Nasal congestion can be caused by infections such as the cold or flu, allergies, or even environmental aspects such as dry air or tobacco smoke. Whatever the cause may be, congestion can definitely be annoying, frustrating, and inhibiting for normal day to day function. Some essential oils may have the ability to clear up congestion, alleviate discomfort, and allow you to breathe a little easier.
Peppermint Oil
In addition to a pleasant minty and refreshing scent, peppermint oil contains menthol, which may open up airways, clearing mucus, and allowing the user to breathe a little easier. Peppermint oil may also contain antibacterial properties, which may help fight bacteria, which can cause sinus congestion.
You can purchase 100% pure peppermint essential oil here.
Eucalyptus Oil
Used in many chest rubs, and other over-the-counter decongestants, eucalyptus oil is believed to relieve cold and flu symptoms, such as headaches, nasal congestion, and runny noses.
You can purchase 100% pure eucalyptus essential oil here.
Lavender Oil
In addition to possibly helping you relax and sleep a little better at night, lavender is believed to provide a pain-relieving effect, as well as reduce inflammation.
You can purchase 100% pure lavender essential oil here.
Rosemary Oil
Believed to be an anti-inflammatory, rosemary oil may help relieve inflammation of swollen sinuses.
You can purchase 100% pure rosemary essential oil here.
Tea Tree Oil
Tea tree oil is believed to possess antiviral, antibacterial, as well as antifungal properties that may have a positive impact on sinus congestion. It may also help with reducing inflammation, which can be another cause, or contributing factor, of congestion.
You can purchase 100% pure eucalyptus tea tree essential oil here.
Oregano Oil
Oregano oil is believed to possess antiviral, anti-inflammatory, and antioxidant properties that may be beneficial for cold and flu symptoms. In addition to being useful aromatically, oregano oil is also available as a tincture, in capsule form, and can even be found as an ingredient in throat sprays.
You can purchase 100% pure oregano essential oil here.
Ginger Oil
Ginger oil is believed to not only possess antioxidant, anti-inflammatory, antiviral, and detoxifying properties, but may also help relieve symptoms of nausea, which may come along with congestion and increased mucus production.
You can purchase 100% pure ginger essential oil here.
Safe Usage
If you are interested in utilizing essential oils for congestion relief, one of the best ways to reap the benefits include utilizing an oil diffuser. To do so, place a suggested 3 to 5 drops (per 100 mL of water) of your desired essential oil(s) into your diffuser.
If you do not have a diffuser, you may also find that boiling water, and utilizing the same ratio of essential oils to water, will allow the oil to diffuse into the steam, and when inhaled, may produce the same effect.
Some of our favorite essential oils to help with congestion, include peppermint, eucalyptus, tea tree, rosemary, and lavender oils. These oils we have blended together inside our Breathe nasal inhaler, to provide convenient on-the-go relief.
If you are unsure of how you will react to any essential oil, or you have any known allergies, you may want to consult a healthcare professional before use. If you experience any discomfort, irritation, or you feel like your congestion may be getting worse, discontinue use, and consult a physician. Never ingest any essential oils unless the product specifies it is intended for oral consumption and you are directed to do so by a healthcare professional.