Essential oils may not heal a case of the flu, but inhaling certain ones, like eucalyptus or peppermint, may help to relieve certain symptoms, like congestion and headaches.
Overview
In most cases, having the flu means increasing self-care as you wait for the infection to run its course. One effective method of self-care is using essential oils as a topical rub or for aromatherapy. These strongly scented oils can help alleviate your flu symptoms, especially by clearing your nasal passage and reducing headaches. Some oils may even have antiviral benefits to help treat infections and reduce fever. Keep reading to learn how to use these oils and which ones to use for the flu.
Inhalation is the most beneficial way to use essential oils for a flu. You can inhale essential oils by sniffing the bottle directly or adding a few drops of oil to a cotton ball or handkerchief. This method helps clear your nasal passages so you can breathe better. The oils may also help you sleep better and destress.
You can also add a few drops essential oils to:
- a diffuser, to clean the air
- dilute in a carrier oil and add to steamy bathwater
- a carrier oil, for massaging the head, neck, or feet
- a large bowl of hot water, for steam inhalation
- hot or cold compresses
Benefits depend on the application and type of oil. For example, the menthol and cooling effects of peppermint oil may work better in a chest rub than in a diffuser. With topical applications, be sure to dilute the oil before applying it to your skin. You can use an ounce of carrier oil, such as coconut oil, for every few drops of essential oil.
| Oil | Benefits |
| lemon | clears your nasal passages and allows for steady breathing |
| lavender | relieves stress, fatigue, depression, and headaches |
| peppermint | reduces coughs, sinusitis, and throat infections |
| thyme | has antibacterial activity to help fight respiratory infections |
| eucalyptus | reduces fevers and fights viruses |
| tea tree oil | inhibits bacteria and fights infections |
| chamomile | relieves cold and flu symptoms |
| clove (eugenol) | has antiviral and antifungal properties to clean surfaces or air |
| cinnamon | can clean surfaces or air |
| rosemary | is a nontoxic way to clean surfaces or air |
Read more: Natural antihistamines to try »
Potency: Essential oils are extremely potent. Avoid taking essential oils by mouth. You also shouldn’t use a concentrated amount. If you don’t dilute the oils, they may irritate the skin, eyes, and lungs. You can dilute essential oils with carrier oils such as coconut oil, avocado oil, castor oil, or others. Dilute a few drops of essential oil with an ounce of carrier oil. Depending on the essential oil, the ratio can vary. Do a patch test on the inside of your forearm to check for any skin sensitivities.
Quality: Be sure to buy your essential oils from a reputable source. They should ships your oils in glass bottles. Plastic bottles increase the risk of contamination and decrease the shelf life the oil.
Pregnancy: Talk to your doctor if you have any concerns about essential oil use. If you’re pregnant or breastfeeding, you may want to avoid using essential oils. There’s not enough research about the safety of essential oils for children or pregnant women. It may be toxic in large doses.
There is limited research on essential oils and the flu, especially in humans. Some studies show that essential oil have properties that can fight viruses, alleviate flu symptoms, and increase comfort during the illness.
A
A 2014 review of essential oils recognized the health benefits of essential oils. They also noted antibacterial, antifungal, antiviral, and other properties that may have applications for human medicine.
While essential oils can help fight the flu and decrease your symptoms, you shouldn’t rely on them as your only treatment. Over-the-counter medications work better and may even decrease your recovery time. Most of these medications have side effects such as drowsiness or alertness, but you can try:
- decongestants, which should only be used for a few days to avoid any rebound symptoms
- antihistamines, which block typical flu symptoms such as sneezing, itching, and runny nose
- acetaminophen, which relieves fever and other pain associated with the flu
- throat lozenges, which you can suck on to relieve a scratchy throat
Limit what medications you take to avoid overloading your system. Seek medical attention if you have symptoms for longer than three days or if they are getting worse.
Read more: Drugs and treatments for the flu »
Learn the symptoms of the flu so you know when to start your essential oil treatment. You can begin using essential oils immediately when you feel flu symptoms coming on. Add a few drops to your bath, diffuse them into the air, or mix them with a carrier oil for a rub.
You can find essential oils online or at a health store. Keeping a few basic oils around, such as tea tree, peppermint, and lavender, can be helpful, even if you’re not sick. They can also help with stress or pain.
To prevent yourself from getting the flu, keep your immune system strong by eating a healthy diet and getting your annual flu vaccination.
