Coughing is an involuntary response that is the body’s way of ousting irritants or mucus from the lungs. Temporary coughs are due to an allergen or irritant in the atmosphere, whereas a persistent cough may be a sign of something more serious, such as an infection. Either way, essential oils are helpful.
Alone or combined, some suggested essential oils for coughs are:
• Cedarwood
• Eucalyptus
• Frankincense
• Peppermint
• Rosemary
Safety First
If your cough is painful or persists for too long, or other symptoms start to appear, see your healthcare provider.
For persistent or temporary coughing, one of these application methods will help you find relief.
• Chest rub. Massaging essential oils such as cedarwood and rosemary onto your chest calms a cough while helping to decongest for easier breathing.
• Soothing soak. Coughing is usually worse at night. Draw a hot, oil-infused bath right before bed to help you relax and soothe the cough.
• In the air. Diffusing or inhaling essential oils is cleansing and supportive of the lungs and the nervous system.
Natural Partners for Aromatherapy
For maximum results, combine your essential oils with these other natural remedies:
• Heal with honey. Studies have found honey to be effective as a cough suppressant.
• Try Cistus icanus tea. Ten cups a day of this herbal remedy is said to be a bio-film buster, ridding the lungs of stubborn infection.
• Drink pineapple juice. Pineapple contains bromelain, an inflammation- and mucus-fighting enzyme.
Whether your cough is tickling and dry or productive, here are three aromatherapy recipes to ease, soothe, and heal.
A steamy bath infused with essential oils may reduce lung irritation and heal respiratory illness.
6 drops cedarwood oil
4 drops frankincense oil
2 drops rosemary oil
1 tablespoon coconut or jojoba oil
Combine the oils in a small glass bowl before adding them to a hot bath while the water runs.
Coughing is exhausting anytime of day and can also keep you up at night. Frankincense and eucalyptus help ease discomfort and reduce your cough, helping you to sleep more soundly.
3 drops cedarwood oil
3 drops frankincense oil
2 drops eucalyptus oil
Every diffuser is different. Follow the manufacturer’s directions for diffusing this blend.
Massage this cedarwood blend onto your chest while resting or before bedtime to help quiet your cough and relieve congestion.
10 drops cedarwood oil
5 drops rosemary oil
5 drops peppermint oil
2 ounces carrier oil
1 2-ounce dark-glass bottle
Add all of the oils to the glass bottle and shake to blend. Store the bottle in a cool, dark place.