Aromatic oils for the prevention of colds indoors. Essential oils for flu and colds

There are no absolutely healthy people - every person has had a cold at least once in his life. And everyone treats treatment differently: some trust only proven medications, and some prefer natural remedies. Everyone knows that long-term and frequent use of drugs weakens the immune system, and some natural products, such as essential oils, on the contrary, help to strengthen it. So how can you fight colds with ethers?

Essential oil therapy is not only an easy, but also a pleasant way to resist viral and bacterial infections. With their aggressiveness to microbes, they are absolutely harmless to humans. Esters create a special environment that is unsuitable for the life of pathogenic microorganisms. In addition, concentrated oils accelerate the penetration of antibiotics into human cells, increasing their effect several times.

Video: how essential oils protect against colds

Treatment of ailments and their symptoms

Each name of the ether has an individual set of useful properties, but still they can be subdivided into subgroups according to the main directions of action:

  • antipyretic: eucalyptus, lavender, chamomile, lemon balm, lemon, bergamot, mint;
  • anti-inflammatory: chamomile, sage, thyme, cloves, tea tree, juniper, myrtle, grapefruit;
  • antiviral: lemon, lavender, pine, fir, juniper, sage, tea tree, eucalyptus;
  • immunostimulating and restorative: lavender, chamomile, tea tree, sage, rose, eucalyptus, ylang-ylang, juniper.

It is possible to use both one name of oil, and combination of several options. However, mixing more than three flavors is undesirable.

Due to the fact that essential oils are a highly concentrated product, treatment should be started with small doses: for the first time, it is better to limit yourself to two drops.

Cough

Essential oils help fight infection, relieve bronchial spasms, thin phlegm and remove it from the respiratory tract. But before choosing the right scent, you need to determine the nature of the cough:

  • when dry, esters of eucalyptus, conifers (pine, fir, spruce), juniper, sandalwood, bergamot, ginger, cypress, lavender, chamomile, tea tree will be effective;
  • against a wet cough, accompanied by phlegm, preference should be given to basil, bergamot, lemon balm, peppermint, marjoram, rosemary, sandalwood, tea tree, fennel, thyme, sage, eucalyptus.

Some esters have complex effects that help with any type of cough.

Esters can be used to treat coughs in a variety of ways. But any of them effectively fights the symptom of the disease and strengthens the state of the body as a whole.

Inhalation

Inhalation is done in two ways: cold and hot. For cold procedures, a nebulizer is used: a couple of drops of a certain ether are added to saline, the vapors of which are inhaled deeply through the mouth. The procedure lasts about 20 minutes, the course of treatment is 7-10 days. In the absence of this device, you can get by with a simpler option: soak a handkerchief with two drops of oil and breathe the smell emanating from it for several minutes.

The hot method is more common. It can be used without special units:

  1. Boil a liter of water and add the selected oil ensemble (or one name of ether) to it in the amount of two to five drops.
  2. Cool the boiling water a little to avoid scalding the respiratory tract.
  3. Bend over the dishes with liquid, covering your head with a towel and closing your eyes, and breathe fragrant vapors through your mouth for five to seven minutes.

Coughing up occurs after the second procedure. But there is no need to stop: continue treatment for at least a week in the morning and evening until the symptom disappears.

Aromatherapy

Aromatherapy is recommended when treating mild ailments. During the session, ethereal aromas fill the entire space, preventing viruses from spreading. For the procedure, an aroma lamp is used, which should work for at least 30 minutes, but not exceeding two hours. Such sessions can be carried out all day, but with a break of at least 3 hours. The course of treatment is 5-7 days.

In the absence of a special unit, you can fill a small bowl with slightly cooled boiling water, diluting it with a drop of the selected oil.

The most suitable concentrate for aromatherapy is eucalyptus essential oil.

Water procedures

Having a normal body temperature, it is good to take aromatic water procedures: mix 5-6 drops of ether (or several fragrances) with sea salt (half a glass) and pour into a full warm bath. Relax and lie down for 15 minutes, ending the session with a warm bed.

Massage

Rubbing the chest and back with a specially prepared massage mixture is an effective addition to medication for cough relief. To prepare a massage agent, it is enough to add a couple of drops of concentrated aroma to any oil base (for example, olive oil). The duration of the session is 10 minutes, it should be repeated daily for 7-10 days.

Doctors often prescribe warm compresses. To do this, the above mixture must be applied to a warm base (potatoes, honey, cabbage leaves cooked in a uniform) and applied to the chest on both sides, bypassing the heart, for half an hour. The recommended course of treatment is 7-10 days.

Runny nose

Fighting a runny nose with ethers is an excellent solution to the problem, which gives a high therapeutic effect, has no negative consequences and contraindications (except for individual intolerance). In this case, you should purchase the following names of ethers:

  • tea tree;
  • eucalyptus;
  • fir;
  • thyme.

