This article was medically reviewed by Connie Jennings, M.D., a member of the Prevention Medical Review Board, on September 12, 2019.

Before we dive into essential oils, know this: The best way to ward off a cold is to wash your hands. A lot. Often. Then again. Most doctors agree that this is the number-one way to stay healthy while people around you are wheezing and sneezing and dripping mucus. But isnt it nice to know that there are other natural ways to ward off the ickiesand that they (bonus!) smell great? Essential oils to the rescue!

Essential oils have been used by generations of people, in a multitude of cultures, as a natural preventative and treatment for a host of ailments, and that includes the common cold. "As far back as the Paleolithic period60,000 years agohumans were using plants as herbal remedies," says Yufang Lin, MD, a board-certified physician who practices at Cleveland Clinic Wellness. "Unlike pharmaceuticals, one plant often has multiple properties. Lavender, for instance, has anti-inflammatory, anti-septic, anti-anxiety and anti-depressant properties."

Like many natural remedies, there hasnt been a huge amount of research done on essential oils, since studies are (unfortunately) often driven by the marketplacebut there have been a certain number of studies on some essential oils. When it comes to using them to ward off colds and coughs and easing the discomfort they cause, keep reading for more on what's known about specific oils.

There are a few easy methods for using essential oils to help with the sniffles.

Tea Tree Oil: According to one study, this oil has been found to have antiviral properties, meaning it could help squelch the nasties that lead to sinus infections and respiratory issues. "Tea tree essential oil has also been proven to have antimicrobial and antifungal properties," says Dr. Lin. "It's one of my favorites for cold season, along with eucalyptus and lavender."

Eucalyptus Oil: Beyond its forest-y scent, eucalyptus oil has been shown to have both antiviral and antimicrobial properties. "It also reduces inflammation, suppresses cough, reduces fever, loosens up chest congestion, and is an all-around support during cold season," says Dr. Lin. Dilute it in one of the neutral oils above and rub it onto chest and throat to ease a cough, or do a steam sauna (above). If youre feverish, you can also add it to a cool compress and it may just lessen your temp.

Peppermint Oil: That minty goodness is a natural decongestant and fever reducer, due to its menthol. A small study from 2013 found that it can help the bronchial musclesand could thus ease breathing if you have a cough. (Dont use this one while pregnant.)

Chamomile Oil: A 2010 study stated that breathing in chamomile essential oil in steam may help relieve cold symptoms.

Rosemary Oil: This herb isnt just a way to spark up your roast chicken! In its essential oil form, its been found to be good at breaking up mucus and reducing inflammation.

Frankincense Oil: Its anti-inflammatory power has been shown to be useful in treating coughs and bronchitis. The scent is woodsy and rich.

Oregano Oil: This essential oil has a compound that, according to one study, is a good antimicrobial germ-fighter.

Thyme Oil: With high levels of the same helpful compound as oregano, thyme oil may help protect against viruses and bacteria.

Cinnamon Oil: 2017 research showed that cinnamon oil could ward off germs that cause respiratory problems.

A critical component of staying healthy, warding off colds, and recovering? Getting enough sleep! Here are 4 essential oils known to promote relaxation and snoozing! (Chamomile oil, above, is another one that helps on this front.)

Lavender Oil: Lavender is one of the best-studied essential oils. Research has shown that it may help you go to sleep, and may even lower your levels of the stress hormone cortisol. Less stress, easier snoozing! "Lavender is well known for its ability to lift mood and reduce anxiety," says Dr. Lin. "Who wouldnt benefit from a mood lift when sick?"

Bergamot Oil: One study showed that sniffing bergamot aroma for just 15 minutes reduced cortisol levels.

Clary Sage Oil: With a grassy, herbal scent, this oil eases stress and makes you feel sleepy. Put a drop or two on a tissue, cup it in your hands, and breathe in deeply for a couple of minutes.

Sandalwood Oil: Another rich and woodsy scent; one study found that the oil has a sedative effect and can increase REM sleep (but for some people, it increases alertness! So maybe try it before a nap first).

"Because it takes a lot of plant materials to make the essential oilfor example, it takes 250 lbs. of lavender to produce one pound of essential oilthey are considered strong medicine," says Dr. Lin. "A little goes a long way, and toxicity is possible." Start by using a minimum amount and increase as tolerated. Dr. Lin adds, "Extra caution needs to be exercised around pregnant women, children, the elderly, those with multiple medical conditions, and pets."

Like what you just read? Youll love our magazine! Go here to subscribe. Dont miss a thing by downloading Apple News here and following Prevention. Oh, and were on Instagram too.

Read the original post:
These Are the Best Essential Oils for Colds and Coughs, According to a Physician - Prevention.com

Comments are closed.