Eucalyptus Blend For Bronchitis
Bronchitis is a form of respiratory tract infection, it occurs when tubes called bronchial tubes which are responsible for transporting air from trachea (windpipe) to your lungs become inflamed causing mucus to build up in the lungs. Whilst it is often a minor illness it can become more serious, symptoms of bronchitis include low fever, shortness of breath, fatigue, tightness across the chest and coughing, it can be caused by a virus, bacteria or by chemical irritants.
Using essential oil blends such as this Eucalyptus essential oil blend can help soothe and relieve the symptoms of bronchitis.
THE SYMPTOMS OF BRONCHITIS INCLUDE
A hacking cough bringing up phlegm which may be clear. yellow-grey or greenish.
Headache.
Cold/flu type symptoms such as a sore throat and a runny or blocked nose.
Fatigue.
Aches and pains.
It’s not uncommon for people to find they may have sore chest and stomach muscles from the continual persistent cough caused by bronchitis. This cough can last for a number of weeks after the infection has cleared up and all other symptoms have gone. People may also experience wheezing and a shortness of breath due to inflamed airways.
THE FOLLOWING OILS ARE PARTICULARLY BENEFICIAL
Eucalyptus – Not only is Eucalyptus a great decongestant and anti-viral oil which can help with the congestion found in bronchitis and fight the viral infection but with its analgesic and anti-inflammatory properties it can be used as an effective pain reliever and help to reduce inflammation.
Lavender – Lavender is an analgesic and anti-viral oil which can help to not only fight the virus but has pain relieving properties. Lavender also has anti-depressant and decongestant properties which can help to relieve congestion but also lift up the spirits when feeling unwell.
Sandalwood - Sandalwood has anti-viral and expectorant properties making it excellent for helping to fight viral infections and clearing congestion associated with bronchitis.
HOW TO USE
If you have an empty essential oil bottle you can clean it out and make a blend to use when needed or you can add them individually in the following ratio.
Eucalyptus – 3 drops
Lavender – 3 drops
Sandalwood – 3 drops
WAYS TO USE
DIFFUSE
Diffusing a blend of these essential oils can help to relieve the congestion and discomfort from bronchitis as well as helping to fight the infection.
Diffuse 1 - 3 drops of the blend of Eucalyptus, Lavender and Sandalwood essential oil in an oil burner or diffuser.
INHALATION
Inhaling this blend of essential oil is effective in helping to relieve symptoms associated with bronchitis helping to relieve mucus congestion, Steam inhalation helps to clear congestions in your head, nose and chest.
Simply use 1 -3 drops of the essential oil blend of Eucalyptus, Lavender and Sandalwood in a bowl of hot water, place a towel or blanket over your head and shoulders to enclose your head over the bowl and inhale for 5 – 10 minutes.
Note: Steam inhalation may be too strong for children, instead place the bowl in the room or close by and allow the steam to infuse in the air.
SIDE EFFECTS
As with all essential oils it should not be used neat on the skin, essential oils are very concentrated oils that can irritate the skin unless mixed with a carrier oil. Essential oils should not be used internally unless under the supervision of an aromatherapist.
Eucalyptus should not be used with Homoeopathic remedies because Eucalyptus is very strong and can cause adverse reactions with homoeopathic treatments.
Pets can be particularly sensitive to the effects of essential oils and can even be toxic so where possible should either be avoided or used where a pet is able to go into another room for example Eucalyptus and Lavender are such oils.