These natural remedies can be used in many ways.

Burying the nose

For nasal instillation, you need to combine two drops of the chosen aroma with half a teaspoon of olive oil. In each nasal passage, 1/4 of a pipette of an oil product should be injected, after that lying on your back for several minutes. Do about 5 instillations a day until the symptom disappears.

In the absence of strong secretions, it is enough to lubricate the skin of the nostrils with tea tree ether. This concentrate has a high level of effectiveness, it is able to resist even antibiotic-resistant microorganisms.

Washing

To rinse the nose, you need to brew 400 ml of a decoction of chamomile or sage, add 3-4 drops of ether (for example, thuja) to it and mix well. With this solution, rinse the nasal passages several times a day until the symptom relieves.

When green or yellow mucus is released, it is necessary to prepare a slightly different solution for washing: dilute half a tablespoon of sea salt with a whole spoonful of warm water, drip a couple of drops of eucalyptus ether, and then dilute it all in 100 ml of chlorophyllipt. Apply liquid up to 4 times a day for a week.

Inhaling fragrances

When the common cold is eliminated, additional therapies such as inhalation and aromatherapy are often prescribed. These procedures are similar to those described above, but with the addition of aromas corresponding to this ailment. And with one more nuance - you need to inhale the vapors through your nose.

With sinusitis, warm inhalations with rosemary, thyme and mint esters in a 2: 1: 1 ratio will be effective. These 4 drops must be introduced into a liter of moderately hot boiled water and breathed in vapors through the nose for about twenty minutes. The course of treatment is 10 procedures.

You can't explain to a small child that you need to calmly work up in order to inhale to improve breathing with a clogged nose. And you can't keep my one and a half year old son in a room with an aroma lamp - he is constantly worn throughout the apartment. Therefore, I simplify the task a little by dripping a drop of essential oil onto his clothes. It's very simple - the baby moves around the room, and the smell follows him. So I am confident that my child will receive all the benefits of the procedure. After half an hour, I change my clothes, because it is not recommended to breathe in ethers for a long time, especially for young children.

Video: essential oil against the common cold

Sore throat

The most effective fragrances for sore throats are:

  • mint;
  • lemon;
  • eucalyptus;
  • oregano;
  • cloves;
  • juniper.

Rinsing

To relieve pain symptoms in inflammatory processes in the throat, it is recommended to rinse the mouth and throat. It is not difficult to prepare a healing solution for this procedure:

  1. Prepare a warm rinse liquid. It can be herbal infusion, plain warm water, or with a teaspoon of salt and soda added to it per glass.
  2. Dissolve 5 drops of the selected aroma or a mixture of several options in a small amount of emulsifier (honey is best used).
  3. Mix all.

Rinse every 2-3 hours, and in case of severe pain - after an hour.

Features of treatment with essential oils for children

For colds, children are often prescribed a lot of medications that have many side effects. But few people know that with the help of essential oils you can not only alleviate unpleasant symptoms, but also strengthen the immune system. In any case, you should not self-medicate, and before using even such harmless drugs as essential oils, you should consult a pediatrician.

Some rules for using concentrated aromatic oils for children:

  • give preference to only 100% natural ethers;
  • use oils with extreme caution if the child is prone to allergic reactions;
  • strictly observe the recommended dosage;
  • do not apply undiluted oils to the skin;
  • when carrying out medical procedures, do not leave the child alone.

The following are considered the best esters for treating colds in children:

  • chamomile;
  • lavender;
  • dill;
  • bergamot;
  • fennel;
  • ginger;
  • orange;
  • eucalyptus;
  • tea tree;
  • pine;
  • cedar.

Therapeutic procedures that are permissible for childhood colds:

  • fragrant baths. When bathing, add to the bath the appropriate amount of the selected scent mixed with 1 tsp. base oil;
  • massage. After the aroma bath, it is good to give the child a back and breast massage using the massage mixture prepared according to the table below;
  • inhalation. For older children, you can use a nebulizer, and for very little ones, use an aroma lamp, dropping the amount of ether drops corresponding to the child's age into a bowl of water.

Table: dosage of essential oils for children

Child's ageBath oil amount 10 l, dropsThe amount of oil for an aroma lamp for 15 m 3, dropsThe amount of oil for the massage mixture for 1 tbsp. l. base oil (olive, peach, apricot, almond), drops
2-8 weeks1 1 1
2-12 months1–2 2–3 2
1-5 years3–4 3–4 2–3
6-12 years old4–6 5–7 3–5

Important: Essential oils are not recommended for children under 2 weeks of age.

Prevention of colds

For the prevention of colds, the following essential oils are most effective, which have a tonic and immunostimulating effect:

  • tea tree;
  • eucalyptus;
  • pine trees;
  • rosemary;
  • cypress;
  • thyme;
  • fir.

