Each time the seasons change, a lot of us experience sinus headaches, sinus pressure and breathing problems. There’s actually some very good essential oils for the changing seasons to help you deal with sinus problems – did you know that?
Why Do I Have Sinus Problems When The Seasons Change?
The biggest reasons people have more sinus problems when the seasons change are things like pollen, ragweed, change in barometric pressure, humidity and temperature. If you live in an area where it’s 65 degrees one day and 85 degrees the next, you know your sinuses take a beating!
All of these changes whether they are gradual or sudden, cause a build up of sinus pressure which in turn causes sinus headaches, sinus infections, sneezing, watery eyes and many times, trouble breathing.
If it’s windy, you know it’s going to bring in gawd-knows-what and of course, that will affect your sinuses.
According to WebMD.com, when your sinuses become blocked and filled with fluid, germs can grow and cause an infection.
How Do Essential Oils Help With Sinus Problems?
Essential oils are excellent for sinus and respiratory issues as they can help open up your airways, act as expectorants and keep the fluid moving in your sinuses (possibly preventing a sinus infection). Many essential oils are also excellent anti-inflammatories, anti-virals and anti-bacterials. Use the same caution with essential oils as you would with any type of medication.
Here are a few essential oils for sinus problems that are excellent:
Eucalyptus
Eucalyptus (Eucalyptus globulus) is an excellent oil for opening up airways, supporting healthy lung function and boosting your immune system. This oil is often used in the presence of bacterial, fungal, or viral activity. The best way to use Eucalyptus is to put two drops in a steaming bowl of water, drape a towel over your head and breathe in as deeply as possible 2 or 3 times daily. This oil should only be used with adults and children over the age of 10.
Tea Tree
Tea Tree (Melaleuca alternafolia) is known as the workhorse of essential oils. It is often the first choice when looking to reduce infections caused by unwanted bacteria or fungus – especially sinus infections. Tea Tree essential oil is great for reducing minor inflammation as well. It supports a healthy respiratory system and is useful for treating coughs and other lung ailments. You can use Tea Tree the same way as Eucalyptus by putting a couple of drops in a steaming hot bowl of water and breathing in. This oil is safe for children over the age of 2.
Peppermint
Peppermint (Mentha x piperita) essential oil is respected for its many therapeutic properties and is helpful in reducing unwanted bacteria and viruses as well as reduce pain and inflammation. It’s also a popular choice for clearing the respiratory system and can be of great help with allergy relief. Take great care in using Peppermint essential oil if you are on blood thinners as this could cause nose bleeds. This oil should only be used with adults and children over the age of 10.
Oregano
Oregano (Origanum vulgare) is another one of nature’s powerhouse oils. Along with helping to purify the body and surrounding environment from unwanted microbial activity, Oregano is a fantastic oil for healthy lung support, especially when one is dealing with a cold or flu.
It’s packed with potent antibacterial, anti-fungal, anti-viral, and analgesic properties, and is ideal for treating a myriad of infections, both inside and outside of the body. CAUTION: YOU MUST DILUTE THIS OIL BEFORE YOU APPLY IT TO YOUR SKIN! Combine one ounce of olive oil and no more than 5 drops of Oregano oil and apply to your chest if you’re experiencing chest congestion. Use this oil very sparingly and not on children under 10.
Lavender
Lavender (Lavendula angustifolia) is one of those oils that I recommend no matter what the situation. This oil is gentle enough for a two-year old, has anti-bacterial, anti-fungal and anti-inflammatory properties as well as being a very good analgesic.
If sinus issues are causing stress – they often do, Lavender is amazing for de-stressing!
You can combine one drop of each of the above oils in a cold mist diffuser and let it run for 30 minutes every 2 hours to help relieve your symptoms and to clear the air in your home.
Other Things You Can Do
Don’t forget to change the air filter in your HVAC unit – it makes sense to spend a bit more and get a good HEPA filter. Air purifiers will help keep the air cleaner in your home oh – and did I mention drinking more water will help?
I make some products that help you deal with sinus issues and have them ready for sale on the Scented Balance website:
- Headache Ease Aromatherapy Roller Ball – helps with sinus headaches
- SinusRight Personal Nasal Inhaler – keeps your head clear and also helps with sinus headaches and sinus pressure
- ChestEZ Decongestant Rub – I make a version for adults AND for children ages 2 – 10
If the sinus medication you use makes you drowsy or feel disconnected, why not give aromatherapy a try? I believe you’ll notice a difference and you won’t experience any negative side-effects.
How can I help you with your sinus problems? Please fill out this short contact form and let’s talk!
Blessings,
Melissa
P.S. Know someone who suffers with sinus problems? Please do them a favor and share this post with them!
*These statements have not been evaluated by the Food and Drug Administration. These products are not intended to diagnose, treat, cure or prevent any disease.