Really Relaxing Ltd logo

Aromatherapy for Colds and Flu

Shopping Basket
Your basket has 0 items, £0.00
View Basket



Aromatherapy for Colds and Flu


Bookmark and Share

Winter is on the way and along with the cold weather; the changing seasons also bring a higher risk of colds and flu. Millions of people suffer from flu and colds during the winter months and if you are un-lucky enough to be one of these people, the symptoms of both viruses can be pretty severe and can sap away your usual energy reserves.

Whilst the common cold is more of an annoyance than anything, exposure to the flu virus, especially for vulnerable groups such as the elderly can be very dangerous. If you are vulnerable to the flu virus, you should consult a doctor and should generally get a flu jab, if these are available in your area.

Whats the difference between Colds and Flu?

Colds and flu have many shared symptoms; but these symptoms will generally be much milder if you are suffering from a cold. With flu you can also experience fevers, headaches, aches and pains and exhaustion, which are unlikely symptoms of a cold.

How can I avoid catching cold and flu

Unless you live in an oxygen bubble, it is very difficult to avoid the cold and flu virus, as both are very contagious.

A flu jab can help to prevent the flu virus, but it is not 100% effective. You may still catch the flu, although the jab should mean that you only experience a mild case.

You could also try doing the following to minimise the risks:

  • Avoid contact with the sick
  • Clean your hands regularly
  • Avoid touching your eyes, mouth and nose
  • Drink lots of water
  • Eat plenty of fruit, vegetables and garlic
  • Get plenty of fresh air
  • Use tissues when you sneeze

How can aromatherapy help?

Aromatherapy and essential oils can be used very effectively to combat the symptoms of cold and flu, especially if you catch the virus in its very early stages. This is due to the anti-infectious, antiseptic and antiviral properties in the essential oils.

I will show you a few of the ways that I have found particularly useful in the section below:

At the first sign of a cold, diffusing essential oils in an oil burner, lamp ring or diffuser can be very beneficial. Try using some of the following essential oils:

  • Chamomile
  • Eucalyptus
  • Thyme
  • Ravensara
  • Niaouli
  • Rosemary

Adding a few drops of essential oil to a tissue and inhaling from the tissue throughout the day can also be very helpful. Try adding a couple of drops of the following oils to your handkerchief or tissue:

  • Eucalyptus
  • Ravensara
  • Tea tree
  • Lavender

Steam Inhalation is also a wonderful way of using essential oils to combat the symptoms of colds and flu. The hot steam and the healing powers of the oils will work to together give you an instant lift and will work wonders to clear congestion.

To create a steam inhalation bath, fill a large bowl of water with hot water. Then add 3-4 drops of essential oil and cover your head with a towel. Close your eyes, lean over the bowl and inhale the vapours through your nose and mouth, being careful not to let the steam escape.

Choose from the following essential oils:

  • Eucalyptus
  • Tea tree
  • Chamomile
  • Thyme
  • Peppermint

At the very first signs of cold’s or flu, a warm bath with Lavender, Tea tree or Eucalyptus can be very effective. Between 5 and 8 drops of essential oils can be added to a warm bath.

A goods night’s sleep can also prove very effective in your fight against cold and flu, but if your symptoms are keeping you awake an essential oil bath could be the answer. A bath with lavender essential oil can be very effective, just before bedtime for sleep problems. Chamomile is also a good essential oil to use.

Summary

Unfortunately there is no magical cure for colds and flu, but thankfully the symptoms can be alleviated with both traditional and alternative medicines such as aromatherapy.

If you would like to purchase any of the essential oils, mentioned in this article, please visit the aromatherapy section of our website.

Thank you for reading and I hope you get well soon.
 

Recommended Products

Aromatherapy image

Aromatherapy Choose from our wide range of Aromatherapy products. Our products include Aromatherapy starter kits, essential oils, Base oils, Oil burners and lots more, to cater for all your aromatherapy needs. Prices starting from £3.95

Show Products

 

Other Articles