Have you ever had a cold, an allergic reaction or a bad case of the flu that left you feeling congested?
Dealing with a congested nose can be a frustrating experience, but fortunately there are remedies available to help alleviate it. In this article we will explore the causes of nasal congestion and how to use essential oils for congestion.
Causes of nasal congestion
Nasal congestion occurs when the tissues lining the nasal passages swell. This swelling is caused by inflamed blood vessels, resulting in a blocked or stuffy feeling.
Although nasal congestion can clear up on its own over time, it can be uncomfortable, and many people seek relief. One such approach is the use of essential oil for congestion.
What essential oils are
Essential oils are commonly used in aromatherapy and are also often used as a natural alternative for certain conditions. These oils are extracted from plants through processes such as steam distillation or cold pressing.
Typically, the essence, including the scent and flavour of the plant material, is captured in this extract.
Buckley & Phillips Aromatics pride themselves on providing an extensive selection of high-quality essential oils crafted with utmost care and precision. A significant portion of their exceptional collection is extracted using the time-honoured method of steam distillation. This ancient technique, which is said to be invented by Avicenna in the 11th century, involves placing plant material in a large vessel through which hot steam or water passes. This causes the oils in the plant cells to evaporate and condense. This condensation is later separated from the water making up a bottle of essential oil.
How essential oils work
There are several ways to use essential oils, but the most common method is via inhalation. Inhaling essential oils is thought to stimulate areas of the limbic system, which is involved in memory formation and unconscious physiological functions such as breathing, heart rate and blood pressure. This connection to the limbic system suggests that essential oils have a significant effect on the body, which can lead to the relief of nasal congestion.
Understanding the properties of different essential oils for congestion
Now let’s look at how different essential oils, and the properties they contain, can help to relieve congestion.
Each essential oil is made from the essences of specific plants or botanicals. These plants contain constituents that have various therapeutic properties. For example, some plants can have compounds with antibacterial and anti-inflammatory properties which would aid in the clearing of nasal congestion.
Here’s a list of some essential oils for congestion:
Peppermint oil contains menthol, a compound that acts on the mucus receptors in the nose, thinning the mucus and helping to open the airways. It may also fight bacteria and reduce inflammation.
Eucalyptus oil can relieve nasal congestion by clearing the nasal passageways. In addition to this, Eucalyptus oil also contains cineol, a compound that is thought to have mucolytic properties. This compound can further relax smooth muscles and reduce inflammation. Moreover, eucalyptus oil is thought to relieve runny noses and headaches as well.
Pine oil’s benefits come from its alpha & beta-pinene content. It has antiseptic and antibacterial properties which is effective in clearing mucus and soothing sore throats.
The main constituents of lavender are linalool and linalyl acetate. Lavender is known for its calming scent and therapeutic properties. It also has an analgesic effect, which is a pain-relieving effect that can help to reduce the inflammation of the nasal tissues, thus helping to relieve nasal congestion.
When looking for oils to relieve congestion, consider the oils mentioned above or look for blends that combine several varieties. For example, Buckley & Phillips Aromatics’ Easy Breathe Essential Oil Blend contains all four oils, providing a cruelty-free, 100% pure, natural botanical product with no fillers or additives.
How to use essential oils for congestion
Now that we understand the benefits of essential oils for congestion relief, let’s look at the different methods of using them effectively.
Buckley & Phillips Aromatics recommend adding their oils to a diffuser or oil burner. However, if you do not have these on hand, there are alternative methods to consider. One option is to add a few drops of essential oil to a handkerchief and gently inhale the aroma while holding the handkerchief to your face. Be careful not to allow the pure essential oil to come into direct contact with your skin, as this can cause irritation.
Another method is to add a few drops of oil to a bowl of boiling water. Place a towel over your head and the bowl to trap the steam. Lean over the bowl with your head under the towel and breathe in the steam to help clear your nasal passages.
Alternatively, you can mix the essential oils with a carrier oil and apply the mixture to your chest, avoiding your face. This method allows the oils to be absorbed through the skin, helping to relieve congestion. Buckley & Phillips have a Easy Breathe Pulse Point Roller that makes this method of using essential oil for congestion easy and safe for topical use.
Nasal congestion can be an annoying symptom of many conditions, and with the use of essential oils, relief is within reach. By inhaling these soothing and therapeutic scents, you will be able to relieve congestion, clear the nasal passages and reduce inflammation. Keep in mind that when it comes to essential oils, it is important to find a reputable brand that produces high quality essential oils for congestion. Essential oils can easily cause irritation if not processed or used properly. You should also explore the different ways they can be used to find the right one that works for you.
Embrace the power of nature and use essential oils for congestion relief the next time you have a stuffy nose.