During an epidemic, it is advisable to observe some preventive measures in order to protect yourself and loved ones from insidious viruses:

  • aromatization of premises. This method will help cleanse the air of pathogenic bacteria and prevent the spread of various viruses. The procedure can be carried out using an aroma lamp or by dropping a few drops of ether on a paper napkin, which will radiate aroma for the next 30 minutes;
  • aroma medallion. Often, children of school and preschool age hang a pendant around their necks with a cotton wool soaked in a couple of drops of ether inside, which allows them to inhale the beneficial aroma until it fizzles out;
  • aroma baths. To add essential oil to a filled bath, you must first dissolve it in 50–100 g of an emulsifier (sea salt, milk, honey, kefir), since this concentrate does not dissolve in water. This bath should be taken within 10-15 minutes.

I love it when my apartment smells like my favorite aromas, in my case it is lavender. When cleaning, I always add a few drops of this ether to a bucket of water for cleaning floors, and I also wipe the surfaces with a rag dipped in fragrant liquid. Rooms are immediately refreshed, the mood rises, inspiration for good deeds is born. And the most important thing is that the air we breathe is disinfected and becomes, as it were, sterile. This is especially important in the autumn-winter period, when there are solid viruses around. At this time, I supplement the lavender with a few drops of juniper and lemon oils. The aroma lasts 2-3 hours. By the way, my children get sick no more than once a year!

Video: preventing colds with essential oils

Contraindications and possible consequences

As a product of high concentration, any essential oil can cause an allergic reaction. Therefore, before the first use, it is imperative to conduct an allergy test. To do this, apply a drop of ether to the inner fold of the elbow and wait 1 hour. If itching, redness, irritation does not appear, then there is no allergy.

In addition to allergies, there are some restrictions on the treatment with essential oils:

  • bronchial asthma, tuberculosis, pneumonia;
  • epilepsy;
  • diseases of the cardiovascular system;
  • severe headaches and dizziness;
  • pregnancy;
  • the child is less than 2 weeks old;
  • allergy.

In the absence of allergies and contraindications, treatment of colds with essential oils will be an excellent addition to medication. Besides the benefits, the aromatic medicine will bring great pleasure, pleasant relaxation and peace of mind. The main thing is to observe the dosage of oils and the frequency of procedures.

With the onset of cold weather, more and more often people go to the doctor with colds. In most cases, treatment takes place at home in compliance with all the recommendations of the attending physician. Essential oils have become very popular today. They can be used in the treatment of flu, colds, SARS for adults and children.

Treatment in adults

The common cold is a viral disease, one of the symptoms of which is a runny nose. For the treatment of an ailment in an adult, various aromatic oils can be used during a number of healing procedures.

Aromatic baths

Why not combine business with pleasure and take water treatments using essential oils. The duration of the manipulation will be 10 minutes. After the bath, you do not need to rinse your body, you need to put on warm clothes, wrap yourself in a blanket.

To carry out healing manipulation, it is worth using just one ether, supplementing it with sea salt.

Here are some popular recipes:

  • coniferous ether + eucalyptus + thyme;
  • lavender + chamomile + eucalyptus;
  • juniper + eucalyptus;
  • chamomile + tea tree + orange + thyme.

Aromatherapy

With the help of aromatherapy, it is possible to eliminate the infection, which is transmitted by airborne droplets. Thus, it is possible to cleanse the air, relieve nasal congestion with a cold and, in general, has a positive effect on the body with a cold. For aromatherapy, it is worth using an aroma lamp, aromatic medallions. Turn on the lamp, add a mixture of citrus esters to the container with water.

You can also add tea tree and eucalyptus oil. Inhale therapeutic vapors 3 times a day. You can use your own recipe with aromatic oils. Moreover, their concentration should be 5-6 drops per 10 m2.

If you use aroma medallion, then it will be worn on the chest as a pendant. Healing scents will eliminate viruses permanently. Only from time to time you have to change the ethers. Purify the air from pathogenic microorganisms using aromatherapy during the period of flu and other ailments that are transmitted by airborne droplets.

Inhalation

Adults can treat a runny nose and colds with inhalation. It is necessary to add all just a few drops of ether and inhale the vapors for 3 minutes. At the same time, oils such as fir, chamomile, eucalyptus, menthol can be used.

In the photo, inhalation for adults with a cold

After the manipulation, you need not go out into the cold, exclude physical activity and not eat for an hour. The course of therapy lasts 1 week.

Treatment in children

Aromatic oils can help relieve cold symptoms in children and help get rid of viruses.

