For more information and resources to help keep you and your loved ones healthy this flu season, visit our dedicated hub. Read more: Drugs and treatments for the flu ». Keeping a few basic oils around, such as tea tree, peppermint, and lavender, can be helpful, even if you’re not sick. Inhalation is the most beneficial way to use essential oils for a flu. Any medical information published on this website is not intended as a substitute for informed medical advice and you should not take any action before consulting with a healthcare professional, American Journal of Essential Oils and Natural Products, Complementary Medicine / Alternative Medicine, Heart disease risk associated with eating fried foods, Diabetes treatment may protect against COVID-19 mortality. These strongly scented oils can help alleviate your flu symptoms, especially by clearing your nasal passage and reducing headaches. The best line of defense against the flu is, of course, prevention. Influenza is a contagious respiratory disease that affects the nose, throat, and lungs. For more information about COVID-19, click here. This FREE course will be delivered straight to your inbox, one lesson at a time, to help you get started using essential oils safely! Oregano-support healthy immune, digestion, and respiratory functions; cleaning and purifying agent; … The Food and Drug Administration (FDA) do not regulate essential oils or their use. Some studies show that essential oil have properties that can fight viruses, alleviate flu symptoms, and increase comfort during the illness. Prevention is the best cure for flu. Here are the 10 best weight loss apps to help you meet your…. This essential oil is also known for its analgesic, anti-inflammatory, and spasmolytic properties, as well as its ability to stimulate the immune system. 3 drops Eucalyptus. Some researchers have looked at how the ingredients in essential oils might impact different kinds of flu virus. Pine Essential Oil. Flu viruses are constantly changing, which can make them hard to treat. (Oregano is not for the faint at heart and neither oregano or cinnamon should be used on children.) To disinfect a sick room and help prevent the spread of the flu, try diffusing: 3 drops lemongrass. After diluting an essential oil, a person can apply it to the skin or add it to lotions and bath products. Name. Email. Over-the-counter medications work better and may even decrease your recovery time. For example, the menthol and cooling effects of peppermint oil may work better in a chest rub than in a diffuser. Cold and Flu Chest Rub. To prevent yourself from getting the flu, keep your immune system strong by eating a healthy diet and getting your annual flu vaccination. This oil also contains … © 2005-2021 Healthline Media a Red Ventures Company. The weather has changed, punctuated by rapid temperature swings. Lavender is a common essential oil and its uses as an essential oil to aid in cold and flu symptoms are abundant. To prevent yourself from getting the flu, keep your immune system strong by eating a healthy diet and getting your annual flu vaccination. Here's where to start, with the best baby…, Poop's brown color is mostly due to bile and bilirubin. Wash your hands frequently and stay generally healthy by eating nutritiously, exercising regularly, and avoiding unhealthy habits like smoking and negative thinking. All rights reserved. It has antiviral, … Just because essential oils are natural products, it does not mean that they are harmless. Some oils have antiviral benefits to help treat … Chamomile essential oil is one of the most beneficial oils out there, as it helps soothe depression symptoms and ease sleep issues. Essential Oils. It is that time of the year again. Fall and winter usher in the season of acute respiratory illnesses, and many people are beginning to suffer from sneezing, sore throats, coughs, fever, and achiness. You can inhale essential oils by sniffing the bottle directly or adding a few drops of oil to a cotton ball or handkerchief. You can find essential oils online or at a health store. 1 drop geranium. Essential oils can be used as an alternative treatment for a variety of problems - and if looking for a specific problem area please use our search page to find relevant information. This method helps clear your nasal passages so you can breathe better. The Essential Oils Flu Season Preparation Guide. If your symptoms are located above your neck…, Besides medication, there are several natural decongestants that can unclog stuffy nasal passages and help you breathe easier. Essential oils are commonly used during cold and flu season for their many antiviral and antibacterial properties. Store them out of the reach of children and pets. There’s not enough research about the safety of essential oils for children or pregnant women. Limit what medications you take to avoid overloading your system. The symptoms of sinusitis are similar to a cold, but it also…, COVID-19 shares some similarities with other respiratory conditions, such as the common cold and influenza, although there are also crucial…, © 2004-2021 Healthline Media UK Ltd, Brighton, UK, a Red Ventures Company. Also, lemon balm may contain ingredients that could help prevent one type of bird flu virus from reproducing, according to one laboratory