Aromatic Beads for Cold Relief

Aromatic beads can provide cold relief. Many natural oils and resins have been used for centuries to provide relief from congestion and inflammation. Menthol ointments, for example, used to be a standard in home medicine cabinets. Aromatherapy may not cure the cold but it can offer significant relief.

Diffuse

• Candle diffuser

  "Diffusion is the process of dispersing essential oils so that their aroma fills a room or an area with the natural fragrance," according to www.AromaWeb. Diffusers can be as simple as a lamp ring or as complex as a nebulizer, which breaks essential oils into smaller molecular particles. They all have one thing in common: Getting the substance into the air so you can breathe it into your nose and chest.

Experiment

• Eucalyptus

  A link from the Student Wellness section of the University of Colorado web page lists eucalyptus as effective in breaking up congestion and reducing inflammation, providing relief from common cold symptoms. Dennis Auckley, M.D., Director of the MetroHealth's Center for Sleep Medicine says, "menthol may help. This usually comes as a topical ointment or inhalation medicine and can help relieve congestion in some individuals." Other natural oils and resins may offer relief: peppermint; camphor; menthol.

Beads and crystals

• Potpourri with a purpose

  Aromatic beads and crystals can be used in electronic diffusers and nebulizers and come in a variety of scents. They can also be placed in a bag and tied around the neck for an up close treatment. Place in bowls in your home and you have potpourri with a purpose--cold relief.

Warning

• Student Wellness warns, "Essential oil of eucalyptus can be toxic in large amounts."