For these purposes, you can use the following recipes:

  1. You need to take 2 drops of these oils: eucalyptus, lavender, peppermint and bergamot. Use the presented mixture for inhalations; inhale vapors for children for no more than 5 minutes.
  2. Combine 5 drops each of rosemary, pine, geranium eucalyptus, sunflower oil and 2 drops of peppermint. Apply the resulting mixture to perform a chiseled massage of the sinuses.
  3. To purify the air, you can use this combination of oils: 2 drops each of eucalyptus, lavender and tea tree. Send this mixture to an aroma lamp and inhale the healing vapors throughout the day.

In the treatment of influenza and ARVI in adults

With an epidemic of influenza and SARS in adults, treatment can be carried out using various aromatic oils.

Rosemary

This product is effective against inflammatory pathogens. Copes well with cold and flu symptoms. It is used when performing massage of the temporal region and the bridge of the nose in order to reduce nasal congestion, headaches.

On the photo - rosemary for adults

Cannot be used during pregnancy and in patients with epilepsy and arterial hypertension.

Lavender

This product has excellent antiseptic and antimicrobial effects. Lavender oil strengthens the defenses and has a tonic effect. When used, it is possible to fight viruses and bacteria that lead to the development of the disease.

In the photo - lavender for colds for adults

Landa ether can be used in the form of inhalation for pneumonia, laryngitis, cough. Its action will eliminate inflammation and thin phlegm.

Peppermint oil

This ester is characterized by antiseptic, soothing and anti-inflammatory effects. In addition, it can be used with a dry cough to cough up phlegm. Peppermint oil is used for inhalation for flu and colds. You can get a guaranteed result, provided that the treatment began at an early stage of the disease.

Photo - peppermint oil for colds for adults

Esters such as lavender and marjoram can be used in combination with peppermint essential oil. When using peppermint oil in the treatment of influenza and acute respiratory viral infections, it must be remembered that medical procedures should be carried out with a moderate amount of ether. Otherwise, bronchospasm and allergies may develop.

What is the best remedy for ear pain with a cold and what it is called, is indicated in this article:

But how to treat colds and ear congestion, and what drugs are the best in treating this disease, is described in great detail in this

In the treatment of influenza and ARVI in children

For the treatment of influenza and acute respiratory viral infections in young patients, essential oils should be used with extreme caution and under the guidance of a doctor.

Fir

This product effectively fights the unpleasant symptoms of flu and colds. It must be used in a pure form, without the use of foreign oils. Rubbing and inhalation are performed for the child with the help of fir oil. But for aromatic air purification, it is not recommended to use the product.

On the photo - fir oil against ARVI

Eucalyptus

This product is characterized by its antibacterial effect. Thanks to this, it is possible to eliminate pathogenic microorganisms.

In the photo, eucalyptus oil against ARVI

Used for aromatic air purification. To do this, it is placed in an aroma lamp. Can be combined with various ethers.

Tea tree

This ether has a powerful antiseptic effect. In addition, it can be used to deal with fungi, bacteria and viruses. It is necessary to use tea tree ether during inhalation. Thanks to this procedure, it is possible to eliminate a runny nose and cough.

In the photo - tea tree oil against ARVI

Cardamom

This ester effectively relieves headaches, runny nose and cough. They act when performing inhalations, so that mucus can be removed from the nose. Cardamom oil is effective in treating flu when rubbed. But at the same time it is necessary to dilute it with olive oil.

In the photo - cardamom oil against ARVI

Anise

This aromatic ester acts as an antiseptic, expectorant and pain reliever. Applying it for the flu, you can eliminate a runny nose, cough. And anise oil effectively treats sore throat, as well as attached. The product should be used in combination with such esters as juniper and chamomile. They are used when performing inhalations.

On the photo - anise oil against ARVI

And if you put a couple of drops in a woven cloth with water, you can get an effective rinse solution.

How is the treatment of colds with calcium gluconate according to the system of Dr. Komorowski, and how effective this treatment is, is described in great detail in this

How to use tea with ginger for colds and coughs, and how to brew it correctly for the best effect, is described in this

Preventing colds

You can protect the body from colds, strengthen the immune system and give vigor with the help of various aromatic oils. The choice of a particular product depends on how it is used:


Aromatic oils are effective in treating colds, SARS and flu. They can be applied in various ways or combined to obtain maximum effect. When using aromatic oils, you must understand that it is impossible to cure a cold from their use alone. For this, other methods of therapy prescribed by the doctor will have to be applied.

Ekaterina Rakitina

Dr Dietrich Bonhoeffer Klinikum, Germany

Reading time: 2 minutes

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Last updated article: 05/11/2019

Essential oils are often used in the treatment of many diseases, both in adults and children. Aromatherapy allows you to calm down, relieve abdominal pain, disinfect a wound, and improve sleep without drugs. But most often, essential oils are used for colds.

