Essential oils for colds: which active ingredients help?

Read on to find out 

• Do essential oils help with a cold?
• These essential oils help with colds and sore throats
• How to use essential oils for a cold 
• Possible applications for essential oils against colds 

Do essential oils help with a cold

Essential oils are highly concentrated plant essences that are extracted from flowers, leaves, roots, bark or other parts of plants. Naturally pure essential oils contain bioactive compounds that can have a variety of effects on the body and mind. Thanks to their anti-inflammatory, antibacterial, antiviral and antioxidant properties, these oils have been used in naturopathy for centuries. Today, they are used in numerous areas, such as to reduce stress, in skin care or to help with colds.

Essential oils can be used to prevent and alleviate cold symptoms. They influence the natural processes in the body, alleviate symptoms and create an environment that promotes regeneration. The effect of essential oils unfolds via various mechanisms based on the molecular structure and bioactive ingredients. 

• Antibacterial and antiviral properties: Essential oils can inhibit viruses and bacteria. A study from 2021, for example, was able to prove that eucalyptus oil has antimicrobial properties and supports the respiratory tract. 
• Supporting the airways: Some essential oils are known to have an expectorant effect and facilitate coughing. Their ingredients open the airways and promote oxygen uptake. They can also help to soothe irritation in the throat and nose. This provides relief, particularly in the case of a blocked nose or scratchy throat. Mountain pine oil, for example, supports the removal of mucus from the airways. 
• Anti-inflammatory properties: Certain oils, such as camomile oil, have an anti-inflammatory effect and can soothe the mucous membranes. 
• Supporting the immune system: Many naturally pure essential oils strengthen the body's own defences. They promote blood circulation, which improves the supply of nutrients and oxygen. At the same time, they stimulate the natural regeneration processes. Tea tree oil is known to have properties that strengthen the immune system. 
• Promoting relaxation: Aromatherapy with essential oils can increase general well-being. Oils such as lavender or camomile have a relaxing effect and help to improve sleep. Restful sleep is a crucial factor in supporting recovery from a cold. 
• Create a protective environment: Essential oils can interrupt the life cycle of viruses. Some essential oils can damage the arms of viruses, which they need to dock onto organisms. Essential oils can also envelop viruses in the air, bringing them to the ground. A 2020 review concluded that essential oils could be a promising option for the prophylactic and therapeutic treatment of virus-related diseases in the future. For example, a study cited in this review showed that tea tree oil could inhibit viral replication of influenza virus A/PR6.

These essential oils help with colds and sore throats

• Eucalyptus oil: The oil from the leaves of eucalyptus helps to loosen stuck mucus from the sinuses and bronchial tubes, making it easier to cough up. It also has antispasmodic and inhibitory effects on the growth of bacteria. ATTENTION: The oil is not suitable for use on babies and children.
• Camomile oil: Camomile has anti-inflammatory and pain-relieving properties. Chamomile oil helps to clear the airways in the case of colds and sore throats and relieves inflammation of the sinuses and mucous membranes in the nose and mouth. 
• Mountain pine oil: This oil deepens breathing and strengthens the body's defences. It helps to loosen mucus and promote its removal from the respiratory tract. The oil is particularly beneficial for blocked noses and coughs. 
• Lavender oil: This oil is known for its calming, relaxing and sleep-promoting effect. Lavender oil can therefore promote regeneration during and after a cold. 
• Peppermint oil: This oil has a refreshing and clarifying effect at the same time. Peppermint oil opens the airways, loosens mucus and has an antipyretic effect. It is known for its antiviral, antibacterial, antiseptic and anti-inflammatory properties. Its cooling effect also helps with headaches, which is a common side effect of colds. ATTENTION: The oil is not suitable for use on babies and children. 
• Tea tree oil: This oil is valued for its versatile properties. It strengthens the immune system and supports the respiratory tract thanks to its calming and air-purifying effect. The oil has an antibacterial, antiviral and antiseptic effect. Tea tree oil is a popular supplement for alleviating symptoms, particularly in the case of flu-like infections or colds. ATTENTION: Tea tree oil is not suitable for use on babies and children.
• Thyme oil: This oil is known for its expectorant and anti-inflammatory properties. It relaxes the bronchial muscles and promotes the removal of mucus. This makes breathing much easier. Thyme oil supports recovery from coughs and bronchitis. CAUTION: Thyme oil is unsuitable for use on babies and children as it can paralyse the respiratory muscles. 
• Lemon oil: The refreshing and revitalising lemon oil has an antibacterial, antiviral and anti-inflammatory effect. It is often used to strengthen the immune system and purify indoor air. It can also have a soothing effect on fever and aching limbs. 

When using essential oils, it is essential to observe the following instructions for use. These are the basis for the safe and harmless use of scented oils.

How to use essential oils for a cold

There are a few important points to bear in mind when using essential oils. It is recommended that you obtain information from a pharmacy or specialist before use and seek advice on the appropriate essential oil. The following points should also be observed: 

• Dosage: Less is more. Essential oils should never be used undiluted. Excessive concentrations can irritate the skin and mucous membranes. 
• Quality of the oils: We recommend the use of 100% natural, high-quality oils to ensure an effective effect. 
• Allergies: Allergic reactions may occur when using essential oils. The oil should always be tested on a small area first when applying directly or when taking a bath. 
• Babies and children: In general, caution is advised when using essential oils on babies and children. Some essential oils, such as eucalyptus, thyme, tea tree oil, camphor and peppermint (menthol), are not suitable or even life-threatening for children, as they can lead to seizures or respiratory problems. Before using any essential oils, always contact a qualified specialist and ask for advice. 
• Medical advice: In the case of illnesses such as cardiovascular disorders, asthma or varicose veins, the use of essential oils should be clarified with a specialist.

Possible applications for essential oils against colds

Essential oils can be used in a variety of ways to alleviate cold symptoms and support regeneration. Different methods are available depending on the oil and symptoms:

• Inhalation: This is one of the classic methods of using essential oils for colds. A few drops of essential oil are added to hot water. The rising vapour is inhaled with a towel over your head. Eucalyptus, peppermint and mountain pine oils are particularly suitable for inhalation. 
• Aroma diffuser: An aroma diffuser distributes the essential oil in the room air. The fragrance is continuously absorbed through breathing and the air is scented at the same time. All commercially available pure essential oils are suitable for use in an aroma diffuser. 
• Rubbing: For this, 2-3 drops of essential oil are diluted in a carrier oil (e.g. almond or jojoba oil). This method helps to open the airways and provides a relaxing effect through massage. Thyme, mountain pine and eucalyptus oils are particularly suitable for this type of application. 
• Baths: A warm cold bath with essential oils can promote circulation and loosen mucus. To do this, mix around 5-10 drops of oil in an emulsifier (e.g. milk or honey) and add to the bath water. 

Essential oils offer a natural way to alleviate cold symptoms and increase well-being - whether as a scented oil in a diffuser, as an inhalation or a soothing massage. When using essential oils for colds, pay attention to the quality, dosage and your individual needs. With essential oils such as eucalyptus, lavender and peppermint, you can gently and effectively alleviate cold symptoms.

Would you like to learn more about how aromatherapy works and how it can help you feel better and improve your mood?

More about aromatherapy

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