Tis the season to be jolly and also the time of year when our immune systems have to work their hardest. Winter colds and viruses are prevalent and while eating well and maintaining fitness levels can help us to stay fit and healthy, all of us need a little extra help from time to time.

Aromatherapy can help in many ways and essential oils are a useful tool in treating symptoms in a non invasive and holistic way.

As many essential oils are bactericidal and stimulate the body’s ability to fight infection, they can not only lessen the discomfort of coughs and colds but also help to reduce the risk of secondary, more serious infections, such as bronchitis or sinusitis.

Another irritation that a lot of us can suffer from around this time of year is more self inflicted – a hangover! Of course, avoiding excessive drinking in the first place is the most sensible course of action, however if you feel a little worse for wear, essential oils can help!

Here are some simple and effective ways to use essential oils to treat minor ailments.

Aromatherapy Baths – add 3 drops off essential oil to 20 mls of semi skimmed or full fat milk and add to a bath.

Steam Inhalations – fill a bowl with hot water and place a towel over your head. The water should be as hot as can be tolerated without burning the nose or throat. Add 2 drops of essential oil and breathe deeply through the nose and mouth.

Decongestant Gel – add 2 drops of essential oil to 4 teaspoons of aloe vera gel and mix together (the gel will turn white as you mix them together). Apply the gel to your chest, throat and upper back and breath deeply. For fans of reflexology you can also apply the gel to the soles of your feet so that your reflex points receive the benefit of aromatherapy as well.

Massage – add 3 drops of essential oil to 20mls of carrier oil for a body massage or 1 drop of essential oil to 20mls of carrier oil for facial massage or for sensitive skin.

Essential Oils

Colds –lavender or marjoram can be used at any time of day and can aid restful sleep. Rosemary or ti-tree oil are also very effective but should only be used in the earlier part of the day as they are both quite stimulating.

Coughs and Sore Throats – sandalwood, lavender, frankincense and marjoram are all excellent for coughs. Sandalwood is particularly good for dry coughs and frankincense is especially soothing for sore throats.

Hangovers – rosemary essential oil is excellent for hangovers as it is detoxifying and can clear a foggy head. As rosemary is a stimulating oil it should only be used during the day. Lavender or frankincense are relaxing and can aid a restful sleep.

Please note that these recommendations are for minor ailments only. If symptoms persist, please seek medical advice.

Pregnant women should be cautious when using essential oils and should seek advice from an aromatherapist before use. The quantities above are recommended for adults. If you would like recommendations for dilutions suitable for children, would like to book a treatment or have any other queries please contact me at amanda@amandawilsontherapy.com