Essential Oils for Saunas

Essential Oils for Saunas
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Many people consider saunas a relaxing way to cleanse pores, soothe tired muscles and relieve the stresses of the day. A sauna alone does wonders for your body and mind. Introducing essential oils to your sauna heightens the experience through aromatherapy. Practitioners of alternative medicine believe certain essential oils have powerful healing qualities. While these essential oils might not cure your ailments, they will definitely enhance your next sauna visit.

Cajeput

Cajeput, when used in combination with steam, relieves bronchial and sinus symptoms and eases sore throat pain, according to Flora’s Herb and Supplement Encyclopedia. The Free Online Library cites the antiseptic and muscle relaxant benefits of cajeput. Blending the essential oils of cajeput and lemon purportedly helps prevent colds and boosts the immune system.

Cedarwood

Cedarwood oil acts as an antifungal and antibacterial agent. Manufacturers like Cedrus Sauna use cedar construction for the interior walls, flooring and seating of their saunas for that very reason. Diluted essential cedarwood oil, when applied to sauna rocks, alleviates symptoms of coughs and bronchitis.

Eucalyptus

The therapeutic benefits of eucalyptus oil include pain reduction and relief from respiratory complaints. This essential oil has a sweet, pungent fragrance that invigorates the body and senses. Eucalyptus, found in natural cough and cold remedies, assists in clearing nasal passages and bronchial airways as well as relieving sinus pain and congestion.

Lavender

Most people recognize lavender’s sweet aroma and know of its calming effects. However, delicate lavender possesses several powerful medicinal qualities. Lavender oil contains organic compounds known as esters. High levels of these aromatic molecules occur naturally in Lavender vera. Lavender oil producer Netherfield promotes the antiviral, antibacterial and anti-inflammatory benefits of the well-known botanical. In addition, they contend that lavender oil improves respiratory problems.

Peppermint

Fragrant peppermint, familiar as a natural remedy to aid digestion, has analgesic and antiseptic properties as well. Aromatic peppermint oil provides an energy boost when added to the sauna. The bracing vapors of peppermint oil offer the perfect solution to a sedentary day at work.

Pine

Commonly used to help respiratory issues, essential pine oil has the ability to fight minor infections. Pine not only helps lessen congestion, it energizes much like eucalyptus and peppermint oils. Arthritis sufferers can reap the benefits of a peppermint oil sauna. Peppermint may help in reducing the pain and inflammation associated with this common joint disease.

Rosemary

Rosemary, a popular herb used by cooks, has many fans in the world of aromatherapy and skin care. When combined with steam and heat, rosemary provides a natural antidote for fatigue. Like many botanical aromatics, essential rosemary oil functions as an analgesic, stimulant and antiseptic.

References

Article reviewed by Brad Walters Last updated on: Jul 14, 2010

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