Aromatherapy is a practice that has been around for thousands of years but has not been studied in depth by the scientific community. However, many essential oils and essential oil blends are believed to be helpful in relieving sinus congestion. There are popular products that contain essential oil blends, such as the ones in this article, that you can make yourself with a little bit of knowledge.
Essential Oils for Sinus Congestion
Essential oils are plant oils that have been extracted from the plant through steam or chemical distillation. Although there is not a lot of supporting research, the University of Maryland Medical Center suggests that some essential oils may reduce congestion and inflammation. Popular choices for sinus blends include: eucalyptus, camphor, fir, lavender and marjoram. If you have asthma, emphysema or other respiratory conditions, you should avoid eucalyptus and monitor your reaction to the use of any essential oil.
Aromatherapy Applications
Aromatherapy utilizes essential oils suspended in a carrier oil in almost all applications. The carrier oil can be a solid oil such as palm kernel or coconut or a liquid oil such as olive or sunflower. Use about five drops of each essential oil in one oz. of solid or liquid oil and rub on the chest to help heat the vapors for inhalation. Diffusers, such as reeds or cloths can be used to carry essential oils. Reeds are set in a glass container with a blend of water infused with essential oils. Add 10 to 15 drops of essential oil per cup of water and blend well. Steam is another popular method for distributing the aroma of essential oils for inhalation. Heat water and remove from the heat source before adding approximately 10 drops of essential oil per two cups of water.
Sinus Blend Recipes
Adding essential oils used to relieve congestion and inflammation to other essential oils will create aromatherapy blends for different effects on mood and energy. For an uplifting, yet relaxing, sinus blend mix lavender with eucalyptus and use in the manner of choice as explained above. An excellent night-time aromatherapy sinus blend incorporates the relaxing properties of jasmine and fir for an effective woody-scented blend. A stimulating day-time blend includes peppermint and camphor. Use any of the essential oils alone or blended together to create blends that are most effective for you.
Warning
Essential oils should never be taken internally unless recommended by an experienced aromatherapist. Do not apply essential oils directly to the skin without suspending in a carrier oil or serious skin irritation can develop. When applying a blend to the skin, test an area to check for sensitivity before using on a wide-spread area. Essential oils are highly concentrated and some are toxic---store in a safe place out of reach of children as with any other medication.
Tags: essential oils, essential oils, congestion inflammation, drops essential, essential blends