When one of us gets a cold, it rages through everyone in the house. Usually by the time the last person gets it, it makes another round through us all. Sure there are times through the year when colds seem to strike most, yet really, it can happen at any time.

Yet, the last time one of my twins started showing symptoms of a cold, we had a different experience. I stopped it in it’s tracks. Not only did my 6 year old only show very mild symptoms for less than two days, but no one else in the house caught it. Hooray!

So, what was my plan of attack? Essential Oils!

In the last few months have I increased my knowledge and collection of Essential Oils, and am constantly amazed by the difference they make. Their natural properties are ones that I have come to trust for such a vast array of reasons and remedies. I love this frugal deal as a starter: Aromatherapy Top 6 100% Pure Therapeutic Grade Basic Sampler Essential Oil Gift Basic sampler essential oil gift set 6/10ml (lavender, sweet orange, peppermint, lemongrass, tea tree, eucalyptus).

For now, let’s concentrate on the dreaded colds, and what you can do lessen the severity or help get over this attack on our bodies. 
 

7 Essential Oils for Colds

1. On Guard Essential Oil Protective Blend: This thieves blend is commonly used to guard against illness. Since it strengthens the immune system booster, you can use it daily to keep your health at best and lessen the severity when you have a cold. On Guard consists of Wild Orange, Clove, Cinnamon, Eucalyptus, and Rosemary. The oils in this blend kill harmful bacteria, mold, and viruses. To use On Guard – diffuse it into air, or mix with a carrier oil such as coconut to massage on the bottoms of feet, or throat.

1. Breathe Again {blend} – The name says it all! When the nose is stuffed and congestion is at it’s worst, Breathe Again is one I’d instantly reach for. I’d suggest mixing ~5 drops with a tablespoon of coconut oil {or your favourite carrier}, and rubbing it on the chest and nose. While, sleeping, diffuse Breath Again, to sleep more comfortably. Breathe again is a blend of Laurel Leaf, Peppermint, Eucalyptus, Tea Tree, Lemon, and Ravensara essential oil.

1. Frankincense Oil: This oil has been used since 1500BC as a treatment of disease and illness. This oil has endless benefits and some include muscle relaxation, immune support, uplifting of mood and heightening awareness, and its general support of body systems. One benefit is that it’s a powerful immune enhancer. It is great for use during the cold and flu season yet there isn’t a wrong time to boost your immune system so use it any time. Since it’s a muscle relaxant, it’s a good choice to use when coughing with a cold. Frankincense oil can be used topically, internally, and diffused into the environment.

1. Lemon Oil: Lemon oil is an antiseptic and and anti-bacterial {think of all those cleaning supplies that contain lemon}. For sore throats, drop lemon essential oil into water and drink or mix with a teaspoon of honey. Since lemon is also a mood elevator, you could diffuse lemon into the air when you have a cold, to help cleanse and also help that feeling of begin run-down. 

1. Eucalyptus Oil: This one is an antiviral and decongestant oil, so is very useful in helping to treat colds and congestion. Diffusing eucalyptus oil will relieve congested nasal passages, soothe inflammation and fight off bacteria.

1. Lavender Oil: Lavender is commonly used for relaxation {for example, diffused at bedtime}, yet it’s also an antiseptic and an antimicrobial. So it’ll help fight infections as well.

1. Peppermint Oil: is best known for reducing or preventing a cold, cough or fever. This oil is also great at opening and clearing sinus and respiratory congestion. It has also been known to relieve headaches {I dab just a bit on my temples}, diarrhea and nausea, and can bring a wide range of comforts to the misery of colds and flu. When applied topically, this oil is very soothing to tired, sore muscles.

Personally, I like having the blends such a On Guard and Breathe Again on hand at all times. It saves me from blending my own, and it’s easy to grab when you need it. Yet, I also use all the above in combinations.

For example, I’ll dab some On Guard on us all in the morning, and then diffuse Breathe Again at night. I love the many properties of Lemon oil, so all day I drink water with a few drops of lemon essential oil mixed in.

Have you tried essential oils for colds?

Disclaimer: I am not a doctor and these ideas are not to be taken as medical advice– they are simply what works for us. Products, information, and descriptions presented here are for educational purposes of the traditional uses of essential oils only and are not intended to diagnose, treat, cure, or prevent any disease. This information should not be used as a substitute for medical counselling with a health care professional. Individuals with serious illnesses or complications should consult a qualified health care professional.