Flu is an illness of the respiratory system which is extremely contagious and is caused by influenza, i.e., A or B viruses. It attacks the body usually in the times of winter season. The flu virus spreads in the lower or upper tract of the respiration system of the body.
Approximately 20% of the people in the United States develop flu every year. Essential oils for flu may help relieve the condition to a great extent. There are more than 100 types of viruses that cause the flu, and new viruses evolve every year.
Thus, this disease has no end basically and keeps on recurring even after your body immunes itself from one type of virus, a different kind of virus attacks the body and causes the infection.
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Essential oils are plant extracts and are used for curing many ailments and diseases since centuries. Essential oils for flu have antiviral, astringent, anti-inflammatory, warming, antimicrobial, antibacterial, expectorant, pain-relieving, and disinfectant properties which provide relief in the condition of the flu to the sufferer(1). They improve circulation and enhance the immune system.
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Tea tree oil is a natural remedy for getting rid of the Flu. The oil has antibacterial, antiseptic, and antiviral properties which make it a great alternative to synthetic chemicals and flu medications. It diminishes bronchial congestion, sore throats, and coughs. It helps to kill germs and acts as an excellent disinfectant.
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The main components of coconut oils are MCFAs (Medium- Chain Fatty Acids). They have great antimicrobial effects and kill disease-causing microorganisms(2). They efficiently kill fungi, viruses, and bacteria in the body. Coconut oil is the best treatment for the flu caused due to the infections housed on the body through a virus. It is very beneficial for toddler flu.
CBD oil or Cannabis oil has a lot of vitamins and minerals which improve your health condition. Along with antibacterial, it has antiviral, anti-aging, wound-healing, and moisturizing properties. It tackles the cold, cough, and other concerns associated with the flu readily.
Cypress essential oil is an excellent solution to cure the flu aches. It has an anti-toxic effect which helps relieve cold and flu. It also has natural anti-inflammatory and antispasmodic properties which help ease the congestion and sore throats associated with the flu condition and infection. It also has pain relieving properties and assists in providing relief from pain in the muscles during the flu.
Thyme essential oil is an excellent decongestant and helps to fight fatigue. It is a natural stress reliever and also an antidepressant. Its antiviral properties help in fighting the flu and colds. It is rich in ricinoleic acid which helps fight the virus causing the flu.
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Oregano oil is a super-effective essential oil for treating the flu. It has antimicrobial and antiviral properties which drastically reduce the symptoms usually seen in the sufferers of the upper respiratory tract ailments. It cures coughs, colds, and sore throats. It is an efficient remedy for chest and nose congestion and eases breathing. It is also useful in treating chesty coughs.
Clary sage essential oil has numerous health benefits and uses. It has antiseptic, digestive, antispasmodic, antidepressant, anticonvulsive, antibacterial, astringent, carminative, sedative, stomachic, and nervine properties(3). It helps relieve pain, cough, cold, soreness, blockage in the nose, and chest congestion during the flu infection and condition. It also helps fight fatigue. These properties make it one of the most effective essential oils for flu.
Juniper berry essential oil has antimicrobial and antibacterial abilities. It treats infections and allergies very well. The oil detoxifies the body and serves as an excellent remedy for treating the flu. It has antirheumatic, stimulating, diuretic, antiseptic, depurative, antiviral, and stomachic properties to have a powerful effect on the curing of the flu, and for detoxifying the body.
Eucalyptus oil has antiviral, antiseptic and antibacterial properties which help make the body free from the bacteria and viruses that cause or make the flu infection severe. It is an excellent remedy for reducing chesty coughs and eases breathing. It acts as a detoxifying agent.
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Peppermint oil is a fantastic cleanser and decongestant for your body. It has a pungent, cooling, clean, and menthol aroma which unlocks the nose and chest congestion. It revives the depleted energy levels and enhances the immune system. It battles fatigue and improves concentration. The oil is helpful in soothing nausea and stomach flu. It also relieves sore muscles, body aches, and muscles spasms. It is one of the most beneficial essential oils for flu.
Essential oils may cause specific side effects like irritation on the skin, rashes, etc. These reactions occur when your skin is sensitive towards the oils. Check the oils properly before using on the surface.
The direct application of the essential oils on the skin does not suit everybody and can exaggerate the allergy by the infection. Overly sensitive skin is not able to adopt all the essential oils for flu and may get highly itchy after use.
Always close the lid of the oils properly after every use. It is recommended to use the oils only after consulting your doctor. You can also take a patch test at the back of your hand to be thoroughly sure about the receptivity of your skin towards the oil.
Peppermint oil has a cooling effect. Direct application of the oil on the skin might not be the right way to use it; especially on sensitive skin. Your doctor might be able to help you better. Make sure you consult with him before applying any oil on your body.
Flu can be treated permanently with essential oils; however, with a new species of virus, the problem may reoccur. Also, in severe cases, flu medication may be required.
Essential oils for flu are a house of natural remedies. The flu and its infection effects can be treated entirely with the regular and accurate use of essential oils along with taking necessary precautions.
Happy health your way with essential oils!