The flu, also known as influenza, is a highly contagious respiratory illness that can cause various symptoms, such as fever, cough, sore throat, body aches, and fatigue. While medical treatments are available, many people turn to natural remedies, such as essential oils, to help alleviate their symptoms. Essential oils, which are highly concentrated plant extracts, have been used for centuries for their medicinal properties.
In particular, they have been shown to have antiviral properties, which can help to boost the immune system and fight off cold and flu symptoms. In this article, we will discuss best essential oils that have been found to be particularly effective in relieving flu symptoms, such as cough and sore throat.
These oils include eucalyptus, peppermint, lemon, rosemary, and tea tree. It's important to note that essential oils should always be diluted with a carrier oil before being applied to the skin, and some people may be allergic to certain essential oils.
How to use essential oils for the flu?
Using essential oils for the flu can effectively alleviate symptoms and boost the immune system. One of the most popular ways to use essential oils for cold and flu symptoms is through a diffuser, which disperses the oil into the air. The essential oils can then be inhaled, helping clear the airway and relieve coughing and congestion. Another popular method is to dilute the essential oil with a carrier oil and apply it topically to the chest, back, or bottom of the feet.
This can also help to open up the airway and provide relief from coughing. Some essential oils, such as tea tree oil, have been found to be particularly effective against viruses and bacteria, making them an excellent choice for use during the flu. Essential oils such as eucalyptus, peppermint, and lemon also have antimicrobial properties that can help fight the flu. Keep in mind that always it's important to use high-quality, pure essential oils and dilute them properly before using them.
Top Essential Oils to Help Relieve Symptoms of the Flu
Essential Oil #1: Marine Eucalyptus
Marine Eucalyptus is considered one of the best essential oils to help relieve flu symptoms. Eucalyptus oil is known for its strong decongestant properties, which can help to clear the airways and reduce coughing. The oil is also known for its antibacterial and antiviral properties, which can help to purify the air and fight off cold and flu symptoms.
Research has shown that eucalyptus oil may be particularly effective in relieving symptoms such as sneezing, runny nose, and coughing associated with the flu. The oil is often used in a diffuser or through inhalation to help clear the airways, but it can also be diluted with carrier oil and applied topically to the chest or back for added relief.
Some people also mix Marine Eucalyptus with clove oil to get the best results. It's important to note that essential oils may be effective for some people and not for others, so it's recommended to consult a healthcare professional before use.
Essential Oil #2: Toasted Orange & Birch
Toasted Orange & Birch oil is considered one of the best essential oils to help relieve flu symptoms. This oil blend is known for its ability to help ease aches and pains, as well as to provide a soothing effect on the respiratory system. Research has shown that Toasted Orange & Birch oil may be particularly effective in relieving symptoms such as coughing, sore throat, and congestion associated with the flu.
The oil is often used by adding a few drops to a diffuser or inhaling directly to help clear the airways. It can also be diluted with carrier oil and applied topically to the chest or back for added relief. Some academic research institutions have conducted peer-reviewed studies on the effectiveness of Toasted Orange & Birch oil in fighting cold or flu. However, it's important to note that essential oils may be effective for some people and not for others, so it's recommended to consult a healthcare professional before use.
Essential Oil #3: Lemon Gardenia
Lemon Gardenia oil combines two essential oils, lemon, and gardenia. Lemon essential oil is known for its refreshing and uplifting properties, while gardenia is known for its calming and soothing properties. Together, these oils make Lemon Gardenia oil a potent essential oil that can help relieve flu symptoms. Studies have shown that using essential oils, like Lemon Gardenia oil, can help reduce the severity of flu symptoms, such as a stuffy nose, cough, and sore throat.
To use Lemon Gardenia oil to relieve flu symptoms, you can add a few drops of the oil to a diffuser or vaporizer and inhale the vapors. You can also add a few drops of the oil to a bowl of hot water, cover your head with a towel, and breathe in the steam for a few minutes. This can help to open up your nasal passages and help you breathe better. However, it's important to note that using essential oils should not replace over-the-counter medication, and using too much may increase the risk of skin irritation or allergic reactions.
Conclusion
This article has discussed best essential oils that can be used to help relieve symptoms of the flu. These oils have been shown to have properties that can help reduce the severity of flu symptoms, such as a stuffy nose, cough, and sore throat. When using essential oils to relieve flu symptoms, it is important to dilute the oils with a carrier oil before applying them topically and to use a diffuser or vaporizer to inhale the vapors.
Additionally, it is important to note that using essential oils should not replace over-the-counter medication and that using too much may increase the risk of skin irritation or allergic reactions. Finally, further research should be conducted on the use of essential oils for flu treatment to understand their effectiveness and potential side effects better.
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