Antiviral Essential Oils

How often have you, a family member or someone you know come down with a cold? Probably often enough to wonder what essential oils might be helpful. Here we’re going to explore antiviral essential oils and how they really help us.

The misnomer of antiviral. . .

Before we get to far, I want to clear something up for you. When you consider the chemistry of an essential oil and its potency, technically all essential oils can be said to have antiviral properties.

If all essential oils have the capacity to be antiviral, then how do we choose which essential oils to use during a cold? This depends on the type of cold you have and the symptoms you are exhibiting.

Soothing a cold

It's important to keep in mind that colds are virals. Each viral produces a set of symptoms within the human body. Your immune system’s ability to recover from a viral will determine how challenging the symptoms will feel during each stage of the virus.

When you get a cold and all you feel is congestion, you might want to reach for something higher in 1,8 cineole like Blue Gum Eucalyptus (Eucalyptus globulus) or if it is moderate Rosemary ct. cineole (Rosmarinus officinalis ct cineole).

If you are like me and can tell you are about to come down with a head cold but aren’t quite feeling congestion, Lemon Ironbark Eucalyptus (Eucalyptus staigeriana) or Tea Tree (Melaleuca alternifolia) are great choices.

Another symptom often felt during a cold is a sore throat. Sandalwood diluted and applied topically can be very soothing on a sore throat.

Essential oils like Virginia Cedarwood (Juniperus virginiana) or even Lavender (Lavandula angustifolia) can soothe a spastic cough while allowing us an opportunity to rest.

When we feel the last few days of sniffles and need a little respiratory support oils like Scotch Pine (Pinus Sylvestris) or Cypress (Cupressus sempervirens) can be very helpful.

Sometimes we just need a little support from my two favorite unsung heroes during colds – cold pressed Lime (Citrus aurantifolia) or Palmarosa (Cymbopogon martini).

How essential oils really help us

Keep in mind that using essential oils doesn’t get rid of viruses. Using essential oils allows us to temporarily feel a little better by managing symptoms, just like taking Dayquil or NyQuil would. When we are getting enough rest, nourish our bodies and use essential oils, we support the body in its most important job – to keep us healthy and in balance.

The essential oils I list above can be used in different combinations to support you during your cold. Get the essential oils you need here get our Seasonal Wellness Kit.