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.
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.
