The same plants that flavor a roasted rosemary potato and chicken dinner, peppermint candy and scent lavender soaps have powerful medicinal properties in other forms. Essential oils work effectively as natural remedies for mental, physical and emotional ailments. The most effective treatment for a specific issue combines the appropriate essential oil and treatment method. Headaches respond well to cold compresses of lavender, peppermint and rosemary essential oil, says Patricia Davis in her book "Aromatherapy: An A-Z." Davis recommends steam inhalation of eucalyptus, lavender, peppermint, pine, thyme or tea tree essential oil for treating a sinus infection.
Step 1
Add three to five drops of essential oil to a large bowl.
Step 2
Pour 2 cups of hot water into the bowl.
Step 3
Cover your head with a towel, close your eyes and lean over the bowl with your face positioned 10 inches from the water.
Step 4
Breathe deeply through your nose for one minute.
Tips and Warnings
- Steam inhalation will likely cause coughing and expectoration. If needed, spit into the bowl or have tissue or a garbage can on hand to expectorate into. "Aromatherapy: An A-Z" recommends alternating the essential oil used as all have slightly different properties. For maximum effectiveness, perform 5 to 6 steam inhalations a day.
- With these treatments, more is not better. Adding more peppermint oil than suggested can cause skin irritation and a burning sensation in the respiratory system when inhaled. Getting the steam into the eyes will burn, so be sure to keep them closed throughout the inhalation process.
Things You'll Need
- Essential oil
- Large bowl
- 2 cups hot water
- Towel
References
- "Aromatherapy: An A-Z"; Patricia Davis; 2000
- "The Illustrated Encyclopedia of Essential Oils"; Julie Lawless; 1995
- "The Complete Book of Essential Oils & Aromatherapy"; Valerie Worwood; 1991
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