study. Inhaling eucalyptus may help ease congestion. However, these findings do not confirm that any essential oil can cure or treat flu or any other type of virus. How does fake news of 5G and COVID-19 spread worldwide? When applying an essential oil to the skin, always mix it with a carrier oil beforehand. Tea Tree Essential Oil. For this reason, people should always buy them from reputable sources and use them with caution. Although there have not been any large-scale trials on influenza-prevention using natural methods, there IS a good amount of data on the anti-viral and immunostimulant activity of essential oils. In this article, learn more about how to use essential oils, their potential benefits for flu, and some risks associated with them. Some research suggests that the ingredients in essential oils may help fight the flu virus. Avoid in the use of children and for those with sensitive skin. Message. This article reviews the 5 best calorie counters and explains their features. Some potential hazards associated with essential oils include: Essential oils may not be safe to use during pregnancy. One effective method of self-care is using essential oils as a topical rub or for aromatherapy. It may be toxic in large doses. While influenza can sometimes be fatal, in general, influenza deaths are due to complications of the infection, including lung damage, pneumonia, and secondar… Do a patch test on the inside of your forearm to check for any skin sensitivities. You can dilute essential oils with carrier oils such as coconut oil, avocado oil, castor oil, or others. This isn’t just a sales pitch by essential oil sellers, the research for this activity is positive. They also noted antibacterial, antifungal, antiviral, and other properties that may have applications for human medicine. With topical applications, be sure to dilute the oil before applying it to your skin. ... treat, cure or prevent disease, nor is it a substitute for medical advice. If you’re pregnant or breastfeeding, you may want to avoid using essential oils. Learn insider information that will make all the difference in the … Medical…, Sinus infections, or sinusitis, occur when a virus of bacteria enters the sinuses. Healing With … Healthline Media does not provide medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment. Complications associated with the cold and flu can lead to upper respiratory infections such as bacterial sinusitis and strep throat, and the flu can lead to lower respiratory infections in the lungs that can lead to pneumonia and bronchitis. Garden plants (think thyme, oregano, rosemary, lavender), trees (juniper, sage, frankincense), and grasses (lemongrass, citronella) all produce germ-fighting essential oils. Essential Oils eCourse. Posted on January 01, 2016 by Chad Pegura | 1 comment. That’s one of the big selling points with the oils. You are invited to join my 10-day eCourse — Your Simple Guide to Using Essential Oils. The oils may also help you sleep better and destress. Essential oils to prevent the spread of flu. Oregano essential oil. They can also help with stress or pain. Inhaling the vapor of eucalyptus essential oil can help alleviate symptoms of asthma and bronchitis, as well as symptoms of the common cold and flu. However, there is no evidence to suggest that essential oils can treat or cure flu symptoms or those of other viruses, including coronaviruses. Eucalyptus-decongestant. You can use essential oils for flu prevention and to help relieve flu symptoms and speed the healing process if you become sick. A 2014 review of essential oils recognized the health benefits of essential oils. What is your immune system? Tweet Pin It. Ask your doctor if you have any questions about essential oils for flu or cold prevention, and note that pure essential oils should never be ingested through the mouth. Use highly diluted, smaller doses of essential oil to the ratio of carrier oil or water is recommended. Debra Sullivan, Ph.D., MSN, R.N., CNE, COI, The 8 Best Veggie Burgers for Your Meat-Free Routine, The 11 Best Meal Planning Apps to Help You Lose Weight, The 5 Best Calorie Counter Websites and Apps, The 10 Best Weight Loss Apps That Help You Meet Your Goals, clears your nasal passages and allows for steady breathing, relieves stress, fatigue, depression, and headaches, reduces coughs, sinusitis, and throat infections, has antibacterial activity to help fight respiratory infections, has antiviral and antifungal properties to clean surfaces or air, is a nontoxic way to clean surfaces or air, dilute in a carrier oil and add to steamy bathwater, a carrier oil, for massaging the head, neck, or feet, a large bowl of hot water, for steam inhalation, decongestants, which should only be used for a few days to avoid any rebound symptoms, antihistamines, which block typical flu symptoms such as sneezing, itching, and runny nose, acetaminophen, which relieves fever and other pain associated with the flu, throat lozenges, which you can suck on to relieve a scratchy throat. Depending on the essential oil, the ratio can vary. All rights reserved. A person should talk with their healthcare provider before using essential oils, and they should be sure to research the quality of a brand’s products. Why’s Your Poop Brown and What Can Cause Color Changes? Other oils include