Did you know that there is an amazing amount of STRONG scientific evidence on how essential oils - the antibacterial, antimicrobial and antiviral potent part of a plant - can be used by us humans to help keep us healthy and germ free. And help us recover more quickly when we do get ill with some kind of nasty bug?
In a pub med scientific study of over 50 essential oils in 2019, cinnamon, bergamot, thyme, and lemongrass displayed 100% inhibition of H1N1 ('flu' in laymans terms) with lavender showing an inhibition rate of 85%.
Pretty staggering right?
And there have been multiple studies showing the effectivness of Thyme essential oil at inhibiting the growth and spread of bacterial MRSA. (MRSA by the way is the same bacteria that many hospitals struggle to keep under control, even with hardcore cleaning products)
Incorporating essential oils into our daily routines as we head into the season of coughs, colds, and flu seems a bit of a no-brainer to me, but then I am an aromatherapist so I am bound to be keen on their use.
But if I can convince even ONE of you to give them a go then my job here is done.
I've just got back from a mini break to Porto, and the joys of flying meant that I exited the plane and 24 hours later started to feel a little under the weather.
Flying often has that risk - couped up in a confined cabin for a couple of hours, plus the constant hand contact of dirty surfaces. All of that added to the fact we are in a transitional season when our immunity tends to dip as we recalibrate between the weather systems, meant that I came down ill, hard and fast.
Luckily however I had packed, as I always do, a little bottle of essential oil. I am going through the menopause at the moment and the Where Am I? blend is in my bag 24/7 - those of you that have been through the 'change' will not even need to have this explained to them. Suffice to say that this blend, although it's great for memory and mental clarity ALSO contains some oils that are pitch perfect for dealing with bugs and germs (Rosemary, Eucalyptus, Lemon and Basil in particular)
So as soon as I started to feel ill I was able to rub some neat into the soles of my feet (nb soles of the feet contain larger pores than most parts of the body AND are near to a multitude of blood vessels so the oils are able to get into your system more easily and effectively than most other methods). Plus I was able to inhale the oil on a tissue. Did I still feel still ill? Yes, of course, the oil isn't a miracle worker. But did I feel better and less ill because the oil was to hand - 100% yes. Less congested, less chesty, less fatigued mentally. Using the oil and keeping massively hydrated with water and orange juice (Vitamin C is not to be sniffed at when you're feeling pants) got me over the bug more speedily than would have been the case otherwise.
How best to use essential oils across the winter season to keep coughs, colds and viruses at bay?
A steam inhalation of oils is one of the best ways to clear congestion and head colds once you've already got the 'bug' but it's also a great way to prevent a cold taking hold in the first place. A form of immune boosting defence! And it's something I practice weekly aross the winter months.
All you need are a few drops of your favourite antibacterial/antiviral oil and bowl of just boiled water and a towel.
Our RIGHT AS RAIN essential oil blend contains the perfect mix of oils for this, and is a bathroom staple in our house (it's the one I use weekly to keep the germs at bay). You can find it here, or you can use your own preferred oils but when using essential oils for steam inhalation, it's crucial to ensure they are pure and of high quality.
For the classic old-fashioned method, add a few drops of your chosen essential oil to a bowl of hot water, cover your head with a towel, and inhale deeply, allowing the therapeutic vapors to work their magic. Always exercise caution, especially with hot water and if you have existing health conditions or are pregnant.
For an atmospheric cleanse, or to have oils by you during the day as you work it's worth investing in an electric steam diffuser. I absolutely love the mini cordless one that is motion activated and small enough to sit on my desk. Available here.
I've listed out some of the best antiviral and antimicrobial and antibacterial oils below to use as the seasons of coughs and colds get under. As always if you have any questions don't hesitate to get in touch with me personally on marie@bloomremedies.co.uk
Eucalyptus Oil - renowned for its ability to clear nasal passages and combat respiratory issues, thanks to its main component, 1,8-cineole, which has mucolytic, bronchodilating, and anti-inflammatory properties. A gentler version of this oil - particuarly suitable for children, the elderly and those of you who find Eucalyptus globulus too over powering is Euclyptus Citriodora (Eucalyptus Lemon). Add 2-3 drops of Eucalyptus or 4 drops of Eucalyptus Lemon to a boil of hot water for steam inhalation, or 2-3 drops of Eucalyptus or 4 drops of Eucalyptus Lemon to a steam diffuser
Tea Tree Oil - a great booster and germ deterent due to its' anitmicrobial benefits that can help ward off pathogens and support immune function. This oil does have a rather 'antiseptic' fragrance and I would advise blending with something softer like Eucalyptus Lemon or Lavender. Add 2 drops of each to a boil of hot water for steam inhalation, or 3 drops of each to a steam diffuser
Peppermint oil - with its high menthol content, this potent oil can also relieve congestion and promote easier breathing. This oil is also great for any sinus headaches that might accompany the congestion - dab a drop of the oil neat directly behind the ears, or at the base of the skull/hairline to ease a heavy head. I would combine this oil in a bowl steam inhalation (2 drops) with Lemon Eucalyptus or Lavender (2 drops) or add 3-4 drops to steam diffuser
Lavender oil - this oil is not the obvious go-to for a cold or congestion but it is not only calming and soothing, it can also support the immune system with its anti-inflammatory and antibacterial qualities. Add 2 drops alongside something with energising and decongestant properties like Euclayptus or Tea Tree to a bowl of hot water, or add 4 drops to a steam diffuser with a couple of drops of energising Euclyptus for an atmospheric cleanse.
Naouli Oil - my joint favourite oil for all things illness related (my other favourite is Ravensara below). This punchy yet gentle oil is so good at atmospheric cleansing and particularly great in a steam inhalation bowl, although go easy as a little goes a long way. With strongly antibacterial, antimicrobial AND antiviral properties there isn't a lot this oil can't do. Add 2 drops max to either a steam bowl or diffuser and blend up with some of the other oils listed here. I like to add 2 drops Naouli, plus 2 Ravensara plus 2 Eucalyptus Lemon to a steam bowl, along with slice of fresh lemon. See how much you can inhale but as always if it feels too strong then do back off.
Ravensara Oil - a mirror partner to Naouli in my opinion. I think of them as twins, best kept together and always a winning team. This oil is particularly good for viral infections that are accompanyed by flu like symptoms, aches pains and fatigue. Follow the instructions above for the Naouli steam inhalation or if you have a lot of aches and pains with your illness then add 4 drops neat to a bath. If you have a lovely partner who would like to give you a massage, add 10 drops to a 25ml bottle of base oil and get them to rub you all over!
Cinnamon Oil - another oil that is known for it's antiviral and antimicrobial properties, making it a popular choice for natural cleansing of the body, mind and home. The oil is a potent irritant so must be used with care, and I would avoid putting it neat into a steam bowl. A few drops in an electric diffuser, say 2-4, combined with another antimicrobial or antibacterial oil will be good for atmospheric cleansing. Try combining with Eucalyptus Citridora and Lavender (2 drops of each)
Rosemary Oil - known for its antimicrobial properties, Rosemary can be an effective natural solution for reducing germs and bacteria in your environment. This versatile oil, extracted from the leaves of the plant, contains compounds such as cineole and camphor, which contribute to its ability to cleanse and purify. I love adding this to a bowl of hot water for a steam cleanse, and if you don't have the oil but do have the herb try doing a steam bowl with a few sprigs of fresh rosmeary and slices of lemon (leave the skin on, as this is where the essential oil molecules are found)