Immune system is very important in the human body so that one can be able to overcome diseases and other infections that may occur. Another natural way that people can support their immune system is by incorporating essential oils. Some of the oils can inhibit viruses, bacteria, and inflammation and help strengthen the immune system of the body. Here are some of the top essential oils to try:Here are some of the top essential oils to try:
1. Eucalyptus
Eucalyptus oil contains eucalyptol, which has the ability to kill specific bacteria and viruses through its antimicrobial activity. Some published works suggest that eucalyptus oil can support immune system function and alleviate symptoms of the upper respiratory tract infection. The smell is fresh and minty like you would expect from a mint – there is even a sense that it is capable of helping to clear out sinus passages and mucus. Put a few drops in different rooms in the house or you can add them to warm bath water to aid in breathing.
2. Oregano
Oregano is one of the most important and valuable herbs and oregano essential oil is extracted from this natural herb. Carvacrol and thymol are the two phenol compounds in the oregano oil and they possess high bactericidal and virucidal properties. Another study demonstrates that oregano oil is effective against some of the strains of E. coli, salmonella and the staph infection. Oregano may also aid in the thinning of the mucus or phlegm produced in the chest and other cold or flu symptoms due to expectoration. Oregano oil can be purchased over the counter and should be diluted and used externally or taken orally in capsule form.
3. Tea Tree
Apart from its blend of terpinen-4-ol, tea tree oil is known for its antiviral and anti-inflammatory properties. Recent studies have shown that there is the possibility of using tea tree oil in enhancing the functionality of the white blood cells. This in turn helps to enhance the body’s ability to fight off foreign objects such as bacteria and viruses. The use of tea tree oil gel also can be of significant value in the treatment of skin infections and preventing their occurrence when applied locally. Place 4 to 5 drops in your skincare lotions such as face wash and body wash.
4. Lemon
Pure, invigorating lemon essential oil helps to improve vitamin and antioxidant content to boost the immune system. As a study has pointed out, lemon oil possesses the ability to hinder the development of specific bacteria and fungi like the species of Candida yeasts. The oil also possesses anti-inflammatory properties that can be helpful in relief from respiratory disorders. You can place one drop of lemon essential oil in the water that you are using to take your bath, use them at home by putting few drops of the same essential oil in the air, or even apply the same oil on the skin when diluted. This assists in cleaning the air as well as the other surfaces in the surrounding area.
5. Peppermint
Peppermint oil has some active constituent called menthol and is helpful in congestion of the respiratory tract and relieves breathing difficulty. It is also a bacteria inhibitor: peppermint has proven to inhibit H. pylori bacteria and some other pathogenic bacteria in laboratory experiment. To provide the body with a peaceful immune system boosting, you can prepare and take peppermint tea with a few drops of peppermint oil.
6. Thyme
Research shows that the thyme essential oil is effective in treating nasal problems, coughs, and flu, among others. Thymol, which is among the important components of thyme, hinders bacteria formation and viruses of the herpes type and poliovirus. Thyme has a warm and herbaceous scent; it is an excellent oil to have diffused when the flu is going around this winter.
7. Lemongrass
Lemongrass essential oil effectively combats germs and bacteria given that it contains very high concentration of geraniol, citronellol, and limonene. Some studies suggest that lemongrass oil is effective in decreasing or halting the growth of some pathogens bacteria strains which are Know to cause disease. The smell of lemongrass is fresh and crisp, and it immediately lifts your spirits when you take a deep breath in.
8. Clove Bud
Including clove oil in your diet is highly beneficial because it has a high concentration of eugenol, an antioxidant compound with antibacterial, antifungal, antiviral, and anti-inflammatory properties. Numerous lab experiments prove that clove oil has antiseptic property when applied topically or taken internally to eliminate oral, skin, and stomach germs. One can use clove bud oil in gargling solutions or mix it in water when treating skin problems such as cuts and infected areas.
9. Cinnamon Bark
It contains antiseptic and fragranced compounds such as cinnamaldehyde, cinnamyl acetate, and eugenol, making cinnamon bark oil good for overall health. These compounds possess profound antibacterial and anti-inflammatory effects. It has been observed that cinnamon essential oil is capable of halting some of the frequently cultured pathogenic bacteria; this is why it is useful in reducing the occurrence of diseases and sicknesses. When applied aromatically, cinnamon essential oil also has the capacity to help in the removal of chest congestion.
10. Frankincense
Frankincense oil has been used in various cultures for thousands of years for medicinal purposes and for religious use. Today, science is also proving that it also contains some of its bioactive properties. Frankincense has boswellic acid, it has been confirmed that frankincense has antibacterial and anti-inflammatory properties. Frankincense could similarly enhance immunity as research shows it raises the count of white blood cells. Not only do they smell like exotic perfumes, frankincense oil has a bonus feature of a booster for the immune system.
In any case, never, never take internally essential oils unless they are of at least professional quality and are for dietary uses. One must do a patch test first to ensure that the skin does not react to the oils before applying the oils directly onto it. When trying to use your oils to give your environment and household objects a pleasant scent, ensure that it is a slow release method as the oils evaporate into the air. As a natural health approach, essential oils can be used effectively for additional wellness support that enhances the body’s defense system during the entire year.