When and what essential oils are used

Essential oils are allowed only for those newborns who are over 2 weeks old. In this case, it is first important to make sure that there are no allergies to them. To do this, 1 drop is applied to a scarf and given to the baby to smell. I repeat this several times a day. If the child's eyes did not begin to water, red spots did not appear on the face or hands, a runny nose, then the reaction is normal.

For a child under 2 months old, essential oils of lavender, rose, chamomile are recommended. The safest among them is chamomile with its antiseptic properties. A good antiseptic and lavender, which also has a sedative effect. Rose oil is actively used to prevent influenza and SARS in children, it removes headaches and improves sleep.

Eucalyptus is a powerful antiviral agent for the respiratory system. It helps to reduce inflammation of the nasal mucosa. Eucalyptus oil is added only to the aroma lamp.

Children who have not yet reached 2 years old will still benefit from the essential oils of ylang-ylang, fennel, patchouli, bergamot, orange, sandalwood, and fir oil. Lemon, tea tree and geranium oils are only suitable for flavoring.

Bergamot helps against upper respiratory tract infections. In the summertime, its scent repels insects.

Fennel has antispasmodic and expectorant properties. It is able to alleviate the condition of children with colds, bronchitis, whooping cough.

Sandalwood oil soothes and relaxes, while boosting immunity by increasing protection against harmful bacteria.

Tea tree oil disinfects the larynx and bronchi. Its aroma is tart, bitter. Tea tree oil strengthens the immune system and increases the body's resistance to infections. It fights streptococcus. Tea tree oil is used for tonsillitis and laryngitis.

For the prevention of colds in children in autumn and winter, aromatherapy is carried out regularly. The frequency of procedures is 2-3 times a week.

Fir oil is most effective for rhinitis. It contains tannins, which give it such a specific smell. Fir oil stimulates the immune system, kills germs and viruses in the air. It narrows the vessels in the nose, relieves puffiness. The result of its application is a quick cure for a cold. Fir oil quickly relieves the symptoms of not only acute, but even chronic rhinitis.

How to use essential oils to treat children

The most common use of essential oils is to scent a room. It is carried out by means of a special aroma lamp, into the upper part of which water is poured (oil is dripped into it), and a small candle is placed in the lower part. The candle is lit. The fire heats the lamp and the water in it, due to which a pleasant smell spreads throughout the room. The essential oil dosage depends on the area of \u200b\u200bthe room. Usually use 1 drop of oil per 5 sq. m. The first couple of days on this procedure is spent no more than 20 minutes. Over time, aromatherapy is extended to an hour. In no case should a child be left alone in a room with a burning candle.

Instead of an aroma lamp, any clay product is suitable, as well as citrus peels, pieces of natural wood, small cushions made of natural fabric. They absorb aromas well. The selected items are laid out around the room, and 1-2 drops of essential oil are applied to each of them. It is also added to water during wet cleaning (2 drops per 5 liters of water) or to a spray bottle for spraying around the room (1 drop per 100 ml of water).

Essential oils are often added to baby bath water. In this case, it is mixed with an emulsifier, since it itself will not dissolve in water, but will remain on its surface. Milk (cream), honey (if there is no allergy), sea salt can be used as an emulsifier. At first, this procedure should not exceed 5 minutes. The bath is gradually brought up to 30 minutes.

For colds and pains, warm compresses with essential oils (for example, tea tree or fir) are effective. The oil is dropped into water, a cloth is dipped into it, squeezed out and applied to the throat or nose. The recommended dose is 1 drop in a glass of water.

Massages are very useful for children under one year old. They are done daily after bathing. The massage time is 10 minutes. In the process, you need to constantly be in contact with the baby: talk to him, hum a song. For massage, a couple of drops of tea tree essential oil (or any other) are added to 30-50 ml of the base oil (jojoba, soy, almond, apricot, sunflower, calendula, rose hips, wheat germ, grape seeds). You can take a cream as a base.

Do not apply pure oil to your baby's skin. Direct contact with the skin may cause irritation and even burns.

For the prevention of colds, the room is scented using eucalyptus, lavender, fir, lemon oils, tea tree.

In case of a cold, rub the chest and back with a mixture of chamomile, lavender (1 drop each) and almond oils.

For respiratory diseases, a drop of oil (for example, fir) is dripped onto the pillow or sheet on which the child sleeps, so that he inhales beneficial vapors. Oil is also dripped onto the baby's pajamas or simply into a container of water, which must be installed in a room with a baby bed, but so that the child does not reach for it.

No less healing than fir and tea tree oil, for colds - camphor oil. It successfully treats coughs and is used by some parents. However, the instructions say that camphor oil cannot be prescribed to children under 2 years old.

Basic rules for using essential oils

Before starting to treat a child with essential oil, you should consult a pediatrician. Parents should use aromatherapy with caution.

