Essential Oils for Respiratory Health (2024)

Numerous studies show that certain essential oils may ease respiratory symptoms from allergies, pollution, a cough, or cold by soothing the throat, fighting bacteria, acting as a decongestant, increasing expectoration, and soothing inflamed mucous membranes.

Essential oils like eucalyptus, rosemary, and peppermint are historically known to help to clear and strengthen the respiratory tract, assisting the body in fighting off colds and other airborne diseases.

The respiratory tract has a thin, moist lining called the mucus membrane, which can become inflamed as a result of infection or allergic reactions. Swelling of the affected membrane narrows the nasal passages and makes breathing more difficult. Sometimes, secondary infections, such as sinusitis and bronchitis may also develop. Certain essential oils will help to reduce inflammation and loosen mucus; others have strong antiseptic properties that may help fight infection.Aromatherapy for Common Ailmentsby Shirley Price

The corona virus pandemic has created space for a deep dive into my herbal studies and inspirednew formulations from my apothecary -- and the plants growing in the surrounding wild lands -- with the fundamental motivating question being ---"How can I help?"

The desire to help support the collective wellness in the midst of the Covid-19 global crisis has empowered my creativity, culminating in a whole new line of holistic wellness products calledthe Immunity Collection.

Creating a new product always starts with a ton of research, but as I began compiling data for a Respiratory Support Essential Oil Blend, I realized that I needed to share this information with you in depth.

I'm not a doctor and statements made in this article haven't been reviewed or approved by the FDA, so this information should not be considered medical advice, nor is it intended to diagnose, treat, or cure any illness or disease.

This is simply my research, and it is my personal opinion that incorporating these essential oils into your wellness routine could be an ally to your health, if done so thoughtfully.

I've written it sort of like a term paper for you with supporting links to medical journals, some of my very favorite reference books on essential oils, and theimmune boosting wellness productsthat we make with these oils.

Essential oils not only smell like the plants they're made from, they're an ultra-pure, highly concentrated extract of phyto-chemicals and aroma compounds. Learn more in our articleEssential Oils vs Fragrance Oils.

There are a group of essential oils which contain therapeutic aroma compounds calledmonoterpenes, specifically 1,8-cineole, d-limonene, and alpha-pinene. Various studies show that the essential oils that contain these aroma chemicals promote respiratory health.In addition,monoterpenesare effective in treating early and advanced cancers. (Environmental Health Perspectives)

1,8-cineoleis a natural monoterpene, also known as eucalyptol. It is a major compound of many plant essential oils, mainly extracted from Eucalyptus globulus oil. As an isolated compound, 1,8-cineoleis known for its mucolytic and spasmolytic action on the respiratory tract, with proven clinical efficacy. -US National Library of Medicine.

Some of the essential oils that contain1,8 cineole are eucalyptus globulous, eucaplytus radiata, tea tree, rosemary, basil, sage, laurel, ravintsara, fragonia, saro, cajeput, niaouli, peppermint, lavender, and more.

1,8 cineole is a remarkable chemical component offering strong therapeutic properties that have been well researched. It has strong healing potential. These properties suggest that using these oils during a cold or flu would help reduce pain, mucus and headaches. They also help kill bacteria and viruses. They can reduce swelling (great for sinus infections), muscle spasms, and spastic coughing.Aromahead Institute

See Also

Frankincense Oil: King of Essential OilsPeppermint Oil: Uses, Benefits, Side Effects, and Safety Risks11 Best Essential Oil Brands in India 2022 ⋆ CashKaroHow essential oils work in our bodies

Just like any other substance you might consider to be a health supplement or natural remedy, essential oils do need to be used with caution, properly diluted, and the delivery method be thoughtfully chosen. Because we are talking about the respiratory tract, we need to remember thatundiluted essential oils are never to be used onthe mucous membranes.

Eucalyptus

Eucalyptus is one of the oldest native medicines used in Australia.It has an overall cooling effect on the body which is useful in reducing fevers. A study published in theAlternative Medicine Reviewfound that eucalyptol, the main component ofEucalyptus globulus,has antimicrobial properties and may fight off germs that cause illness.

Additionally breathing eucalyptus vapormayhelp break up mucus, reduce inflammation, relieve pain, easing headaches and muscle tension that can result from a cold or flu. Many over-the-counter vapor or chest rubs marketed to suppress coughs list eucalyptus globulus oil as an active medicinal ingredient.(US National Library of Medicine,Advanced Aromatherapyby Kurt Schnaubelt, Ph.D.,Aromatherapy for Common Ailmentsby Shirley Price)

Studies show that using a 2% dilution of eucalyptus globulous oil and water in a spray bottle will kill 70% of airborne staph bacteria.Aromatherapy - A Complete Guide to the Healing Artby Kathi Keville + Mindy Green

Find Eucalyptusglobulus in ourWarm + Spicy EO BlendandBreathe Body Oil.

Rosemary

Rosemarypromotes healthy respiratory function, especially relating to congestion caused by a cold or the flu. Rosemary is also beneficial for improving sleep quality and reducing anxiety levels. It's helpful in relieving minor pain and inflammation, especially relating to stressed out and tense muscles.

Essential oil of rosemary is noted for its strongly antiseptic and stimulating properties. It is also a gentle analgesic and regulator that helps balance body and mind... and helps to relieve headaches, migraines, and general fatigue. Antiseptic and antispasmodic; relieves coughs, colds, and flu. Used in inhalations, compresses, or massage.Aromatherapy for Common Ailmentsby Shirley Price

Findrosemary essential oil in ourWarm + Spicy EO BlendandBreathe Body Oil,Luscious Oil Cleanser, andSuper Detox Cleanser.

