Aromatherapy and Respiratory Conditions

Essential oils and aromatic herbs have been used to treat respiratory disorders for centuries.  The aroma of most species of eucalyptus, mint, conifers, and even the various types of lavender show powerful effects that can clear mucus, open airways, reduce bronchial spams, and address infections.  Indigenous peoples have known this and used these aromatics well before we had modern aromatherapy. With current distillation and extraction techniques for essential oils, we have even stronger, more effective ways to treat breathing problems. 

Respiratory disorders can be divided into two main categories: upper and lower respiratory tract disorders.  Upper respiratory diseases include the common cold, strep throat, sinusitis, tonsillitis and even sleep apnea.  If the cause is a bacterial infection, essential oils show remarkable effects as antimicrobial agents.  Some diseases such as the common cold are the result of viral infection.  Though this is more challenging to treat, many essential oils have potent antiviral properties and have been successful in reversing the progression of a viral infection such as a cold as well as reducing its side effects.  Essential oils have strong effects on any buildup of mucus in these conditions.  If you have smelled a eucalyptus plant, you know that it can help with clearing air passageways. 

Disorders of the lower respiratory tract can be more debilitating.  Bronchitis is an inflammation of the mucosal lining of the bronchial tubes and can be classified as acute or chronic.  Acute bronchitis is often caused by the common cold and could be a viral or bacterial infection.  It is often referred to as a chest cold and can be contagious. Exposure to others should be limited.  Symptoms include low fever, wheezing, body aches, and a productive cough.  Chronic bronchitis is chronic inflammation of the bronchi and bronchioles which causes mucus to accumulate. Essential oils can be used to help clear mucous, reduce the bronchial inflammation, and address the infection. 

Asthma is a condition where the bronchi spasm and swell.  Along with this, they will produce thick mucus which hinders breathing.  Other symptoms include chest tightness, wheezing, and coughing.  Asthma symptoms can be “triggered” by irritants such as those found in commercial products, mold, pollen, and air pollution.  Certain essential oils have antispasmodic effects and can be very helpful for those with asthma.  A blend of essential oils to also help clear mucus, relax passageways, and decrease inflammation can be a powerful tool to address asthmatic symptoms. 

There are several other respiratory illnesses that can be addressed with aromatherapy that are not covered here. The ones mentioned here were discussed to show the efficacy of using essential oils for respiratory problems in general.  Usually, this can be done along with pharmaceutical medications, breathing devices, and prescribed inhalers.  The value of essential oils for the respiratory system lies in their antimicrobial, broncho-dilating (airway muscle relaxing and opening), mucus-removing and anti-inflammatory effects, with little to no side effects.  A blend of these oils can be used in a diffuser, nasal inhaler, and/or a topical application.