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Aromatherapy, Essential Oils and Flu

By Natalie L Fox

Flu

First things first; if you have, or think you have any of the symptoms of Swine Flu you must seek medical attention. You can consult the symptom check box and find some useful numbers.

We often refer to ‘flu’ when we have symptoms like fever, coughs, muscle aches and tiredness however; true Influenza is a much more serious illness, often occurring in widespread epidemics.

Flu is a virus, or a viral infection which reproduces very quickly in the body. It is important to rest, drink lots of fluid, raise your immunity and knock out the virus. Secondary bacterial infections can be fairly common in certain risk groups like the elderly or people with underlying health conditions.

Aromatherapy and Essential Oils

As far as aromatherapy and essential oils go, there are many with anti-viral and anti-bacterial properties.

There are several key essential oils that have a variety of useful properties and they include; Eucalyptus, Tea Tree, Clove, Thyme and Lavender.

Eucalyptus

Eucalyptus is an expectorant; it’s anti-viral and also anti-inflammatory.

Tea Tree

Tea Tree is anti-infective for a wide range of problems and it is also anti-microbial.

Clove

Clove is anti-bacterial and anti-viral and has been useful in cases of viral hepatitis and tuberculosis.

Thyme

Thyme is a good all-rounder as it has a strong anti-infective action, it stimulates the immune system, and it’s anti-viral and anti-bacterial.

Lavender

Lavender is a great anti-septic; it is balancing and can relieve tension. Lavender is also good for improving sleep and relaxation. Lavender oil is also a great synergist – so if you combine it with other essential oils it will enhance their properties further.

As a lot of these essential oils are very powerful, they are too harsh to use directly onto the skin. To get the most benefit from them (especially with cases of flu) it is best to pop a few drops into the bath, diffuse the essential oils in an oil burner, or fill a spray bottle with a few drops of essential oil and some warm water. This way they will benefit your respiratory system directly.

Aromatherapy and essential oils are fascinating; however it is always best to consult a qualified aroma therapist.