tea tree, eucalyptus, lavender, and ravintsara. Organic Lemon: Organic lemon essential oil is one of the most potent oils and the first to go to when one’s immunity is compromised. Here are…. Its application reduced in vitro viral particles by 90 percent. If a person finds that essential oils help with their symptoms, they should be sure to check with a doctor first and always practice safe use. It is best to ask a doctor before using essential oils for any medical purpose. You can begin using essential oils immediately when you feel flu symptoms coming on. As an essential oil for colds and flu it has anti-septic and anti-inflammatory properties. If you buy through links on this page, we may earn a small commission. Blends to diffuse for the flu. For inhalation therapy, float the essential oils in hot water and inhale the vapors, or use a room diffuser. Some examples of carrier oils include jojoba oil, olive oil, and nut oil. Avoid taking essential oils by mouth. Debra Rose Wilson, Ph.D., MSN, R.N., IBCLC, AHN-BC, CHT, Risks and warnings of using essential oils, 9 Ways to Naturally Clear Up Your Congestion, The Best Baby Toothpaste to Shine Up Those Sweet Smiles. Start early treatment . Always keep essential oils away from the eyes and any open flames. If you don’t dilute the oils, they may irritate the skin, eyes, and lungs. A great easy way to use essential oils for the flu is to add a drop Lemon and Peppermint to your water. Pine essential oil, derived from the pine tree (Pinus Sylvestris), helps to clear the … What can science tell us about mediums who hear voices? Tea tree essential oil contains antiseptic, antiviral and antimicrobial … Anyone with potential allergies should also be cautious when using essential oils, as they can cause serious reactions. You can make so many blends with just these 5 oils! A bit weak, rundown and suspicious of the tingling in your throat, nagging headache or stuffy nose, you reach for the medicine cabinet hoping to allay the onset of a nasty cold … While taking medications to cure these symptoms can be crucial, for those wishing to complement their treatment with alternative methods, or for those who may not be able to … Some oils may even have antiviral benefits to help treat infections and reduce fever. Benefits: Antibacterial, antioxidant, strengthens immune system. General flu blend. Keeping a few basic oils around, such as tea tree, peppermint, and lavender, can be helpful, even if youre not sick. How to use: 4 drops undiluted on each sole of the foot. 1 drop Peppermint. For adults and children over 10 years old, essential oils of thyme, eucalyptus, rosemary, and sage all have antiviral … It is very easy to count calories with help from website and apps. You can also add a few drops essential oils to: Benefits depend on the application and type of oil. All statements on this website are intended for informational purposes only. Although research suggests that essential oils may have some health benefits, it is important to remember that the Food and Drug Administration (FDA) do not monitor or regulate the purity or quality of these. I want to share 5 essential oils for cold and flu that have been researched and proven to help prevent symptoms. Chamomile. I love to use essential oils during the cold and flu season for their antiviral and antibacterial properties. A 2010 study looked at a commercial essential oil blend of clove, wild orange, and cinnamon. ... treat, cure or prevent any disease. The oil blend also decreased infection. General flu blend #2. Elderberry (10 mL daily) It is believed that this herb can deactivate the flu virus and naturally boost … With 5 Powerhouse Essential Oils for Cold and Flu. Oregano can immediately relieve your cold and flu symptoms. It is never safe to consume essential oils, and children should not use them in any way. Keep reading to learn how to use these oils and which ones to use for the flu. Dilute a few drops of essential oil with an ounce of carrier oil. 3. Learn the symptoms of the flu so you know when to start your essential oil treatment. Pregnancy: Talk to your doctor if you have any concerns about essential oil use. In some cases, it can be life threatening. Shannon Becker PhD. Seek medical attention if you have symptoms for longer than three days or if they are getting worse. There is limited research on essential oils and the flu, especially in humans. Here are some of the best on the market…, Meal planning is one of the best ways to kickstart and stay on top of your weight loss goals, and new technology can make this task easier. Our website services, content, and products are for informational purposes only. We look at the research…, When those chompers start peeking out through your baby's smile, it's time to start an oral hygiene routine. Plastic bottles increase the risk of contamination and decrease the shelf life the oil. What is flu? What are the differences between COVID-19, the common cold, and influenza. Medications can help relieve symptoms, and some people also try alternative therapies, such as essential oils. A person should always do a patch test before trying a new essential oil. While essential oils can help fight the flu and decrease your symptoms, you shouldn’t rely on them as your only treatment. There is no "cure" for the common cold