Aromatherapy & Asthma

Using Essential Oils to Reduce the Symptoms of Asthma

More than 20 million Americans live with asthma and more than 4000 people die of asthma every year. Conventional medications are routinely taken but recent studies indicate that as many as 50% of asthma sufferers use alternative remedies, including aromatherapy and essential oils to treat their asthma. (Blanc PD, Trupin L, Earnest G, Katz PP, Yelin EH, Eisner MD (2001). “Alternative therapies among adults with a reported diagnosis of asthma or rhinosinusitis : data from a population-based survey.” Chest 120 (5): 1461–7.)

What is Asthma?

Asthma is characterized by the inflammation of the lungs. The wheezing of asthma is made by the effort to push air through the swollen, narrowed bronchial passages. The afflicted person will gasp and labor for breath in an attempt to exhale stale air through the swollen and clogged bronchia.

Asthma Triggers

Airborne allergens are one of the most common triggers of asthma. Asthma can also be triggered by emotional upsets, stress, chemicals, cigarette smoke, exercise and by eating certain foods (such as dairy products). Avoiding known asthma triggers and being aware of potential triggers will help. Chronic airway inflammation can lead to sensitivity to pollen, tobacco smoke, air pollution, mold and animal dander.

Essential Oils and Asthma Care

Essential oils have a calming, anti-spasmodic effect for asthmatics. They facilitate an emotional balance, relieving symptoms of asthma. If symptomatic, get into the habit of using anti-inflammatory essential oils on a regular basis. Diffuse them around home and workplace, use them in the bath or shower, and apply diluted to the body.

Immune System and Essential Oils

Keep your immune system boosted by diffusing Lemongrass essential oil and Eucalyptus Citriodora essential oil around the home or office. Use it in the bath or shower or place on cotton balls and place in strategic locations.

Lungs and Essential Oils

To help keep the lungs clear and free and open the airways, do breathing exercises and inhale a blend of Lavender essential oil, Bergamot essential oil and Eucalyptus Citriodora essential oil. Put one drop of each into five milliliters of Rosehip oil and massage onto chest.

Put lavender essential oil into a bowl of very hot water, drape a towel over the head and inhale. This method clears the airways and cleanses the skin as an added benefit. Use as often as necessary.

Aromatherapy Essential Oil Rubs for Asthmatics

Asthma aromatherapy recipe for children ages one to five:

Add to 20mls of Jojoba oil. Rub on chest and back.

Asthma Aromatherapy Recipe for Children ages five to 12:

Add to 20mls of Jojoba oil. Rub on chest and back.

Essential Oils to use During an Asthma Attack

Keep a bottle of the following blend on hand in case of an asthma attack. Add equal parts Lavender essential oil , Marjoram essential oil and Cedarwood essential oil to a bottle. When having an asthma attack, put five drops of the essential oil blend onto a warm, damp cloth; cover nose and mouth and breath as deeply as possible.

Use essential oils such as Frankincense essential oil, Lavender essential oil, Marjoram essential oil, Geranium essential oil and Eucalyptus Citriodora essential oil to naturally boost the immune system, calm and relax the mind and body, and reduce the symptoms of asthma.

*This is educational information and any opinions expressed here-in do not replace professional medical advice. If you are ill, see a suitably qualified medical practitioner.*

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