The Alternative Medicine GuideUsing Essential Oils for AsthmaThe Alternative Medicine Guide
The Alternative Medicine Guide to Using Essential Oils for Asthma Treatment
Asthma is an extremely common respiratory condition that affects millions of people of all ages globally. While conventional treatments such as inhalers, steroid-based inhalers, and anti-inflammatory medications are the cornerstone of treatment, many individuals are now looking towards alternative medicine for relief and control of their asthma.
Essential oils are one of the more popular holistic treatment options for asthma, as many have anti-inflammatory, decongestant, and antispasmodic properties. Depending on the severity of the individual’s asthma, some essential oils can be used to help relief symptoms or even completely manage asthma.
Which Essential Oils Can Treat Asthma?
Below is list of several essential oils which have been known to be used in alternative asthma treatments.
- Eucalyptus Oil: Eucalyptus oil has long been the go-to for treating asthma and bronchitis due to its strong anti-inflammatory properties. It can reduce swelling of the airways and opens them to reduce the strain on the respiratory system.
- Peppermint Oil: Peppermint oil has antispasmodic, decongestant and antimicrobial properties that can help reduce the severity of coughs and bronchial spasms.
- Cardamom Oil: Cardamom oil is known for its ability to reduce inflammation of the respiratory tract and improve oxygenation of the lungs.
- Lavender Oil: Lavender oil is one of the most widely used oils to reduce stress and anxiety levels. Consistent breathing problems can lead to stress and anxiety, so using lavender oil can help create a more balanced mental state.
- Tea Tree Oil: Tea tree oil has anti-inflammatory and antiseptic properties that can help reduce inflammation in the airways and help to prevent bacterial infections.
How to Use Essential Oils to Treat Asthma
There are several ways to use essential oils to treat asthma.
- Diffusing: Diffusing essential oil is a great way to disperse the oils’ benefits throughout the air to be inhaled. A blend of few of the oils mentioned above can be used for a more comprehensive effect.
- Massage: Many oils can be applied topically. Massaging the oils, specifically eucalyptus, lavender, and peppermint, into the skin on the chest can help open up the airways and reduce asthma symptoms.
- Steam Inhalation: Inhaling essential oils can be beneficial and can be done using steam inhalation or with a humidifier.
It is important to remember that although essential oils can be useful in reducing asthma symptoms, they are not meant to be used instead of conventional treatments and should not be used without speaking to your doctor first.
Essential oils can help to reduce stress, inflammation, and spasms associated with asthma, so with proper use they can be beneficial in the management of this respiratory condition.
