There are a number of essential oils which have antiviral properties and can help to soothe some of the symptoms associated with viruses too. These are perfect for if you’re looking for alternative ways to combat colds and flu, or simply want to try something in addition to painkillers. Here, we look at some of the most effective antiviral essential oils and how they can help you.
Tea Tree Oil
Tea tree is the answer to a whole range of different issues due to the fact that it’s antibacterial, antimicrobial, and antiviral. This makes it a very popular ingredient in beauty products, as well as being used for its medicinal properties. Produced by the Australian tea tree, this oil can fight both bacteria and viruses, and has been found to ease cold and flu symptoms. In fact, it can shorten the length of time that you’re suffering for. You can also use tea tree products to clean your house with, as this will help to protect the rest of the family if one member is ill.
Thyme Oil
Thyme oil is particularly useful for those suffering from respiratory infections and has been found to reduce viral infectivity. It is great for relieving symptoms associated with congestion, including coughing and sneezing and has antibacterial properties too. In addition to using thyme oil, you could simply choose to add thyme to your cooking, as this will help to fight colds and the flu too.
Eucalyptus Oil
Although the antiviral effects of eucalyptus oil on the flu have not been widely tested, it has been found to protect against the herpes virus, proving that it certainly has antiviral properties. Eucalyptus oil boasts a menthol aroma which clears sinuses, eases congestion, and reduces coughing and sneezing, which will certainly make you feel better if you’re suffering from a cold, the flu, or sinusitis.
Cinnamon Oil
Cinnamon has been found to fight multiple virus strains and seems to be particularly effective against viruses when used alongside eucalyptus and rosemary. You might also like to try drinking cinnamon tea if you’re suffering from a virus, as it can help to eliminate the chills associated with a fever. Like tea tree, cinnamon is a good choice for cleaning products and will help to ensure that your surfaces are properly sanitised.
Peppermint Oil
Peppermint is known for being soothing, especially when it comes to cough sweets and medicines, and it’s menthol properties make it a fantastic decongestant. Peppermint can also reduce fever, and might even help you to feel a little more positive and less fatigued over time. Peppermint oil has a warming effect when applied to aching muscles too, providing another way to banish those virus-related aches and pains.
How to use essential oils to fight viruses
There are a number of ways that you can use essential oils to help to combat a virus. Firstly, you might like to simply drop some of the oil into a bowl of hot water and inhale the steam. Alternatively, you can dilute the essential oil with a carrier oil, such as coconut or avocado, and add it to a warm bath. You should always use a carrier oil should you wish to apply an essential oil directly to your skin too. Air diffusers can also be used with many essential oils, and these can help to cleanse the air while making you feel better.
We hope that this guide to antiviral essential oils has been useful, and will help to fight viruses and ease symptoms for you when you need them. For more information about antiviral remedies, take a look at our blog posts about antiviral herbs and antiviral foods.
