6 Secrets to Beating a Cold With Natural Products

Susan Smith Jones, PhD, is no stranger to health secrets. The author of 27 books, including The Joy Factor: 10 Sacred Practices for Radiant Health, has been teaching students at UCLA how to be healthy and fit for 30 years.

By Maria Barillaro for readersdigest.ca

According to Dr. Smith Jones, there are a few natural essential oils that can help provide relief from colds and flu. Read on to find out how these oils can enhance breathing, soothe aching muscles and more.

 

1. Peppermint

According to Smith Jones, peppermint oil has been a valuable aromatic stimulant for centuries. Adding a few drops of this oil to a bowl of hot water, then inhaling the vapour, can help clear up congestion in the nasal and bronchial passages.

2. Eucalyptus

Smith Jones says eucalyptus is known for promoting oxygen absorption, so breathing in the aroma of eucalyptus can relax the respiratory muscles and enhance the breathing passages.

3. Cajuput

Extracted from Melaleuca cajuputi, cajuput is very similar to tea tree oil. This essential oil possesses the ability to clear up bronchial and nasal passages while soothing discomfort in those areas at the same time.

4. Juniper

When hit with a cold or flu, our immune systems weaken, making it more difficult for us to fight off the cold or prevent other infections. Juniper oil helps to stimulate the metabolism and supports the immune system to help you fight off your virus quicker.

5. Wintergreen

Inhaling a vapour rub with this aroma stimulates and aids breathing when you’re congested. Plus, the pleasant aroma leaves skin with a warm and soothing feeling.

6. Clove

Olbas oil instantly soothes discomfort when its vapour is inhaled. Clove can help strengthen the effects of this oil while its strong, stimulating scent clears up the airways to help you breathe better.

 

* All these essential oils can be found in natural product stores and select drugstores. You can enjoy the benefits of these oils by inhaling their vapour. Mix them into a vapour gel or in a bowl of boiling hot water.

 

Related in Health:

 

  1. 5 Health Myths Revealed
  2. How to Treat and Prevent a Cold
  3. Stop the Flu

If you enjoyed this article, be sure to sign up for our weekly health newsletter and receive more articles on health and well-being.

 

For more home remedies from Dr. Susan Smith Jones, PhD, visit her website.

 


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