Quality oil is purchased exclusively from pharmacies or specialized stores. It should be sold in tinted glass jars with a dispenser. Store this product in a dark, dry and cool place and dispose of at the expiration date printed on the package.

Make sure that the oil does not get into the baby's mouth, nose, eyes. It can cause at least discomfort and burning, at most - a burn of the mucous membrane.

Age-appropriate dosage must be strictly observed. Better to drip less than you need to than to overdo it. If the norm is exceeded, side effects may occur - insomnia, rash, emotional overexcitation, a sense of anxiety.

Sometimes aromatherapy can be very effective, but it cannot replace traditional medicine. In case of serious illnesses, treatment with essential oils may be ineffective or even dangerous for the health of the child.

Aromatherapy today is one of the most popular procedures not only for body care, but also as a wonderful natural antiviral agent.

Essential oils for colds are used for treatment, supportive measures, and prevention of illness. Healing aroma procedures have protective, restorative, antibacterial functions, which contribute to a quick and effective recovery.

Fir essential oil for the prevention of colds and the treatment of infectious and inflammatory diseases of the ENT organs, respiratory organs. It is used as an aid for pneumonia, bronchitis, sore throat, rhinitis.

Eucalyptus acts as an antiviral, antipyretic, antiseptic, strengthening immunity, expectorant. Its use gives positive results in the fight against acute respiratory infections and acute respiratory viral infections, bronchitis.

This ester is great for removing excess mucus, which is the cause of coughing.

Tea tree oil has a powerful antibacterial effect, helps to inhibit the development of various pathogenic bacteria. It can be used for pneumonia, flu, colds, tonsillitis, sinusitis, otitis media.

The extract is endowed with strong immunomodulatory, anti-inflammatory, expectorant, diaphoretic properties.

Lemon, as well as other citrus fruits (tangerine, lime,), helps to alleviate the condition of a patient with a cold by strengthening the immune system.

Works as an antiseptic, analgesic, antioxidant, tonic natural preparation, inhibits the activity of viral infection.

Rosemary restores the body's defenses, has disinfecting properties, has an antitussive effect, helping to significantly reduce spasms of bronchial and asthmatic origin.

Pine can be used to alleviate pain in the throat, resume nasal breathing, as an expectorant, which remarkably removes phlegm. Aromatherapy makes it possible to significantly improve health.

Lavender ether is characterized by a wide healing effect on the body. The oil effectively fights various bacteria, infections, is used as an anti-inflammatory, soothing, restorative natural remedy.

Useful for respiratory tract diseases, acute respiratory infections, ARVI.

Peppermint essential oil improves immunity, lowers fever, is well suited for the treatment of the upper respiratory tract, relieves nasal congestion and other symptoms of the common cold.

Thyme is an excellent antiseptic, which contributes to the rapid recovery of the body after illness, is an analgesic, immunodulatory, expectorant, anti-inflammatory agent of natural origin.

Treatments with this oil are useful for colds and chronic respiratory diseases.


Sage acts on the body as a fortifying drug, which removes phlegm, effectively relieves inflammatory processes of the respiratory organs, throat.

Juniper, like other essential oils against colds, is beneficial due to its high antiseptic, anti-infectious properties. They are essentially natural antibiotics.

Cardamom and aniseed fight headache, symptoms of cough and runny nose.

You can learn more about the properties of each oil from.

Essential oils for cold prevention and treatment are the right choice of an effective natural remedy.

  • To relieve the temperature - bergamot, lemon balm, lavender, eucalyptus,.
  • To strengthen the immune system - grapefruit, lemon, pine, juniper, ylang-ylang, sage.
  • For antiseptic purposes - rosemary, tea tree, clove, thyme,.
  • Antiviral - fennel, mint, geranium, lemon balm.

Essential oils have anti-inflammatory, disinfecting, regenerating properties, which help in relieving the symptoms of colds, acute respiratory infections and acute respiratory viral infections. Various mixtures of essential oils effectively influence the healing processes.

Aromatherapy rules

  1. Before using esters, it is recommended to consult a doctor, especially this rule applies to people suffering from certain diseases, pregnant women and children, since many oils are contraindicated in these cases for use.
  2. The dosage of oil should be strictly observed, do not exceed the permissible rate.
  3. For children under the age of 3, it is better not to do procedures with essential oils at all.
  4. Before an aromatherapy session, you need to check the individual reaction of the body by dropping a little oil on the bend of the elbow or the inner side of the wrist. If there are no rashes, headaches, choking, or other discomfort, you can use oil.
  5. To be taken orally only in dissolved form with honey, jam.
  6. Purchase and use high quality essential oils, check the expiration date.
  7. For most procedures, you should mix essential oils with base oils.

To speed up the restoration of immunity, it is important not only to know which essential oils help with colds, but also to have sufficient information regarding the methods of treatment using aromatherapy.

