Asthma is a respiratory condition that occurs when dilated blood vessels constrict the airways. According to the AltMD website, approximately 20 million people in the United States suffer with asthma, with 9 million of those being children. Asthma triggers include allergic reactions, airborne allergens and stress. Common treatments include asthma medications, bronchodilators and steroids. Lavender oil has medicinal uses in alternative medicine as an anti-inflammatory and a sedative used for its calming properties, and may help reduce or eliminate your asthma symptoms. Lavender oil is not a substitute for medical treatment; consult with your health care provider prior to treating asthma to discuss potential risks or benefits.
Chest Rub
Step 1
Combine 8 drops of lavender essential oil and 1/4 cup of olive oil in a bowl. In addition, you can add 2 drops of chamomile essential oil, which acts as a natural antihistamine.
Step 2
Dip your hand in the mixture. Gently massage and rub the chest rub onto your chest prior to bedtime, or when needed to help clear your respiratory passageway.
Step 3
Wash your hands with mild soap and water, then dry with a towel. Leave the chest rub on your chest because your skin will absorb it slowly.
Herbal Steam
Step 1
Place a humidifier in your bedroom or a comfortable area where you can lie down.
Step 2
Add 2 drops of lavender essential oil to the humidifier. Follow the manufacturer's instructions to ensure that adding essential oils to the humidifier will not damage the machine.
Step 3
Turn the humidifier on and breathe normally. Lavender may help to reduce your asthma attack, relax lung spasm and dissipate your panic. Or, instead of the humidifier, add 4 drops of lavender oil in a pan of boiling water. Remove the water from the heat and inhale the steam. However, make sure you do not place your face too close to the pan to prevent injury.
Tips and Warnings
- Apply the chest rub to a small area of your skin to ensure no negative reactions occur prior to applying the product to your chest area. An alternative to the steam technique is to add 2 drops of lavender essential oil in a hot water bath. Close the bathroom door and sit in the room while inhaling the steam. Do not enter the hot bath. The hot water helps to generate the steam.
- Do not swallow or use essential oils near flames. Consuming essential oils may be toxic. Do not apply lavender oil directly to the skin.
Things You'll Need
- Lavender essential oil
- Olive oil
- Chamomile essential oil (optional)
- Bowl
- Mild soap
- Towel
- Humidifier
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