Nasal congestion may be caused by a cold or hay fever, or even a developing sinus infection. The sniffling, snotting and mouth-breathing caused by nasal congestion is downright annoying. You may have disrupted sleep due to congestion, your nose may get sore from all the blowing and wiping and your head may hurt from the pressure.
All these symptoms are annoying and cause discomfort that can be alleviated with over the counter medicine. But some of us prefer to try natural remedies before resorting to pharmaceuticals for problems such as congestion.
While typically not a life threatening condition, nasal congestion is not a comfortable thing, and most people want relief as soon as possible. One reason many people prefer to use natural essential oils for congestion instead of cold medication is because they don’t want the side effects of drowsiness or irritability. Many congestion relief medications can cause thirst, constipation and some of the drugs may be harmful to internal organs. This makes using essential oils for congestion a smart and healthy first step.
What Essential Oils To Use For Congestion
Rather than purchasing Vick’s Vaporub, you can make your own vapor rub using natural essential oils to relieve congestion. Tea Tree, Eucalyptus, and Peppermint essential oils can be applied to the throat, neck and chest, even your face to help open up your stuffy nose. Not only are these oils effective due to their scent but they also have anti-inflammatory, antibacterial and analgesic properties. Applying these essential oils alone or combined and then taking a steamy shower will get things flowing quickly. Reapply every few hours to keep congestion under control.
To help you get some sleep while dealing with congestion Lavender is a great choice. Add several drops to a warm bath, then rub some into your feet and chest before bed to help you sleep great and treat your nasal congestion.
Rosemary essential oil works well for nasal congestion without the sedative properties of lavender. This makes it an ideal treatment for daytime. You’ll be able to work and concentrate without dealing with sniffling, sneezing and pressure.
Benefits of Using Essential Oils For Congestion
The main benefit to using essential oils is that you don’t have to purchase a variety of cold products for the various members of the family. Choose high quality, pure essential oils and rest assured that you can safely and naturally treat cold and sinus congestion in family members of all ages. There are no drug warnings with essential oils, although if you have hypertension and take prescription medication you should consult your physician before using some topical oils.
Not only do essential oils smell great and provide you with relief while you relax they also have the ability to kill germs, reduce irritation from nose wiping and even chapped lips. You won’t find an over the counter nasal congestion medication that offer all those benefits. If you haven’t tried essential oils for your health, it’s time to get started. Essential oils are used to treat many different health problems naturally. Start with treating your congestion then look into how essential oils can be used for coughing, sore throats, headaches, insomnia and even wound care.
Essential Oils For Congestion Recipes
Chest and Sinus Congestion Steam Recipe
- 2 drops lavender essential oil
- 2 drops tea tree essential oil
- 2 drops eucalyptus essential oil
Boil a pot of water and remove from the stove. While still steaming, add 2 drops eucalyptus, 2 drops lavender and 2 drops tea tree. Cover bowl and head with towel and inhale for at least 3 minutes. Be sure to keep yoru eyes closed! Source – essentialoilssancturary.com
Essential Oil Congestion Blend Diffuser Recipe
- 3 drops of Peppermint essential oil
- 2 drops of Eucalyptus essential oil
- 2 drops of Tea Tree essential oil
- 1 drop of Lemon essential oil
Place in your diffuser and breath easier!
Steam Inhaler Recipe
- 2 drops eucalyptus essential oil
- 2 drops Thyme essential oil
- 3 drops peppermint essential oil
- 3 drops rosemary essential oil
Natural Essential Oil Vapor Rub Recipe
This homemade vapor rub can help soothe the throat and improve breathing. It contains essential oils and other natural ingredients. Here is an easy-to-follow recipe.
- 1/2 cup virgin coconut oil
- 1/4 cup extra virgin olive oil
- 1/4 cup beeswax, grated
- 20 drops eucalyptus essential oil
- 20 drops peppermint essential oil
Directions
- Place all the oils and beeswax in a large mason jar.
- Put two inches of water in a saucepan over medium to low heat.
- Place the jar in the saucepan and allow the oils to melt, and stir to combine the oils.
- After they have combined, cool the mixture, and add the essential oils.
- Pour the mixture into metal tins, or store in containers. Allow the mixture to set.
- Use on your chest for congestion and cough relief.
Chest Congestion Massage Oil
- 4 drops eucalyptus
- 4 drops pine or rosemary
- 4 drops peppermint
- 5 tsp carrier oil (argan, coconut, sesame, sweet almond, jojoba, grapeseed, macadamia)
Pin for later!