Inhalation - a special inhaler is convenient for such procedures, or you can add a few drops (up to 4) of a certain essential oil to a container with sufficiently hot water, bend over the steam, cover your head with a towel and inhale the healing aroma.

Aroma inhalation rules:

  • time period - up to 5-7 minutes;
  • up to 3 times a day no more than 7 days;
  • one procedure - before going to bed;
  • after such aromatherapy, do not eat food for 60 minutes.

Inhalation oil mix recipes

1 drop of essential oil:

  • pine and lavender;
  • eucalyptus and tea tree;
  • rosemary and thyme;
  • lavender and eucalyptus;
  • eucalyptus and thyme;

2 drops of essential oil:

  • eucalyptus, lavender, tea tree;
  • mint, sage, eucalyptus, tea tree;
  • rosemary, mint, lavender, eucalyptus.


Rubbing - 2 tbsp. tablespoons of base oil (olive, and, avocado, jojoba) and 20 drops of a certain essential oil should be well mixed, apply with massaging movements on the skin.

The aroma lamp helps to relieve the symptoms of colds, is an excellent preventive measure. The most effective blend of lavender, mint and eucalyptus oils.

Aromatic bath helps not only improve the patient's condition, but also remove toxins. Before using an essential oil for such a procedure, you must definitely combine it with an emulsifying agent (sea salt, milk, honey, glycerin).

Recipes for aromatherapy in the bathroom:

* fortifying

  • 3 k. each thyme, eucalyptus;
  • 1 j. Tea tree oil;
  • 1 tbsp. a spoonful of honey;

* antiviral

  • 3 k. rosemary, tea tree;
  • 1 k. Lemon;
  • 1 tbsp. a spoonful of milk;

* to fight colds

  • 200 grams of bath salt;
  • 4 drops of eucalyptus, thyme, rosemary oils.

For oral administration, mix one drop of essential oil with 1 tablespoon of jam, honey.

Aromatherapy is a wonderful remedy for treating cold symptoms. The use of essential oils is beneficial for the body due to their naturalness, availability and safety with a competent approach to use.


If you have a cold or flu, it is better to immediately consult a specialist. But there are also alternative treatments. For example, using essential oils. It has long been known that these substances not only smell good, but also have beneficial properties.

Effects of essential oils for colds and flu

With the help of aromatherapy, you can fight not only bacterial, but also viral diseases. All essential oils help boost immunity. In addition, aromatherapy is an excellent prevention of flu and colds. Each ether has unique properties:

  • tea tree, thyme, clove, sage, rosemary and cinnamon - antiseptic;
  • geranium, mint, fennel, lemon balm and ylang-ylang - antiviral;
  • chamomile, tea tree, thyme, eucalyptus, pine, cedar, spruce, myrtle, ginger, juniper, verbena, geranium and hyssop - antibacterial;
  • tea tree, sage, cloves, juniper, pine, chamomile, myrtle, thyme, oregano, incense and grapefruit - anti-inflammatory;
  • tea tree, sage, eucalyptus, ylang-ylang, cedar, juniper, rose, chamomile, pine, lavender, hyssop, grapefruit and frankincense - immunostimulating;
  • lavender, anise, rose, geranium, sandalwood, fennel and incense - fortifying;
  • lavender, tea tree, eucalyptus, chamomile, mint, lemon balm, lemon and bergamot - antipyretic and diaphoretic.

There are many essential oils that can help with colds and flu

Essential oils act very quickly for colds and flu. The active substances found in fragrant substances penetrate deep into the cells and destroy the source of the disease. It becomes easier for a person after the first procedure: inhalation, aroma baths or rubbing.

Essential oils for colds and flu

Care must be taken when choosing essential oils to treat colds and flu. Some substances are more suitable for a cold, others for a cough.

Video: aromatherapy against bacteria

With a runny nose

Esters can destroy viruses and bacteria in the respiratory tract, so inflammation is rapidly reduced and air moves more freely along the nasal passages. The most effective oils for a cold are:

  1. Eucalyptus. The oil of this plant effectively relieves inflammation, quickly regenerates tissues and lowers body temperature. In addition, eucalyptus ester can reduce headaches.

    Eucalyptus oil quickly lowers body temperature

  2. Camphor. It has a pronounced antiviral, wound-healing and antiseptic effect. Do not allow camphor oil to get on the mucous tissue.
  3. Tea tree. The oil from this plant relieves inflammation and effectively fights off pathogenic microorganisms. You will feel relief after the first use.

    Tea tree oil can provide significant relief from colds

  4. Fir, thuja and pine. Esters of these plants quickly relieve pain, help strengthen the immune system, and also normalize the microflora of mucous tissue.

    Fir oil helps to strengthen the immune system

Video: essential oils for the common cold

When coughing

Eucalyptus, tea tree and lavender oils are considered to be the most effective aromatic remedies for coughs. All of them have a pronounced expectorant effect, making the disease easier and faster.

