By Cal Orey –
People have been relying on essential oils to help take care of aches and pains for thousands of years. And with good reason. These oils—whether used solo or in a blend—are among nature’s ancient medicines, offering abundant therapeutic properties. But it’s not just our distant ancestors who called on these natural remedies for help. Essential oils are used by growing legions of followers today to soothe, calm, restore and heal our bodies and minds. Beyond being natural, essential oils attract users because they are an easy DIY cough and cold remedy you can do at home to treat a host of pesky problems—in much the same way our mothers and grandmothers did.
Here are four essential oil remedies for what ails you.
Got a Cold? Whiff Lavender
During the fall and winter months when the temperature drops and we huddle inside, colds are common if for no other reason than we’re closer to people and their germs. Everyone knows this. What’s less known is that there’s an essential oil that can help bolster your immunity acting as a natural cough and cold remedy to help keep the common cold at bay.
What Scent-sational Rx to Use: Take a lavender-scented bath. Mix 3 drops of essential lavender oil with ¼ cup of jojoba or almond oil. Put the concoction into a tub filled with water.
Why You’ll Feel Essentially Fine: Lavender is a calming bacteria-fighting essential oil. Its anti-inflammatory compounds can help to keep you safeguarded against germs found on surfaces and the environment.
Coughing & Hacking? Go See Rosemary
What’s more irritating than that tickle in your throat that makes you cough? Not much, except maybe a hacking cough that brings an unhealthy dollop of pain along for the ride. Don’t worry. There’s an oil that can help.
What Scent-sational Rx to Use: Combine 4 drops of rosemary essential oil into a diffuser or vaporizer. Or simply put the oil onto a handkerchief and take a whiff or two.
Why You’ll Feel Essentially Fine: Rosemary can be an aid to lessen the need to cough with due credit to a compound called 1,8-cinole. It may calm the muscles in the respiratory system, preventing coughing.
Feeling Irregular? Loosen Up With Cinnamon
Constipation is a game-stopper, pun intended. It is uniquely uncomfortable and frustrating. What causes it? A bunch of things from a burst of colder weather to travel, not eating enough fiber-rich foods or drinking too little water. Stress can even bring it on. Relax. Relief is on the way.
What Scent-sational Rx to Use: Pour hot water into an 8- to 12-ounce mug. Add 1 drop of cinnamon essential oil. Repeat as needed.
Why You’ll Feel Essentially Fine: How does cinnamon work? Its compound linalool can relax the intestines and speed up a sluggish digestive system much like the stimulant effect of coffee. A mug or two will help get you right.
Sore Throat A Pain? Lemons To The Rescue
A sore throat is an unwelcome misery that makes itself known whenever you talk and swallow. It may be a sign you’re coming down with a cold or flu (think lavender) or it could be a byproduct of seasonal allergies or simply talking too much. Whatever the cause, thankfully there is an essential oil remedy.
What Scent-sational Rx to Use: Try putting 1 drop of lemon oil in 8 ounces of hot water. Add 1 teaspoon raw honey for taste. Repeat twice daily.
Why You’ll Feel Essentially Fine: The oil has antibacterial and anti-inflammatory properties. This popular oil also may trigger saliva, which can keep the throat hydrated. The combined impact will help ease the pain.
About Cal Orey
Cal Orey, M.A. Is an author and journalist. Her books include the Healing Powers Series (Vinegar, Olive Oil, Chocolate, Honey, Coffee, Tea, Superfoods, and Essential Oils) published by Kensington. (The collection has been featured by the Good Cook Book Club.)
For more information, visit www.calorey.com and www.kensingtonbooks.com
