As we get further into spring and more plants come to life, the air we breathe starts to change.

For many people the smell of fresh air, newly cut blades of grass, and blooming plants bring joy. Yet for others, these smells can bring congestion, a runny nose, and even illness.

However, it’s not just allergies that can keep you from breathing well. Things such as a cold, flu, sinus, or chest infection could also keep you from breathing well.

One possible way to clear up your respiratory system is by using one of the oldest methodology known to humans called aromatherapy. This is the use of fragrant essential oils for therapeutic purposes. Before I offer some essential oil options to help breathe more clearly, it is important to check with your doctor before starting aromatherapy so it doesn’t cause any harm.

You can also dilute one drop of essential oil with several drops of a carrier oil (i.e. olive, grapeseed, coconut, etc.) and place one drop of the solution on your forearm. If there is no reddening or inflammation for 24 hours it should be safe for use.

Eucalyptus oil – this one of the most commonly used oil when it comes to treating congestion. Eucalyptus can be found in many lozenges, cough syrups, and vapor rubs. Adding a few drops of eucalyptus to a carrier oil to make a homemade rub, or carefully diluting it in gently boiling water and inhaling the steam are two healthy ways to use the oil.

Peppermint – another oil common in the respiratory health industry, as well as its byproduct menthol. Peppermint is great for stomach pains or cramps, as well as bringing some muscular relief. However, it is the menthol in the peppermint that will help ease the dryness and scratchiness of an irritated throat. This is another oil that can be diffused, carefully inhaled through steam, and even by adding a drop to cupped hands followed by deep inhales.

Frankincense – one of the most highly prized and biblical aromas used in perfumes and incense. Frankincense is a powerful aid in respiratory health that has been used to treat coughs, catarrh, asthma, and bronchitis. This oil can be safely diffused or topically applied.

Tea tree oil – believed to have been used by the Bundjalung people of Eastern Australia, tea tree leaves were crushed up and inhaled as means to treat cough and cold. Safe for diffusion and topical application–you don’t have to go to the outback to get your hands on this oil or any previous. Just ask us here at Apex!