Peppermint

The scent of Peppermint is clean, camphorous, minty, and fresh. It's main phytochemical component is menthol whichcreates a cooling sensation when inhaled that can soothe or numb a scratchy throat when inhaled. (Essential Aromatherapyby Susan Worwood + Valerie Ann Worwood)

Essential oil of peppermint promotes overall physical and emotional wellbeing... [It is] stimulating and strengthening; uplifts the system... Antiseptic and antispasmodic; effective in reducing mucus, and relieving coughs, sinusitis, throat infections, colds, flu, asthma, and bronchitis. Used in inhalations, baths, or [topical] application.Aromatherapy for Common Ailmentsby Shirley Price

Find peppermint in ourBreathe Body Oil.

White Fir

White Firis known in European folklore for it's medicinal virtues and fragrant scent. It's traditionally used for respiratory complaints, including colds, fever, and flu, as well as muscular and rheumatic pain. Diffusingwhite fir essentialoil works to eliminate bacteria in the air throughout your home.

The antioxidants and active compounds in white fir essential oil may help to soothe respiratory infections by easing swelling (inflammation) of the main airways in the lungs. White fir is commonly found in cough and cold remedies, and also in treatments for arthritis and muscular aches and pains. (The Illustrated Encyclopedia of Essential Oilsby Julia Lawless)

White fir soothes muscle and rheumatism pain, increases poor circulation,inhibits bronchial infections, and reduces asthma and coughing. It's sometimes used for skin infections.

Fir combines the senses of being both grounded and elevated. It increases intuition, and releases energy and emotional blocks.Aromatherapy - A Complete Guide to the Healing Artby Kathi Keville + Mindy Green

Findwhite firin ourBreathe Body Oil.

Lemon

Lemon's bright, fresh, and zesty scent canbrighten a space along with it'scleansing and purifying properties. Lemon essential oil is known to reduce bacteria levels and help purify minor infections as well as reduce pain and inflammation. Lemon has a calming effect that can help dispel negative emotions, lift a cloud of depression, or ease emotional tension. (Advanced Aromatherapyby Kurt Schnaubelt, Ph.D.)

Inhale the refreshing scent to maintain health and as a supplement to conventional medical treatment. Visualize its energies strengthening the body.In case of illness, see the fragrance fighting off the infection.For wounds, visualize the aroma encouraging cell growth and the resultant healing.Magical Aromatherapy: the Power of Scentby Scott Cunningham

Findlemonin ourSanitizing Hand Spray,Springtime EO Blend,Warm + Spicy EO Blend,Super Detox Cleanser,andGolden Ray Alchemy Mist.

Frankincense

Frankincense is traditionally valued for its immune strengthening capabilities and beneficial effects on the respiratory system. It has been used to treat coughs, inflammation of the respiratory tract,excess mucus, bronchitis, and asthma. (US National Library of Medicine,Advanced Aromatherapyby Kurt Schnaubelt, Ph.D.)

Frankincense is antiseptic and anti-inflammatory to the lungs... Frankincense fortifies and soothes the spirit as it slows and deepens breathing. It is said to release past links and subconscious stress.Aromatherapy - A Complete Guide to the Healing Artby Kathi Keville + Mindy Green

Findfrankincenseessential oil in ourBreathe Body Oil,Chamomile Exquisite Cream,Blemish Soother,Strawberry Rose Vitamin Boost Elixir, andRose Garden Shea Butter.

Tea Tree

Tea Treeis your first defense against bacteria and infections. Numerous studies have shown that tea tree essential oil can inhibit the growth of the types of bacteria that cause sinus infections and respiratory issues.Tea Treehelps support a healthy immune system and soothesthe nerves. (US National Library of Medicine,Natural Home Health Care Using Essential Oilsby Daniel Penoel, MD)

Tea tree oil is an exceptionally powerful antiseptic... It has the advantage of being both hypo-allergenic and non-toxic, and it may also be effective against a range of bacterial, viral, and fungal infections... helps to fight colds and flu; alleviates sore throats, tonsillitis, and gum disease; eases bronchitis, chesty coughs, and congestion.Aromatherapy for Common Ailmentsby Shirley Price

Findtea treein ourSanitizing Hand Spray,Springtime EO Blend,Blemish Soother, andGrace Toner.

Cinnamon

Cinnamon has a warm, comforting aroma that's both grounding and restorative, and can help protect against germs that cause respiratory problems. It contains an aroma chemical called Cinamic aldehyde which has antimicrobial benefits, helping to reduce the presence of unwanted bacterial, fungi, and viruses.Cinamic aldehydeis considered a dermal irritant, so the best delivery method for using cinnamon would be a diffuser, or highly diluted and with care.Additionally, Cinnamon supports a healthy metabolism and helps the body strengthen and maintain a healthy immune system.(Medical News Today,Advanced Aromatherapyby Kurt Schnaubelt, Ph.D.)

Findcinnamonin ourWarm + Spicy EO Blendand Bohemian Spice Body Oil.

The following essential oils are also reported to be beneficial for respiratory health: ravensara, bay laurel, cardamom, thyme, lavender, pine, spruce, oregano, rose geranium, bergamot, nutmeg, hyssop, German chamomile, cypress, and melissa.

These statements have not been evaluated by the FDA. The information providedin this article, and on this website is to be considered research, and is not intended to diagnose, treat, cure, or prevent any disease.