We’re living in times where our immunity is dangerously at stake. Yet, sadly enough, the world of pills is no longer to be trusted. On one hand, we have the fiendish pharmaceuticals, who admittedly have certain evidence problems. On another, we have “natural” supplements that don’t even go through authorized testing before they hit the markets because of the lack of regulations.
Enter essential oils. Yes, yes, we know – the idea that inhaling or ingesting a wonderfully scented oil can cure an ailment can be a little hard to believe. But if you think about it, most prescription medicines are really modeled after plant-derived essential oils. So by turning to these wonderfully scented oils, you are essentially opting for the most natural approach to treat your problems!
Makes sense? Now, onto a list of 5 essential oils and the ailments they can counter.
1. Lemon Oil For Flu
We’re all well aware of lemon being a cure-all for all sorts of viral and bacterial ailments, so it should come as no surprise that lemon essential oil works just as well for curing flu.
Loaded with antibacterial, antioxidant and anti-inflammatory properties, lemon oil is a great way to fend off those nasty viruses while curbing cold and flu symptoms like congestion, coughing, swollen glands, and body aches. Plus, the refreshing “citrussy” scent of lemon essential oil is great for giving your energy levels a boost, which makes it even more helpful in recovering from the fatigue one experiences during a flu attack.
How to use: Why buy a bottle when you can find the oil right in the peel of the lemon itself? Use the peels and/or the rind in your cooking if you want to ingest it. Prefer a whiff instead? Add them to a pot of boiling water and allow the steam to permeate through your room. Or, you could also inhale the steam directly, though be very careful to not bring your face too close to the pot.
Note: All citrus based oils are phototoxic. Therefore, remember to not use lemon essential oil if you’re going to be exposing yourself to sunlight right after.
2. Lavender Oil For Cough And Congestion
When it comes to curing a “phlegmy” cough and chest congestion, lavender oil is your best bet. This essential oil has the power to quickly cut through all that mucus and phlegm buildup in your sinuses and respiratory tracts, thus making it easier for you to breathe. Furthermore, lavender oil also has a soothing effect and this is very beneficial in bringing down inflammation in your swollen airways and throat.
How to use: Dab on a few drops of lavender oil on your pillow at night before you go to sleep. You could also mix it with other carrier oils like sweet almond oil or coconut oil and rub it on your chest. Doing both will help you inhale the beneficial aromatic compounds of this essential oil all night long.
3. Peppermint Oil For Headaches/Migraines
Headaches and migraines can be done away with just a few drops of peppermint oil. The menthol contained in this natural oil is very useful in relaxing tense muscles and easing pain and soreness. While there is an absence of high-quality studies to confirm the efficacy of peppermint oil, researchers are of the opinion that the oil helps boost blood circulation in the body and opens up sinuses to promote better oxygen flow to your brain.
How to use: Peppermint oil can be too strong a scent for many people. This is why it helps to mix it with a carrier oil like coconut oil, and then massage it directly onto the temples.
4. Ginger Oil For Gastrointestinal Ailments
Ginger has long been used as a natural cure for gastrointestinal distress. Ginger essential oil is extracted from the root, and thus, contains the same antibacterial and anti-inflammatory properties that the root is popularly recognized for.1 2 For this reason, ginger oil is excellent at inhibiting stomach acid production and suppressing the H.pylori bacteria that is notorious for causing stomach ulcers.
Ginger oil is also very helpful in bringing relief from other problems that are linked to gastrointestinal issues such as cramps, bloating, and even heartburn.
How to use: Brew a cup of your favorite herbal tea and add in about 2-4 drops of pure ginger essential oil. Drink this at least 20 minutes before your meals to boost digestion.
5. Roman Chamomile Oil For Skin Rashes
Roman Chamomile is one of the best essential oils for treating inflamed, sore, or itchy skin. Being both antispasmodic and gentle in nature, this oil has the ability to reduce nervous spasms of the affected skin tissue while soothing skin irritation.
Chamomile also has strong anti-inflammatory properties that bring down inflammation and pain by boosting blood circulation to that part of the skin.
How to use: Mix a few drops of chamomile essential oil with a carrier oil; sweet almond and coconut work best. Massage this gently into the affected areas of your skin for instant relief.
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