress oil to be a highly effective treatment for lung congestion, reducing the intensity and frequency of coughs while eliminating toxins in the respiratory system. Cypress is also beneficial in treating other cough-related symptoms such as a sore throat, sinus pressure and bronchial irritation.

Is diffusing essential oils safe for your lungs?

Diffusing essential oils can be a safe, therapeutic addition to your ongoing wellness practices. When a few drops of essential oil are released into the air, the oil’s key compounds interact with the body, aiding various ailments.

Depending on the oil you are diffusing, it could offer a range of effects that aid in respiratory symptoms such as cold and flu congestion. While some essential oils have many health claims, always diffuse responsibly and research the oil to ensure you understand all possible contraindications.