Health
| Keep colds at bay the natural way |
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Mary Turner explains how lavender, tea tree and eucalyptus oils have a role to play in boosting the immune system. Little frustrates doctors more than surgeries filled with people suffering from ordinary coughs and colds. Given that a doctor’s time is better spent on the seriously ill what, if anything, can we do to help ourselves when colds and flu make us feel bad?Carl Watson, Consultant Aromatherapist at Tisserand Aromatherapy, suggests using essential oils that are effective against colds and flu. Tea tree, eucalyptus and lavender oils all fight infection and strengthen the immune system. Tea tree has been used for centuries in Australia. It is a powerful oil which is antibacterial and antiviral. It is especially good against fevers. Like lavender, tea tree can be used directly on the skin, but Carl stresses that it is important not to take any of the essential oils internally. Stroke one drop on the throat or use it in inhalations and in baths. As well as fighting infection, lavender promotes sleep, which is essential for the healing process. Try a drop of oil on your pillow or in your bath water. Eucalyptus is excellent for clearing sinuses and blocked noses. Use two drops of oil in an inhalation or on a handkerchief or pillow. For young children, put one drop of eucalyptus oil in a vaporiser in their room at night. All three oils work well individually, but are more effective when used together. At the first sign of a cold, use the three oils in a comfortably hot bath before going to bed. Carl suggests using just two drops of each in two teaspoons of carrier oil. The carrier oil (use olive or almond oil to soften skin) is essential as neat eucalyptus oil can cause skin irritation. |
