Aromatherapy can help to treat common winter illnesses such as colds, coughs, influenza, and dry and cracked skin. Winter is a time when many common illnesses occur, although common winter illnesses are not usually serious, they can cause symptoms that leave you feeling exhausted and drained of energy. Many essential oils possess the therapeutic properties necessary to bring the body back to full health this winter.
Essential Oils for Common Colds
Many essential oils possess the bactericidal and anti-viral properties needed to combat the symptoms of the common cold. Some essential oils help the body to stimulate its own defense mechanism and prevent further infection. Useful essential oils that can be used in the practice of aromatherapy to fight the symptoms of the common cold include:
- lavender (Lavandula angustifolia)
- tea tree (Melaleuca alternifolia)
- lemon (Citrus limon)
- rosemary (Rosmarinus officinalis)
Essential Oils for Coughs
Coughs often accompany colds, but can also be an uncomfortable symptom associated with many respiratory infections. Essential oils that are bactericidal, anti-catarrhic, and antiseptic can be used in aromatherapy to help to control the symptoms associated with coughs.
Suitable essential oils that can be used to treat coughs include:
- lavender (Lavandula angustifolia)
- thyme (Thymus vulgaris)
- marjoram (Origanum marjorana)
- Eucalyptus (Eucalyptus globulus, Eucalyptus smithii)
Essential Oils for the Flu
Common colds and other viral infections are often referred to as influenza when in reality influenza is often more serious in its effects; however, bactericidal, anti-viral, and antiseptic essential oils may help with some of the symptoms of influenza. Consult a qualified professional for the more serious symptoms of influenza.
These essential oils include:
- tea tree (Melaleuca alternifolia)
- Lavender (Lavandula angustifolia)
- clove (Eugenia caryophyllus)
Essential Oils for Dry Skin
Dry and cracked skin may be caused by a number of health problems, but it is a symptom of cold, winter winds too. Dry skin needs to be moisturized to prevent soreness and the possible infection of cracked skin, if left untreated. Essential oils that are moisturizing and soothing are suitable in aromatherapy for the treatment of dry skin.
These essential oils include:
- rose (Rosa damascena)
- geranium (Pelargonium graveolens)
- lavender (Lavandula angustifolia)
- neroli (Citrus aurantium var. amara)
- Tea tree (Melaleuca alternifolia) essential oil is suitable to treat an infection of cracked skin.
How to use Essential Oils
Essential oils can be used in a number of ways in the practice of aromatherapy. In general, essential oils should be diluted in a carrier oil or lotion base before applying them to the skin. Steam inhalation of essential oils is an effective method for treating respiratory complaints. This can be done with a steaming bowl of water or in a hot bath. In addition, add a drop of the chosen essential oil to a tissue and inhale.
Contraindications of aromatherapy
Some essential oils carry contraindications for use, depending on the health problem and the circumstances of the individual. These include pregnancy, blood pressure, elderly, and use with children. Make sure that you are aware of any contraindications associated with a particular essential oil before using it. In addition, use only the quantity specified for treatment.
You can also consult a qualified professional for further advice on the use of aromatherapy to treat common illnesses.
I would love to try aromatherapy. I get very dry skin in the winter time
Very informative article. There are so many benefits to aromatherapy. I have used oil of Eucalyptus and have found it to be quite helpful.
I use it too!