Late yesterday I noticed a scratchy sensation growing in my upper chest. I have not, to my knowledge, had exposure to any illness this week and it may be allergy related but I initiated my resistance protocol last night. I slathered my chest rub blend on my chest and neck and enjoyed some Cedarwood and Thyme ct. linalool in my diffuser before bed last night. This morning it has not progressed but it is still present. Time to break out phase two of my resistance and fire up my diffuser in my office. Of course I will be eating wisely today and upping my vitamin C for the next few days to support my body in its war against what is most likely a virus.
Eucalyptus globulus
I would venture to guess that Eucalyptus would be the go to for most people when it comes to combating a respiratory invader! Eucalyptus is one of the most researched essential oils thus there is a vast amount of information available to support the decision to incorporate it in a blend intended to slow or cease the progression of a respiratory infection. High in the oxide 1,8 cineole syn. Eucalyptol this oil is an excellent choice for its mucolytic and secretolytic properties as well as its anti-bacterial, anti-viral, anti-inflammatory, and the expectorant qualities, which are thought to be a result of stimulation which increases the motility of the ciliated epithelium which lines the bronchial tree. This, in combination with the potential to increase secretions makes it easier for the body to expel the unwanted guests invading our lungs. Eucalyptus also uplifts the spirits and clears the mind which is beneficial when you are feeling down trodden as a result of being sick.
Ravensara aromatica
Another powerful oil that comes to mind when dealing with respiratory issues would be Ravensara. Anti-microbial, Anti-inflammatory, and expectorant qualities make this a good addition but it is the potential antispasmodic effect that makes it desirable for dealing with respiratory issues as well. It helps keep the nagging cough down to a minimum. Ravensara has a protective and cleansing nature which makes it ideal to diffuse when feeling sick to help clear the air. This oil is also high in 1,8 cineole backed up by monoterpenes which add to the therapeutics of this blend by opening up breathing space, promoting secretion movement, and fighting airborne microbials. Ravintsara would be an excellent choice here however Ravensara is the oil on hand at the moment.
Citrus limon
Rich in monoterpenes, particularly d-limonene lemon is an excellent choice for purifying the air. Strong anti-microbial action isn’t the only reason this was selected. I chose it to help elevate my energy level today as well. It has a fresh lively scent which uplifts and energizes well.
Melaleuca alternifolia
Again the selection of Tea Tree for the purpose of a respiratory illness, onset or prevention, should be easily recognized as common. This oil is replete with anti-microbial and anti-viral properties due to the monoterpene alcohol terpinen-4-ol. This oil also adds decongestive properties to the blend as well as anti-inflammatory properties. Emotionally Tea Tree is a protective oil that gives the recipient strength. Looking at working 24 out of the next 48 hours at the hospital I definitely need this benefit! Along with Lemon, Tea Tree is also a good air purifying agent.
Laurus nobilis
Laurel Leaf is a broad spectrum antimicrobial and a potent antiviral oil as well. Laurel Leaf Essential OIl is one of my favorite when dealing with respiratory infections of unknown etiology. Most likely this is a viral issue but in the event that it is bacterial I feel that I am covered with this blend. Laurel is a great stimulant for the lymphatic system as well and lymph movement is important when battling any infectious process in the body. It is the lymph system that removes the offending invaders from your body. In the chest rub blend I mentioned earlier Laurel Leaf is one of the ingredients for just this purpose.
Mentha piperita
Chosen in the blend for the refreshing and cooling sensation that only peppermint can deliver. Like being young and unwrapping a piece of Wrigley’s gum… remember? The shiny foil, which would inevitably be peeled away from the wax paper backing and then added to the adornments of your book cover or school desk. That fresh peppermint smell would waft up and you would start drooling in anticipation for the cool menthol rush you were about to experience. Yeah… like that. Opening up breathing space and cooling the growing and nagging fire in the depths of my throat peppermint brings comfort to this blend. Uplifting and invigorating and a good choice for a daytime diffuser blend to fight off a bug.
Namaste,
Ida
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