Some essential oils, such as eucalyptus, thyme, tea tree, lavender, and peppermint, may help relieve flu symptoms and protect you from the flu virus.
Essential oils (EOs) are oils derived from specific parts of plants, such as seeds, leaves, and roots. These oils contain chemical compounds, some of which may help treat certain illnesses, such as the flu.
This article provides an overview of 10 essential oils and presents research on their effects on the flu virus and flu symptoms. We also offer advice on when to call your doctor regarding the flu.
Most studies investigating the use of essential oils (EOs) for influenza have used test tube studies. That is, scientists test EOs or their compounds on cell cultures in test tubes or petri dishes.
This makes it difficult for scientists to determine the effectiveness of these substances on live animals, including humans.
It’s also important to note that certain EOs can interact with other medications or supplements a person is taking. You should always consult a qualified medical professional and certified aromatherapist before taking EOs. This is generally not recommended.
Certain oils can irritate the skin when applied topically. Even if essential oils are safe to apply to the skin, they should first be diluted with a carrier oil to reduce the risk of skin damage. Two popular carrier oils are coconut oil and jojoba oil.
You can also inhale essential oils by adding 1-2 drops to water in an oil diffuser. This creates a mist throughout the room and disperses the scent into the air.
You can also add a drop or two of essential oil to a bowl of boiling water and inhale the fumes.
Below are 10 essential oils that can help protect you from the flu virus or treat some of the symptoms of the flu.
Although research suggests they have health benefits, the FDA does not monitor or regulate the purity or quality of essential oils. It is important to consult a medical professional and research essential oils before using them. quality A product of a certain brand. Always do a patch test before trying a new essential oil.
Eucalyptus is a genus of flowering plants consisting of over 900 species and subspecies. Most are native to Australia and Tasmania.
A 2021 review evaluated the antiviral properties of eucalyptus EO. According to reviews, eucalyptus oil contains compounds called monoterpenes that bind to proteins on the surface of virus cells.
This binding prevents the virus from entering the host’s cells. Without this ability, viruses cannot self-replicate.
The review adds that eucalyptus oil has properties that may help treat symptoms of viral infections. These include:
- anti-inflammatory properties
- Mucolytic properties. This means that it breaks down mucus, making it thinner and easier to expel from the airways.
- Antispasmodic effect, that is, helps relieve muscle spasms
This review concludes that eucalyptus oil and its major monoterpenes have great potential for the prevention and treatment of viral diseases.
Like eucalyptus, tea tree also contains large amounts of terpenes.
A 2021 review states that tea tree contains two terpenes called “terpinen-4-ol” and “α-terpineol” that exhibit antiviral activity.
People have used thyme essential oil in the following ways:
This is because thyme is suspected to have anti-inflammatory, antiviral, antibacterial, and antiseptic properties.
according to
Researchers also observed that thyme EO exhibits some antifungal and antiparasitic properties.
A 2020 review lists peppermint oil as one of the five most important antiviral herbs against colds and flu.
Peppermint contains menthol, an ingredient commonly found in over-the-counter cold and flu medicines.
A 2017 review notes that menthol causes a cooling sensation in the throat and may have a soothing effect on the throat and airways.
A 2021 in vitro study investigated the antiviral activity of lavender and salvia essential oils against the avian influenza (H5N1) virus.
In this study, both EOs demonstrated antiviral activity against viruses in a laboratory setting. However, further research is needed to determine whether these oils are effective against viruses in living organisms, including humans.
Lavender is also widely known for its sleep-promoting effects, which may be helpful for people who have trouble sleeping due to flu symptoms.
In fact, in a 2017 study, an herbal supplement containing lavender was associated with subjective improvements in sleep quality in participants with mild to moderate insomnia.
A 2023 study investigated the effects of aromatherapy oil blends on symptoms of coronavirus disease (COVID-19). EO Blend consists of:
- lemon
- lavender
- peppermint
- tea tree
The researchers said they chose the above EOs because of their reported efficacy against the following diseases:
- respiratory tract infection
- pain
- Malaise
- stress
Participants in the experimental group (EG) wore an aroma diffuser necklace during the day. The researchers instructed participants to hold a diffuser close to their nose and inhale the EO blend for one minute three times a day: morning, noon, and evening.
The control group (CG) received usual care over the same 4-day study period.
This study found no significant differences in nasal symptoms or stress between the two groups. However, EG reported significantly reduced sore throat and fatigue compared to her CG.
The study authors concluded that EO blends may help reduce sore throats in patients with COVID-19.
It’s also possible that EO blends can help relieve sore throats caused by the flu, but scientists have not yet investigated this possibility.
a
Of the 63 people tested, 11 showed antiviral activity, and the most effective among them were:
- clary sage
- marjoram
- star anise
The researchers noted that all three EOs mentioned above contained linalool and speculated that this compound may be responsible for the anti-influenza effect. However, further research is needed to confirm whether this is the case.
A 2019 in vitro study investigated the antiviral effects of an EO blend consisting of oregano, thyme, and Greek sage against upper respiratory viruses. This study showed this blend to be effective against the following viruses:
- Influenza A/H1N1 virus strain
- influenza type B
- Human rhinovirus 14 (HRV14)
For influenza A/H1N1 and HRV14, EO blends were associated with decreased viral replication.
The study authors concluded that the EO blend has antiviral activity and could potentially be used as an herbal therapy against both influenza viruses and rhinoviruses.
However, further research is needed to determine whether the EO blend is effective against the virus in human participants and to establish an effective dosing regimen.
An older study from 2014 found that bergamot oil vapor and certain other EO vapors had inhibitory effects on influenza viruses in vitro. This inhibitory effect was primarily due to a compound called “citronellol” found in bergamot oil.
A 2019 review also noted that bergamot and various other EOs have strong antiviral properties against the SARS-CoV-1 virus.
The study authors suggest that inhaling these EOs via a diffuser or nebulizer may serve as supportive therapy for SARS-CoV-2.
It is not clear from this study whether inhaled bergamot has a similar therapeutic effect on influenza viruses.
Bergamot should be used with caution, as it can be toxic in large quantities. There are some reports that using bergamot oil topically can make your skin more susceptible to sunburn.
A 2018 in vitro study found that cinnamon extract weakens the TLR2 and TLR4 signaling pathways involved in inflammation, and found that this effect is likely due to two compounds found in cinnamon called Ta.I ran-cinnamaldehyde” and “p– Simen. ”
influenza virus
by
However, if you have flu symptoms and are at high risk for flu-related complications, you should contact a qualified health care professional.
this
Some flu symptoms may require emergency treatment. Anyone who has experienced any of the
- shortness of breath or difficulty breathing
- Persistent pain or pressure in the chest or abdomen
- persistent dizziness
- persistent confusion
- seizure
- lack of urination
- Severe muscle pain and weakness
- Fever and cough improve, but then return or worsen
- worsening of chronic conditions;
Learn more about the symptoms of influenza that children should be aware of.
Essential oils are plant oils that contain natural chemicals or compounds, some of which can help protect against the flu virus or treat flu symptoms.
Research on the effectiveness of essential oils against influenza has primarily used in vitro studies. That means it’s difficult for scientists to determine how these substances will work against influenza viruses in humans and other organisms.
Anyone considering using essential oils should first contact a qualified health care professional to determine whether the oil is appropriate for their use.
Some essential oils are toxic when ingested and others can cause irritation when applied to the skin. Always keep out of reach of pets and children.
It may also interact with other medications or supplements a person is taking. Therefore, you should inquire about essential oils before using them for the first time.
