Nasal congestion can make your life miserable and sometimes you don’t want to reach for those over-the-counter decongestants. Thankfully, essential oils could be exactly the solution you’re looking for. Certain oils are known for clearing the nasal passages, relieving sinus pressure, and keeping your sinuses healthy.
10 Essential Oils That Keep Your Sinuses Healthy
1. Menthol
While menthol has been used to soothe sore throats for years, it’s also very good for clearing congested sinuses. The icy scent of this essential oil will usually work wonders on your sinuses so that’s why it’s a go-to homemade remedy.
2. Peppermint
Peppermint oil is effective for clearing your sinuses because it contains menthol. Most people like inhaling peppermint oil, though, because it’s not as intense but still has a cooling effect on the sinuses. Interestingly, studies show that peppermint oil has an anti-inflammatory effect on your nasal passages.
3. Eucalyptus
You may have noticed that a lot of over-the-counter decongestants contain eucalyptus oil. Well, there’s a reason for that. Studies show that the oil is great for reducing inflammation, soothing headaches, and clearing congestion. Doctors estimate that this relief is caused by a compound known as cineole.
You May Also Like
RELATED: 5 Ways You Never Thought To Use Essential Oils
4. Lemon
This oil not only smells wonderful but it has also been shown to have great antibacterial and anti-inflammatory properties. This means that using it can help to ease your nasal congestion as well as keep your sinuses healthy.
5. Tea Tree
Tea tree oil contains alpha-sabine, which has good antimicrobial properties. Additionally, the oil reduces the swelling that can cause nasal congestion. Using it can be helpful when you’re having a stuffy nose.
6. Turmeric
While turmeric is often touted for its health benefits when consumed, it can also be beneficial when the oil is inhaled. Turmeric’s antimicrobial and anti-inflammatory properties may help to ease swelling as well as congestion.
7. Oregano
Apart from easing congestion, oregano oil may help you recover from inflamed sinuses as well. That’s because the oil has been shown to stop bacterial growth.
You May Also Like
RELATED: Essential Oils for Pain: Healing From Head To Toe With Lavender
8. Lavender
Lavender oil is well known for its calming properties but it may also help with nasal congestion. According to a recent study inhaling lavender oil can reduce swelling and pain in your sinuses.
9. Clary Sage
This is another essential oil that may be effective against the growth of bacteria that can lead to nasal congestion.
10. Rosemary
Rosemary oil has been shown to have effective antimicrobial and anti-inflammatory properties. Additionally, inhaling the oil can soothe coughs.
RELATED: 5 Healing Essential Oils To Keep on You at All Times
How To Use Essential Oils
The most effective way to use essential oils is through inhalation. The first option is steam inhalation where you place three to seven drops of the essential oil in a pot of hot water. After placing a towel over your head, you can inhale the steam for two minutes or less. Alternatively, you can add the oil to a hot bath or diffuser. Finally, you can inhale the essential oil directly by placing it on a cotton ball or from a bottle.
It’s important to note that you should never use undiluted essential oil directly on your skin as they can be irritating. Dermatologists recommend using carrier oils like olive oil, sweet almond oil, and jojoba oil. Even if you dilute them, it’s best to test them on a small area of your body to ensure that you won’t have an allergic reaction.
When To See A Doctor
Sometimes, your congestion can be caused by something more serious than allergies or a cold. In that case, you’ll need to see a doctor. A few signs that you need to make that call include if the congestion lasts for longer than 10 days, if you have a fever, if there’s blood in your nasal discharge, or if the nasal discharge is yellow.
When you’re dealing with nasal congestion regularly, you’re likely looking for an easy way to take care of it. Essential oils are a great way to naturally ease your congestion and keep your sinuses healthy. If they don’t work for you, though, it might be time to see your doctor.
