Some of the most popular essential oils forbronchitisinclude eucalyptus, geranium, bergamot, and lavender oils.
This article explains which essential oils are beneficial for treating bronchitis.
It also details best practices for using essential oils safely.
MarsBars / Getty Images
MarsBars / Getty Images
What Are the Best Essential Oils to Use for Bronchitis?
Essential oils can help with coughing by soothing yoursore throat.
They are oils distilled from plants and contain the beneficial chemicals of the plant they are derived from.
Eucalyptus is also known to reduce mucus secretion and lung inflammation.
The main active ingredient in Myrtol is cineol, a terpene extracted from eucalyptus.
Geranium Essential Oil
Geranium oil is another well-researched essential oil.
A systematic review of 34 randomized controlled trials (RCTs) found that the geranium speciesP.
sidoidesreduces cough symptom duration and severity without serious adverse effects in adults.
Positive effects in children were less clear.
Bergamot Essential Oil
Bergamot oilcan be diffused to help fight the infection causing your cough.
The oil boasts strong anti-inflammatory properties and can be used to strengthen the immune system.
Diffusing bergamot oil may also improve sleep.
More research on the effects of pure lavender oil in humans with bronchitis is needed.
Easing chest congestion comes down to helping your body release the mucus from your lungs and reducing mucus production.
Few side effects were noted, with the most common being mild to moderate gastrointestinal symptoms (i.e.
Thyme Essential Oil
Thyme essential oil is made from volatile plant compounds, including thymol.
Researchers say Bronchosol is comparable to synthetic ambroxol, and its safety has been proved.
Antiviral Essential Oils
Some essential oils offer a natural alternative in the fight against viruses.
These oils are typically pungent, with strong aromas.
That way, you might ensure youre treating the right health concern with the best method.
Study results were consistent across several formulations (different brands) of oregano oil.
Before trying any self-medication at home, talk to a doctor for a personalized recommendation.
Essential oils contain bioactive ingredients that can be harmful to humans, pets, and plant life.
Use with caution and only as advised by a trusted source.
When in doubt, talk to your healthcare provider.
If essential oils are not helping with your symptoms, talk to your doctor about other treatment options.
Research on the use of essential oils for bronchitis is limited.
Always check with a healthcare provider before using essential oils to treat your symptoms.
Do not use essential oil to treat bronchitis unless your healthcare provider gives you the OK.
Essential oils should never be ingested.
Some, like eucalyptus oil, are poisonous when swallowed.
2022 Mar;28(3):218-226. doi:10.1089/jicm.2021.0226
Hazardous Substances Data Bank.Thymol.
Schonknecht K, Krauss H, Jambor J, Fal AM.
2016;69(6):791-798.
2020 Jul;94(15).
doi: 10.1128/JVI.00147-20
Nationwide Children’s Hospital.Aromatherapy: essential oils.
Poison Control.Essential oils: poisonous when misused.