Lavender oil will quickly relieve coughs

The use of essential oils for colds and flu

There are many ways to use esters to fight colds and flu. The main ones are:

  • inhalation;
  • rubbing;
  • aroma baths.

Inhalation

Inhalation is used for both colds and flu. But the procedure is especially effective for sore throat.

  1. Take water (1 L), boil it.
  2. Add three drops of lavender ether, the same amount of bergamot and eucalyptus oil to the container.
  3. Lower your head above the water and inhale deeply for 10 minutes. It is advisable to cover yourself with a towel so that the active substances do not volatilize, but fall directly into your respiratory tract.

Inhalation can be done several times a day until complete recovery. At the same time, there may be other mixtures of oils, but the proposed one is the most effective.

Inhalation is one of the easiest and most reliable ways to fight colds.

Rubbing

For massage, you need 15 ml of base oil: coconut, almond or olive.

  1. Heat it slightly in a water bath.
  2. Then add five drops of ether to the base oil. You can also use mixtures.
  3. Slowly rub the resulting substance into the chest, back and neck area. At the end of the procedure, stretch your heels.
  4. Then wrap yourself up in a warm blanket and rest for half an hour.

These treatments are equally effective for colds and flu. Rubbing can be done once a day until complete recovery, preferably at bedtime.

Rubbing (or massage) is not only a pleasant, but also a beneficial procedure

Aromavanna

Aroma baths are very effective for colds. Before the procedure, it is necessary to combine essential oils with milk or heavy cream (50-100 ml). This is to ensure that the active substances do not evaporate during the bath. The water temperature should not exceed 38 ° C, otherwise the properties of the oils will not be fully revealed. The procedure takes 15 minutes. It is necessary to take a bath once a day until complete recovery. In this case, your body temperature should be normal. With increased water procedures are contraindicated.

Aroma bath is an incredibly pleasant procedure that will help you get rid of a cold.

Oil mixtures

There are various blends of oils for fighting the flu and colds. All of them can be used for inhalation, aromatherapy and rubbing. The compositions of the most effective mixtures are as follows:

  • three drops each of eucalyptus and tea tree oil;
  • 2 ml each of rosemary and thyme ether;
  • two drops of lavender and eucalyptus oil;
  • 3 ml of eucalyptus and thyme ether;
  • 2 drops of pine oil, 1 ml of lavender ether;
  • 2 drops of tea tree oil, lavender and eucalyptus;
  • one drop of thyme, mint, eucalyptus and clove ether;
  • oil of tea tree, thyme, lemon and clove in a ratio of 2: 2: 3: 1;
  • esters of lavender, chamomile and eucalyptus in a ratio of 5: 5: 8;
  • esters of tea tree, eucalyptus and lavender in a ratio of 4: 3: 3;
  • 5 drops of eucalyptus, pine, thyme, rosemary and lemon oil.

Preventive measures

With the help of essential oils, you can not only treat colds, but also prevent them. To do this, you need to periodically light the aroma lamp in the room. You can use your favorite ether in pure form or use mixtures. An aroma lamp every two days is the best prevention of colds and flu. Do not forget to dissolve the oils in water beforehand, otherwise they will simply burn in the device.

The aroma lamp not only creates a pleasant smell in the room, but is also an excellent prevention of colds and flu.

Inhalation and rubbing are serious measures that will be helpful at the first sign of illness. But aromatherapy baths can be done several times a week to prevent the occurrence of flu and colds.

Essential oils for colds in children

The child's body is especially susceptible to chemicals. That is why it is not recommended to treat children in the traditional way: with pills, ointments, etc. Better to use natural esters. For children under one year old, oils are recommended:

  • lavender;
  • tea tree;
  • chamomile.

Aroma bath and massage are ideal. To rub, take a tablespoon of a base oil (almond, coconut, or olive) and a drop of your chosen ester. For a bath, dissolve the latter in a spoonful of milk. The water should not be too hot, 37 ° C will be enough. You can also scent rooms. To do this, dissolve one drop of ether in a liter of water. Use a spray bottle to spray the fragrance all over the room.

When a child is sick, first try to treat him with natural essential oils.

  • lavender;
  • myrtle;
  • chamomile;
  • tea tree;
  • orange;
  • eucalyptus;
  • tangerine;
  • thyme.

This time, you can use up to three drops of ether per tablespoon of base.

For older children (from six to twelve years old), it is recommended to use the same oils as for younger ones. But in this case, five drops of ether will be needed for massage and bath.

Also, children can be inhaled. One of the most effective oil blends for this looks like this:

  • one drop of chamomile and thyme;
  • two drops of tea tree and tangerine.

Contraindications

A contraindication to the use of essential oils is individual intolerance.

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