Last week I was down with the sniffles – I’m not sick very often, but when the occasional runny nose occurs it can really throw my week off.
Instead of the usual approach, I tried a dilution of Young Living’s therapeutic grade essential oils. Using organic extra virgin coconut oil as a carrier I made a 50-50% dilution of R.C. Essential Oil to Frankincense, and rubbed it all over my chest, neck and throat. I added a hot compress at night.
R.C. contains Spruce, Cypress, and three types of Eucalyptus oils (E. globulus, E. radiata, and E. citriodora). Frankincense (Boswellia carterii) is great for supporting the immune system. I can’t really describe Frankincense except that it’s earthy and gorgeous smelling.. for me it’s like time stopped in a bottle of Frankincense.. I picture the 3 wise men journeying for miles on camel back, and taking a bottle of this fragrant most prized oil to the birth place of Jesus.. it makes my skin tingle with delight. Anyway, I rubbed it in and I tell you, you gotta use it to be a believer. I was right as rain the next day.
Anyway you may or may not believe me but you can try these easy natural home remedies to help make you more comfortable the next time you’re feeling under the weather…
1. Neck, Throat, Chest Massage
Directly massaging the throat and chest with essential oils that have been diluted in a carrier oil is possibly the most comforting thing ever. Short of reaching for chemicals i.e. drugs, reach for Young Living’s R.C., Peppermint & Frankincense instead – R.C. Essential Oil contains Spruce, Cypress, and three types of Eucalyptus oils (E. globulus, E. radiata, and E. citriodora) – supports open airways and help you breathe easy. These three E.O’s or like me you can choose a combination of two, as a remedy for the occasional sniffles. Peppermint is another great one to add as it supports lung function and easy breathing.
2. Peppermint Massage
The occasional bunged up nose, can be one of the most unpleasant symptoms to have.
Put peppermint and Tea Tree on the diffuser, or,
Gently massage near the nostrils with a local application of diluted Peppermint or Tea Tree essential oil. Make sure you avoid contact with the eyes and mucous membranes.
For the occasional sniffles, combine a few drops of Lavender or Peppermint essential oil with a carrier oil and rub the mixture on to the nose, massaging near the nostrils.
Before bed, use Lavender and Peppermint oils to massage the sinuses. This may comfort the sinuses and sends you off into a fragrant slumber!
3. Steam Inhalation
For healthy lung function, combine 3 – 12 drops of Lemon, R.C. & Lavender, in a bowl or pot of steaming water. Deeply inhale the steam.
4. Direct Essential Oil Inhalation
If steaming water is not readily available to you, we’ve got an even easier method to try. Apply 1 – 6 drops of Lemon or Peppermint essential oil to a tissue or handkerchief and inhale occasionally up to three times daily.
Lemon & Peppermint are gentle and comforting and support good lung function.
5. Warm Compresses
Infuse your compress with essential oils. I likes to use either,
– Frankincense – R.C
– Tea Tree – Thieves
– Peppermint – Lemon
– Lemon – Lavender
Shake the bottle thoroughly, then soak your compress (a clean, absorbent washcloth is recommended). Gently squeeze the compress to remove excess moisture. Apply the compress directly on the forehead, on the throat or on the chest. Cover the compress with a t-shirt or towel and leave in place for 2 to 4 hours.
Hope these tips help you as they have done, for my family!
Disclaimer : Possible skin sensitivity so always check with a small dab to a small skin surface area first. If PREGNANT or under a doctor’s care, CONSULT your physician. Dilute before using on sensitive areas such as the face, neck, genital area, etc. Keep out of reach of children. AVOID using on infants and very small children.
No comments yet.