The Essential Oils for Congestion Relief

Sinus congestion can be caused by allergies, colds, influenza, or sinusitis. Unfortunately, congestion or a “stuffy” nose causes some uncomfortable symptoms. For instance, it can:

• Make the nasal passages feel blocked
• Cause discharge (runny nose),
• Cause a burning sensation in the nostrils
• Make it difficult to breathe through the nose
• Cause uncomfortable or painful pressure in the eyes and/or ears 

Simply put, congestion is irritating. The most common relief agents are over-the-counter (OTC) decongestants. These medicines treat the symptoms or possible underlying infection causing the symptoms. However, some people prefer more natural remedies, such as essential oils. 

Essential oils are known for their medicinal properties, especially in treating common ailments like nasal congestion. Find out more about these agents and how they can help you remedy a stuffy, runny nose below.

Best Essential Oils to Treat Nasal Congestion

Fortunately, essential oils are a safe alternative treatment for nasal congestion. They may even be used to treat other symptoms caused by an infection, including a cough and inflammation. In fact, essential oils are often used to treat many cold symptoms, such as chest and/or nasal congestion, sore throat, and cough. The best essential oils for cough and congestion are:

Peppermint: Contains menthol, which is a common ingredient in OTC medicines for nasal and chest congestion, like lozenges, chest rubs, and nasal inhalers

Eucalyptus: Can help clear mucus from the airways, act as a cough suppressant, and help treat sinusitis

Tea Tree: Has antibacterial, anti-inflammatory, and antiseptic properties, which may help reduce inflammation associated with congestion

Oregano: Has antifungal and antibacterial properties, which may help reduce inflammation

Although these essential oils may help relieve nasal congestion, they’re not a complete cure, just as how OTC decongestants address symptoms and not the illness itself. If you have an infection, it must be treated with antibiotics to prevent complications or subsequent infections. However, essential oils can often be combined with other remedies for a comprehensive approach to congestion.

How to Use Essential Oils to Treat Nasal Decongestion

Treating a stuffy nose with essential oils requires the right application. Proper application involves inhalation, which is the safest, most effective way to use the essential oils. This inhalation can occur in several ways. For example:

Direct inhalation: Inhale the oil directly from the bottle or inhaler tube, or apply a few drops to a tissue or cotton ball.

Aromatherapy: Add a few drops to massage oil or lotion during an aromatherapy massage, or add it to your bath water to inhale while taking a soothing bath.

Diffusing into the air: Use a humidifier or essential oil diffuser to constantly diffuse the oil(s) (diluted in water) into the air.

Steam inhalation: Add a few drops of your chosen oil(s) to a bowl of hot water, position your head about 8 to 12 inches from the bowl, place a towel over your head, close your eyes, then breathe the steam through your nose for two minutes.

LaCura provides the highest quality pure essential oils, ready to be easily added to your daily healthy living routine. Find your favorite blend now!