Which essential oils should be used to combat a runny nose?

Essential oils are derived from aromatic plants grown in various parts of the world and are extracted from flowers, stems, leaves, seeds, roots and resins. They have antibacterial and antiviral properties. Using essential oils boosts the body’s immune system, soothes inflammation, improves circulation and relieves pain. They have also been used for generations as a remedy for a runny nose. In the article below, we’ll answer the question: which essential oil is best for a runny nose?

Discover natural ways to relieve a blocked nose – which essential oil is best for a runny nose?

Essential oils are highly volatile substances. When inhaled, they enter the body and are very effective in aiding the treatment of upper respiratory tract infections. For this to work, the oil molecules must be released into the air. To do this, pour a suitable amount of water into a small bowl, add a few drops of essential oil, then cover your head with a towel and breathe in the vapours for 5 to 10 minutes. We can also sprinkle 3–4 drops of the essential oil onto a handkerchief or other piece of fabric and hold it close to the nose. Which essential oils can we use when we have a runny nose?

Eucalyptus

Eucalyptus essential oil is one of the most popular products used in aromatherapy. Its intense, characteristic minty scent is due to eucalyptol and limonene. Other compounds found in eucalyptus oil include camphene, p-cymene, cineole, and alpha- and beta-pinene. Inhaling eucalyptus oil helps treat infections of the upper and lower respiratory tracts. It is effective for colds, sinusitis, flu, inflammation of the throat or larynx, tonsillitis or a persistent cough. It acts as an expectorant and helps to thin out trapped mucus.

Furthermore, eucalyptus oil has warming, relaxing and vasodilatory properties. It can also be used in massage to relieve the symptoms of arthritis, rheumatism or neuralgia. To carry out an inhalation, simply add 12 drops of the oil to 200 ml of boiling water and inhale the resulting vapours for a few minutes.

Thyme

Thyme essential oil is extracted from the plant that features in our kitchens every day as a herb: thyme. It possesses very strong antibacterial properties. This is all thanks to its active compounds, which inhibit the growth of bacteria both externally and internally. Like eucalyptus oil, it aids expectoration, which is why we can confidently use it as a supportive therapy in the fight against upper respiratory tract infections.

Its mucus-thinning effect can prove to be an invaluable aid in the treatment of rhinitis. To prepare an inhalation, add 5 to 10 drops of the oil to a glass of hot water, then inhale the aroma rising from the solution for a few minutes.

Peppermint

Peppermint essential oil, when used as an inhalation, is an excellent remedy for a runny nose, the common cold, sinusitis, tonsillitis and a cough. It is also effective for menstrual discomfort, headaches, insomnia and anxiety. It has a calming effect whilst simultaneously stimulating circulation and supporting the nervous system.

The menthol it contains has antiseptic properties, whilst the flavonoids have a spasmolytic effect, reducing tension in smooth muscles. The substances found in peppermint essential oil can help us combat antibiotic-resistant strains of bacteria. To prepare an inhalation, add 5–10 drops to warm water, then inhale the vapours for 10 minutes whilst covered. Prepared in this way, the oil clears the nose, relieves a runny nose and makes breathing easier.

Cajeput

Cajeput essential oil has long been used by Australian Aborigines for inhalation and wound treatment. It has powerful antiseptic, antibacterial, antiviral and antifungal properties.

When used for inhalation, it can invigorate us, refresh the mind and improve mental clarity and concentration. It is excellent for colds and flu, as it stimulates the immune system, clears the nose and makes breathing easier. All you need is 3–4 drops mixed into a glass of warm water, followed by a few deep breaths of the resulting vapours.

Marjoram

Marjoram essential oil originates from the Mediterranean region. Its scent contains many strong notes – woody, citrus, floral and peppery. It has many uses, including antibacterial, analgesic, antiseptic, antispasmodic and calming properties. It protects us against colds, inflammation, fever and food poisoning.

Its strong aroma has been inhaled preventatively and used in upper respiratory tract therapy for generations. Our grandmothers used to make marjoram ointments using home remedies and rub them under the nose to help with a runny nose. For inhalation, 2–3 drops are sufficient, followed by 10 minutes of inhaling the vapours.

Tea tree

Tea tree essential oil is also known as ‘Ti’ Tree Oil. It is extracted from the Australian plant Melaleuca alternifolia. It has a spicy scent, and the terpinen-4-ol it contains makes up 45 per cent of the total preparation.It also contains compounds such as cineole, gamma-terpinene, p-cymene, limonene, myrcene, as well as other substances in trace amounts. Its main – and, for us, most valuable – property is its antiseptic action. It combats and inhibits the growth of microorganisms, including bacteria, fungi and viruses. Although we use it primarily to combat acne, fungal infections, psoriasis and dandruff, it works perfectly well in inhalation therapy, particularly for treating a runny nose. This is because it stimulates the immune system and supports the body during upper respiratory tract infections, flu, tonsillitis and the common cold.

To prepare a tea tree oil inhalation, add a few drops of the oil to a glass of boiling water and inhale the vapours for a few minutes.

Pine

Pine essential oil is extracted from the needles of the Scots pine. The terpenes found in these needles, which in their natural environment protect the plant from pests and pathogens, are responsible for the oil’s antibacterial and antifungal properties. In aromatherapy, we often use it to relieve sinus inflammation, as well as for symptoms affecting the bronchi and lungs or in cases of bronchitis. We particularly recommend it during the autumn and winter months, as it helps protect against colds and gently purifies the air.

In summer, however, when diffused using a nebuliser or diffuser, it will repel insects such as mosquitoes; and, as an added bonus, it will pleasantly humidify the air. If you decide to use pine essential oil, simply mix a few tablespoons of hot water with 5–10 drops of the extract.

What to bear in mind when using essential oils

Let’s make the most of the benefits of aromatherapy sensibly. Let’s use those essential oils and blends whose scent we find most appealing. When preparing a blend, let’s not mix more than five oils at a time. We should also bear in mind general contraindications, particularly in the case of pregnancy, allergies and when using them with children. We should use high-quality essential oils, as this ensures their therapeutic properties and allows us to fully enjoy their precious scent.