Are you looking for a little relief from sinus issues that cause that annoying feeling of your sinuses being congested?
Some essential oils can be used to treat the source of the problem, while others can treat the symptoms. Some essential oils contain compounds that can help ease that annoying stuffy nose, sinus pressure, and even coughing.
Next time you feel that stuffiness in your nasal passages, give one or more of these 5 essential oils a try in your diffuser.
- Eucalyptus
- Tea Tree
- Peppermint
- Thyme
- Clove
What is Eucalyptus essential oil?
This minty-scented essential oil is best known for its decongestant benefits and its ability to bring relief from sinus issues.
The aroma is camphorous, sweet, and slightly fruity.
The powerful vapors of eucalyptus oil can cut through the nasal mucus and congested airways to help you breathe easier.
This is why you will find it listed as the main ingredient in various vaper rubs and cough drops on the market.
It has a way of refreshing the mind and boosting energy levels.
The essential oil comes from the leaves of the eucalyptus tree. Eucalyptus is typically extracted through steam distillation.
There is also some research that indicates that it may block certain chemicals that can cause asthma for some people.
But please keep in mind that essential oils should never be used as a main treatment for asthma. In some people, eucalyptus can trigger asthma.
Also, eucalyptus oil can be dangerous to children.
The main compound in eucalyptus that can effectively reduce nasal dripping and treat nasal congestion is called cineole.
Studies have shown that using products containing cineole can help treat sinusitis before antibiotics are needed.
What is Tea Tree essential oil?
Tea tree oil is derived from the leaves of australian native plant Melaleuca alternifolia through steam distillation.
Inhaling tea tree oil can remove the fluids in the sinus cavity and bring you relief from sinus issues including sinus pressure.
Besides being able to clear the nasal passages, studies have shown that tea tree oil has anti-microbial properties that allow it to fight bacteria that grows in the nasal passages and has antiviral properties that may prevent congestion, coughs, and the common cold.
Keep in mind that tea tree oil is toxic if ingested, although if used as directed, tea tree oil is inexpensive and safe to use.
The aroma of tea tree oil is a little difficult to describe.
The aroma is herbaceous, woody, pungent, and camphorous. A kind of medicinal smell like eucalyptus.
Some people do not like the smell of tea tree oil when used on its own. If mixed with another oil, such as a citrus, it can be more tolerable.
What is Peppermint essential oil?
Peppermint is a hybrid cross between water mint and spearmint.
There are different varieties of peppermint, but the one most people think of is called peppermint superior (mentha piperita). This is the same species used in peppermint candy.
The essential oil is extracted through steam distillation. It takes about 600 pounds to produce 2 pounds of essential oil.
Peppermint is a powerful oil and can overpower other oils if you are creating a blend.
Peppermint essential oil has a fresh and invigorating aroma.
Some people have fantastic results using it to temporarily bring relief from sinus issues and to get rid of nasal congestion very quickly.
The menthol in peppermint oil acts like an expectorant providing quick, temporary relief from nasal congestion and sinus pain.
For some people, peppermint can overcome almost nearly any sinus blockage.
What is Thyme essential oil?
Most Thyme essential oil comes from thyme (Thymus vulgaris), a perennial herb that belongs to the mint family.
The oil is derived from steam distillation of the leaves, stems, and flowers of the plant.
Being that there are over 300 species of thyme, the aroma can vary. It can have a fresh herbaceous aroma, somewhat lemony with a touch of woodiness.
Some people say it has a hint of citrus. Some species may smell a little like oregano.
Many studies have been conducted to the benefits of thyme, including studies on its respiratory wellness and its ability to bring relief from sinus problems.
For some, thyme works like magic to dissolve sinus congestion and for treating sinus infections.
Thyme can also be used to relieve the pressure that builds up in the cavities of your sinuses.
What is Clove essential oil?
When most people think of clove oil, the first thing they think of is its ability to reduce pain associated with dental problems.
Cloves are from an evergreen tree that are native to Indonesia and Madagascar.
Three different types of oil can be derived from the tree, including clove bud oil, clove stem oil, and clove leaf oil.
Typically, its the clove bud oil, (Eugenia caryophyllata) that is the popular essential oil used in aromatherapy.
Clove bud oil has a complex aroma. It has an earthy, spicy, sweet, powerful smell. For some, it can be overpowering.
There are many claims made about the benefits of clove essential oil, but studies have been limited with inconsistent data.
But the data that has emerged is suggestive of various health benefits based on some clinical studies.
For some, clove bud oil and clove leaf oil have been used with different respiratory ailments, including sinusitis, asthma, colds, and coughs.
For some people, clove has been a magic bullet to bring relief from sinus issues.
Since its aroma is so overpowering, it is great for getting rid of unwanted smells.
DISCLAIMER:
Information provided in this description is for educational purposes only. For possible treatments of physical or mental diseases, please seek a trained and licensed health professional. Enchanted Aromatics is not responsible for any adverse affects resulting from the use of any suggestions, products, preparations, or procedures mentioned or from following historical uses of essential oils.