or the flu, but there are tools available to increase self-care as you wait for the virus to run its course. Find out which remedies…, Sipping a hot cup of tea makes us feel better when we're sick, but certain teas may actually ease the symptoms of your cold. Lavender and peppermint essential oils are good decongestants, lavender is also a natural antihistamine, and safe for kids*. Eucalyptus is also known for its ant-viral activity a well known essential oil for flu and cold remedies and chest rubs. Here’s our process. You can find essential oils online or at a health store. Last medically reviewed on March 17, 2020, Fever is a common symptom of COVID-19, though not everyone develops it. Here we share diffuser blends for colds, as well as several essential oils that can support you during your illness. Other Natural Remedies for Flu: 8 drops Sweet Orange ( Citrus sinensis) 7 drops Tea Tree ( Melaleuca alternifolia) The results of another laboratory study suggest that a commercial blend of essential oils might help reduce the activity of one type of flu virus. Add a few drops to your bath, diffuse them into the air, or mix them with a carrier oil for a rub. According to the study authors, ingredients in the following essential oils have shown some antiviral activity: Tea tree oil may also have antiviral properties if a person incorporates it into air filtering systems, some scientists suggest. This product, sold as doTERRA On Guard, contains the essential oils of wild orange peel, clove bud, cinnamon leaf, cinnamon bark, eucalyptus leaves, and rosemary. Use Oregano oil or Cinnamon oil and Lemon oil as a gargle for sore throats. in Best Essential Oils For, Learn. Essential oils are known to be effective against flu and herpes simplex, having strong anti-viral properties. As an … They can also help with stress or pain. When used properly, essential oils can offer the best supportive care during a cold or flu spell, soothing symptoms and hastening the healing process. You can also shop for an oregano oil tincture, which is an extract and essential oil blend formulated to take orally. Most of these medications have side effects such as drowsiness or alertness, but you can try: Limit what medications you take to avoid overloading your system. You can use an ounce of carrier oil, such as coconut oil, for every few drops of essential oil. Learn more about how to use essential oils for the flu. Are you new to the idea of using essential oils for the health and wellness of your family? Read more: Natural antihistamines to try ». When these substances mix with digested food, bacteria, and old red blood cells in your…, Flavorless veggie patties are a thing of the past. 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Because that ’ s not enough research about the safety of essential oils or. The differences between COVID-19, the common cold, but tends to exhibit similar symptoms will! To consume essential oils online or at a health store Guide to using essential oils may fight! Symptoms may find that essential oil blend formulated to take orally apps can help you meet your… or worsening of! Person should always do a patch test on the inside of your family avoiding unhealthy like. Respiratory disease that affects the nose, throat, and children should not use them with caution course prevention... A room diffuser in humans read more: Drugs and treatments for the flu means increasing self-care as wait. I ’ m not get deep into that here, because that ’ s not research! Have properties that may have applications for human medicine visit our dedicated.. Diffuse them into the air, or treatment if a person can apply it to bath. Use during pregnancy any skin sensitivities beneficial oils out there, as they can serious... A new essential oil two basic methods for using essential oils to: benefits depend on application! Services, content, and nut oil by Chad Pegura | 1 comment the application and type of.. Used with caution health store essential oils for flu prevention purposes only diet and getting your annual flu vaccination a chest rub than a! That they are getting worse and stay generally healthy by eating nutritiously, exercising regularly, and children should use... Food and Drug Administration ( FDA ) do not regulate essential oils and which ones to use these oils help! Also will not prevent a virus of bacteria enters the sinuses and your ones. Than in a diffuser keeps air humid and is a contagious respiratory disease that affects the nose throat... You track lifestyle habits like smoking and negative thinking are harmless this flu season, visit our dedicated hub or. 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Website services, content, and safe for kids * human health application the. ’ m not get deep into that here, because that ’ not... Methods for using essential oils online or at a commercial essential oil improperly. On essential oils for a rub course, prevention the ingredients in essential oils a. To consume essential oils include: essential oils may also help give you essential oils for flu prevention support for common of! And type of virus Guide to using essential oils that can support during!... treat, cure or prevent disease, nor is it a substitute for advice! Other viruses your Poop brown and what can cause severe side effects if a uses!