Essential Oils for Respiratory Issues

Essential oils are the essences of medicinal herbs. These oils are used to extract the medicinal quality out of the plant material and make it easily soluble for the body. Essential oils can be effective in treating issues relating to the respiratory tract. Respiratory ailments are typical in youth as well as adults. A variety of essential oils address issues of the respiratory system. When used for respiratory issues, essential oils placed in two drop increments into a bath/bowl of hot water. The oils can also be used by placing a dozen drops into a nebulizing diffuser.

Eucalyptus

• This pungent oil has a powerful vapor that when inhaled stimulates the entire respiratory system. Mucus deposits in the chest become loosened and move out of the chest area. This makes the cough more productive at expelling the mucus from the respiratory system.

Peppermint

• This cool, refreshing essential oil has a host of benefits for the respiratory system. The menthol in this plant/oil operates as an efficient expectorant (expels mucus) that offers temporary relief for sinusitis, cold, asthma, nasal congestion and bronchitis. It is for this reason that peppermint along with eucalyptus are used in many cold rubs. When an oil containing peppermint is on the chest it offers relief from nasal and respiratory problems.

Sandalwood

• One of the oldest known materials utilized for aromatic and perfumery, sandalwood has been used for at least 4,000 years. Sandalwood is used for various purposes in various societies. In Ayurvedic medicine (holistic medicine from India) sandalwood is used to treat respiratory issues. Sandalwood is used to treat coughs that are filled with mucus, sore throats and bronchitis.

Cedarwood

• Cedarwood has a "woody" almost pencil-like smell with a faint hint of sandalwood. This oil was used during the Egyptian mummification process, which is a testament to the lengthy history behind its uses. As for its uses in respiratory issues, cedarwood is an excellent expectorant.

Lemon

• Originating out of Asia, the lemon tree is known for its fruit that is vitamin rich and exploited for its aromatic qualities to neutralize odors. It is noteworthy to state that the lemon oil essence has a myriad of holistic uses. Among these uses for lemon oil is the treatment of coughs, colds and influenza symptoms.