Breathe Easy: Best Essential Oils For Sinus Congestion
In cases of sinus congestion, the nasal passages are blocked with mucus. The most common causes for this are allergies, colds, and flu. Sinus congestion usually causes a sinus headache and loss of smell; however, not all people experience these symptoms. The treatments for this ailment usually involve artificial decongestants such as sprays or tablets which can cause unwanted side effects including addiction. Sinus congestion may be categorized as acute or chronic. Acute sinus congestion usually lasts for a week and has no real symptoms other than pain and discomfort in the head and neck area.
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Chronic sinus congestion, however, is when this ailment remains below the skull throughout the entire day with no obvious signs or symptoms before it begins. There are various symptoms associated with sinus congestion. Headaches are common because of pressure but this is not always present in every case. Other symptoms include a blocked nose and a runny nose. People with sinus congestion will often have a stuffed-up feeling in the head, and a feeling of fullness in the cheekbone, and chest. Although there is no cure whatsoever for sinus congestion, there are ways one can reduce the symptoms of this ailment. Medications like decongestants and antihistamines can help clear out mucus from within the sinuses, but this only works for people who are not allergic to the agent that is used to decongest it.
Best essential oils for sinus congestion
1) Clove essential oil
Clove essential oil is used to clear up sinus congestion as well as headaches and headaches. The clove scent of this essential oil can clear away congestion as well as make one feel a little bit more comfortable, relaxing, and refreshing. Clove Essential Oil can also be used for its stimulating properties which can give one the ability to focus more on things they are currently working on or trying to learn. It has many medicinal properties that it takes advantage of because of this and should not be overlooked when dealing with sinus congestion.
2) Eucalyptus essential oil
The Eucalyptus essential oil contains anti-inflammatory effects which can help improve sinuses. One of the main ingredients that makes it so effective is eucalyptol which is known for its antispasmodic properties. When inhaled this essential oil can relieve congestion and clear out mucus as well as inflammation. It also has antimicrobial properties which are great for sinus congestion.
3) Peppermint essential oil
The main ingredient that makes peppermint oil so effective is menthol which has many beneficial properties including cold and flu treatment as well as the ability to relieve headaches and sinus congestion. It can be used with other essential oils or on its own to treat these conditions all while leaving a tingly feeling in your nose area.
4) Lavender essential oil
The main ingredient that makes lavender oil so effective is linalool which is known for its antifungal properties. Lavender Essential Oil can be used in conjunction with other oils to relieve sinus congestion caused by an infection or the common cold. It also has a relaxing effect and can be used as an aid in lowering stress levels, which may help relieve sinus congestion and help you get through work or school more easily.
5) Ylang-ylang essential oil
This specific essential oil has so many benefits when treated as a medicine including anti-depressant, anti-arousal, anxiety relief, uplifting moods, and sleep aids. Ylang-Ylang Essential Oil can also help open the sinuses and relieve the feeling of congestion. This oil can be inhaled or applied topically for its various benefits.
6) Myrrh essential oil
Myrrh is an excellent choice for treating infections, colds, and flu symptoms because of its antibacterial properties on top of these other benefits. The main ingredient that makes Myrrh Essential Oil so effective is myrcene which is known for its deodorising and anti-microbial benefits. It can also be applied topically as an antiseptic or gargled with water to ease the congestion of sinusitis.
7) Cinnamon essential oil
The smell of cinnamon helps uplift and energize by reviving the mind and body. When inhaled, it has a similar effect to eucalyptol and can be used as an excellent decongestant which will help reduce headaches and sinus congestion. Cinnamon Essential Oil can also be used as a dietary supplement for healthy blood sugar levels, optimum digestive function, mood enhancement, weight loss, immune support, and brain function.
8) Rosemary essential oil
Rosemary works very well as an anti-inflammatory and pain medication. It contains powerful antioxidants that can trap free radicals and other harmful chemicals. Rosemary Essential Oil also contains antibacterial, antifungal, antihistamine, anti-inflammatory, and analgesic properties. It also helps with congestion and can be applied topically as an antiseptic.
9) Basil essential oil
Basil is known to help treat respiratory issues like sinus problems by removing mucus from the nose, throat, and bronchial tubes. Basil Essential Oil is also used as a flavor enhancer in many popular dishes today. These same properties remain when used for medicinal purposes.
How to use essential oils for sinus congestion?
Step 1: Find a quiet area where one will not be disturbed, sitting on a comfortable chair.
Step 2: Inhale the scent of the essential oil while you're in this quiet area. To do this, put two or three drops of the oil onto a tissue paper or handkerchief and inhale it deeply.
Step 3: Breathe deeply for at least ten minutes to allow the essential oils to go into your nasal passages and help with sinus congestion.
Step 4: If you are planning on using several different essential oils, allow at least an hour between each use to allow for the first fragrance to fully evaporate before applying another scent.
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Step 5: Repeat the steps as much as needed to reduce the severity of sinus congestion and allergy symptoms.
FAQs
1) Can one use natural essential oils without a doctor’s recommendation?
Yes, but one should consult a medical professional before using if they are not used to using essential oils and are allergic to any of the ingredients.
2) What is the proper way to diffuse essential oils?
Diffusing is what is known as "distilling" the essential oil into the air around you. It's done by placing a cotton pad on your distiller and filling it with your favorite essential oil. The contents will then be drawn into the pad and released evenly throughout your space. You can even place the pad directly beneath your nose and inhale it as it fills up your nasal cavity.
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