Congestion occurs when there is a blockage in the nasal passages, sinuses, or upper respiratory tract (chest). This blockage is caused by inflamed tissues and blood vessels due to increased mucus production.
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Symptoms of congestion:
- Stuffiness
- Nasal discharge
- Coughing
- Headache
- Difficulty breathing
- Chest tightness
Causes of congestion:
- Exposure to cold temperatures
- Allergies/allergens (food, pet hair, milk, medication, smoke, dust etc.)
- Fragrances (perfumes, colones, air freshers, laundry soap, fabric softeners)
- Household cleaners
- Cigarette smoke/smoking
- Common cold/Influenza
Congestion usually responds to essential oil treatments because many of them have anti-inflammatory and expectorant (loosens and clears mucus and phlegm from the respiratory tract) properties.
There are three different methods of application that can be used to treat congestion with essential oils.
- Steam treatment
- Chest/back rub
- Diffusing
Here are my favorite essential oils for the symptoms of congestion:
Congestion Steam Treatment (my favorite for immediate relief)
- 2 cups of hot water
- 2 drops Rosemary
- 2 drops Cardamom
- 1 drop Peppermint
- 1 drop Tea Tree (Melaleuca)
- 1 drop Frankincense
- In a glass bowl, add the hot water along with the above essential oils and stir.
- Sit or stand in a comfortable position.
- With a towel, make a tent over your head and bowl with hot water.
- Breathe in the aroma for about 5-10 minutes.
- Repeat the treatment every 2-3 hours as needed.
Have Kleenex handy!
Congestion Chest Rub
- 2 ounces carrier oil ( I use organic Grapeseed or Sunflower Seed oil)
- 4 drops Eucalyptus
- 2 drops Tea Tree (Melaleuca)
- 2 drops Rosemary
- 1 drop Marjoram
- 1 drop Frankincense
- In a dark-colored glass bottle (I reuse my empty oil bottles), combine the carrier oil and essential oils, shake to blend.
- Add several drops to the palm of your hand and rub on your chest and back.
- Repeat several times a day as needed.
- Store in a cool, dry place.
Congestion Diffuser Blend
- 3 drops Eucalyptus
- 2 drops Peppermint
- 2 drops Frankincense
- 2 drops Myrrh
Fill your diffuser with water as directed by the manufacture and then add the essential oils. Place in the room where you spend the most time. Diffuse in the morning and at bedtime.
Are you ready to take control of your congestion symptoms naturally?
You can order these amazing essential oils directly from my site: doTERRA
FREE Essential Oils Ebook for Beginners: Audible eBook or PDF eBook
Respiratory Integrative Medicine 