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AROMATHERAPY FOR COLDS AND FLU

With the on set of Winter one illness that seems to hit us all at some time is the dreaded cold or even worse the flu. Influenza and the Common Cold are both caused by viral infections. There fore we want to use essential oils that are anti-viral as well as those which act against bacteria which may cause secondary infections

You can try Tea Tree Oil (Melaleuca Alternifolia) to help alleviate the symptoms brought on by a cold or flu.

Tea Tree is distilled from the leaves and branches of the Tea Tree, a small tree belonging to the myrtle family and a native of the marsh land of New South Wales in Australia. Tea Tree oil is a powerful antiseptic and fungicide and is reputed to boost the depleted immune system.

There are many reports of minor skin reactions caused by Tea Tree. However this may be because some of the oils sold are adulterated and modified versions of the oil and this may explain why it does not live up to its reputation. However caution should be exercised if the oil is used neat or in high concentrations.

And for all you lovers of lavender, you will be happy to know that in addition to all of lavender's other uses (skin care, burns, cuts, stress and insomnia, to name a few), it is another good choice for colds and flu. It helps stimulate the immune system, as well as soothe aches and chills and general blahs. As many aromatherapists say, when in doubt, use lavender.

At the first sign of a cold or flu it is a good idea to take a warm bath, adding up 8 drops of Lavender or Tea Tree oil or up to 5 drops of Eucalyptus (you can make this up to 8 drops in total by adding 3 of one of the other two oils). After the bath try to go to bed and have a good deep sleep. This may then help you fend off the infection completely or make it less severe in it’s effects.

Pine is another good essential oil for the respiratory system, because it helps draw out deep seated congestion. It is also helpful for coughs, chills and aches. It is strengthening and energizing.

Another essential oil that helps lift our energy level when we're feeling down is rosemary. Its invigorating qualities help pick us up and help us get on our way when we need to get about our business but feel groggy and tired

INHALATION

The best method of using this oil when you have a cold is by inhalation. Inhaling the oils with warm steam in a small space means you get maximum benefits in minimum time.

Method:- (due care and caution must be taken when using hot water)

Place 1 litre (2 pints) of hot water in a heat-retaining bowl and add five drops of essential Tea Tree oil to the surface of the water. Lean forwards over the bowl and drape a large towel over your head to trap the evaporating oils and steam. Inhale the vapours for a few minutes, then add a little more boiling water to evaporate off any remaining essential oil.

You may also inhale, undiluted essential oils from a tissue or handkerchief, but only in moderation. Two drops of oil tipped directly onto the fabric is enough to last for several hours. Place it on your pillow at night or in your breast pocket or bra during the day.

Although Tea Tree is an extremely potent oil for fighting infection, it is one of the gentlest oils to inhale.

HOW IT WORKS

The tiny chemical elements that make up each molecule of an essential oil are absorbed through the nasal membranes and activates the white blood cells to fight infection. Although researchers still don’t understand how this happens they have physical proof that it does. They know, for example, that inhaling a relaxing smell causes an immediate reduction in blood pressure and slows the heartbeat. Inhaling essential oils is a quick simple and effective way of enjoying their therapeutic benefits. If you use aromatherapy on a daily basis, it is also a good way to test and strengthen your sense of smell and improve your health and well-being. And anyone who comes into your home will benefit too.

TIP!!! For deodorising a sickroom use Eucalyptus or Tea Tree oil. Pour 5 drops of each into half a litre of water and pour into a pump action spray bottle. Shake the mixture well before pumping 4 or 5 sprays into the air to deodorise freshen and scent a room.

IMPORTANT:

THE ADVICE OFFERED ABOVE IS IN NO WAY A SUBSTITUTE FOR SEEKING QUALIFIED MEDICAL HELP AND ANY SUGGESTIONS CONSIDERED ARE AT THE DISCRETION OF THE RECIPIENT.