With all of the viruses and ailments circulating this winter, it’s no wonder people are searching for the best essential oils for colds and flu. Cooler months bring a unique set of health challenges. When this time of year sets in, I like to use essential oils as part of my first line of defence.

Along with the common cold, the flu and other respiratory conditions typically comes a cough that keeps you up at night and limits your ability to breathe with ease. Although so many people suffer from a cough every year, many aren’t aware of the natural remedies that are truly effective. There are several essential oils for cough that have antispasmodic, expectorant, antiviral and antibacterial properties. These essential oils for cough are effective in two ways — they help to address the cause of your cough by killing toxins, viruses or bacteria that are causing the problem, and they work to relieve your cough by loosening your mucus, relaxing the muscles of your respiratory system and allowing more oxygen to get into your lungs. You can use one of these essential oils for cough or a combination of these oils.

Here is a list of very effective essential oils for the cold, flu and cough:

Eucalyptus Oil

Eucalyptus essential oil is “widely regarded for its antibacterial and antiviral qualities” and may help clear your nasal pathways. To create a mixture for inhaling this healing oil, add 10-15 drops of eucalyptus oil to a bowl of boiling water.

Peppermint Oil

Congestion. Inhale directly from the bottle or use the oil in a cold air diffuser or humidifier to decongest the sinuses. Another way to relieve sinus congestion is to place a drop on the tongue and inhale. You can reduce chest congestion by putting two or three drops on a warm damp cloth and placing it on the chest.

Rosemary Oil

Rosemary essential oil is good for relieving cold and flu symptoms because of it is a warming oil, reduces aches and pains, aids in circulation, and relieves nausea. Do not use this oil during pregnancy.

Lemon Oil

Lemon oil contains powerful antioxidants and helps to reduce inflammation, fight bacteria.

Oregano Oil

 Oregano oil in treating fevers and respiratory symptoms, which are both associated with the flu.

Tea Tree Oil

Tea tree oil can inhibit the growth of bad bacteria that cause sinus infections and respiratory issues. Crushed tea tree leaves have been inhaled by Australian Aborigines to treat coughs and colds, and inhaling tea tree oil may also help to ease the effects of a cough.

Thyme Oil

Thyme oil is approved by Germany’s Commission E in the treatment of bronchitis, whooping cough, and upper respiratory inflammation.

The best way to use an essential oils is to diffuse 5 drops in to the home diffuser, especially right before bed time. I switch on oil diffuser every day during the autumn and winter, especially when heating is on. It helps to moisture the air and prevent throat irritation.

 

These essential oils can also be applied topically to your chest and neck to reduce cough severity. I call it homemade Vapor Rub. That is made with olive oil, coconut oil, beeswax as a carrier base, just add 3-5 drops of you favourite essential oil.

 

Keep in mind, essential oils should not be used topically on children under the age of 2 and when it’s being used on children, do a patch test first to make sure they don’t experience adverse skin reactions.

 

I hope you have not got bored reading my article.:) Have a lovely weekend and look after yourself!