As we are concentrating on colds and flu, we are looking at oils with a high proportion of certain chemical components that have proven properties that will help these issues (congestion, runny nose, aches and pains, etc.) The following 3 chemical components have been scientifically proven to have the following properties:
D-limonene: activates white blood cells, analgesic, anti-inflammatory, antibacterial, antihypotensive, antinociceptive, antiobesity, antioxidant, antitumoral, antiulcerogenic, anxiolytic, autophagy stimulation, hepatoprotective, immunostimulant, skin penetration enhancer, vasorelaxant
Pinene (a): analgesic, anti-inflammatory, antibacterial, antifungal (Candida), antinociceptive, antispasmodic, antiviral, anxiolytic, gastroprotective, prevents bone loss
1,8 cineole: airborne antimicrobial, analgesic, anti-inflammatory, antibacterial, antinociceptive, antioxidant, antispasmodic, antiviral, cognition enhancement, dopaminergic, gastroprotective, hypotensive, increases cerebral blood flow, inhibits acetylcholinesterase, mucolytic, skin penetration enhancer
As you can see, there are obvious benefits for using oils high in these properties to help prevent or treat colds and flu, but how do we know what oils have these components? The answer lies in a GC/MS report (Gas Chromatography/ Mass Spectrometry). Reputable Essential oil companies will have these readily available for any oil batch they sell.
GC/MS reports can be used to identify oils that are high in the components you are looking for and can help you make substitutions if necessary. They also can tell you if an oil has been adulterated in any way (that is, if it is pure or not.) Based on this information, I have selected 5 essential oils that will help us survive this season and are easily available. Use this link to purchase high quality oils – https://www.aromatics.com?sca_ref=3140382.hsuAvWUmoz.
1) Eucalyptus – airborne microbial, reduces congestion and coughing, reduces viruses, eases swelling, calms aches and pains.
2) Sweet Orange – uplifting aroma, supports immunity, soothes muscle aches associated with colds, reduces nausea, stress/anxiety reduction
3) Lavender – reducing stress and tension, diffuse to reduce germs, immune support, reduce sinus congestion and inflammation, helps you get a good night’s sleep
4) Tea Tree – reduces viruses and bacteria, reducing swelling in sinuses, reduces congestion
5) Frankincense – emotional balance/calming, reduces muscle aches and headaches, reduces nighttime coughing, calms spasms
Now the fun bit! Some DIY recipes that you can easily make and use at home. The first two are diffuser recipes. An oil diffuser is a device that breaks essential oils down into smaller molecules, dispersing them into the air. I recommend a plug-in diffuser, called an Ultrasonic or Humidifying Diffuser. Please do not use oils in a traditional humidifier, they will end up clogging it up. You will need to dilute the essential oil with water for the diffuser’s electronic frequencies to release the oil into a mist. Make sure that it has an automatic shut off when it runs out of water. They do not need to be expensive; TJMAXX always has a selection for around $20, just don’t expect any essential oils you buy there to be great quality.
Daytime Diffuser Blend
3 drops Eucalyptus (Eucalyptus Globulus)
3 drops Sweet Orange (Citrus sinensis)
2 drops Tea Tree (Melaleuca alternafolia)
Make up a stock blend, then add 7-10 drops to a diffuser. Run for no more than 2 hours at a time. If there are animals in the house, make sure they can leave the area if they wish.
Nighttime Diffuser Blend
4 drops Frankincense (Boswellia Carterii)
2 drops Lavender (Lavendula Angustifolia)
2 drops Sweet Orange (Citrus Sinensis)
Make up a stock blend, then add 7-10 drops to a diffuser. Run for no more than 2 hours at a time. If there are animals in the house, make sure they can leave the area if they wish.
Good Night’s Sleep Bath Salt Blend
2 drops Frankincense (Boswellia carterii)
2 drops Lavender (Lavendula augustifolia)
2oz pink Himalayan salt (or Epsom salts)
1 tbsp Castile soap
Add salts to a nice hot bath, soak for at least 15 minutes. Sleep well!
Chest and Neck Rub
6 drops Eucalyptus (Eucalyptus Globulus)
5 drops Frankincense (Boswellia Carterii)
4 drops Tea Tree (Melaleuca alternifolia)
2 drops Lavender (Lavandula angustifolia)
1oz Lotion
Mix well, use on chest and neck when you feel under the weather.
* Once made, your blends are susceptible to oxidization, so use within 6-12 months.
email: nyrbhalla@gmail.com I web: us.nyrorganic.com/shop/tracybhalla I www. LogHouseAromatics.com