The use of essential oils and aromatherapy has gained popularity for people looking for natural alternatives to conventional therapies for cold and flu symptoms.
Essential oils have anti-inflammatory, antiviral, antimicrobial, and astringent properties. These oils come in many different formulations including topical and vaporized in a diffuser.
Essential oils may be used topically in conjunction with a carrier oil such as coconut, olive, or grapeseed oil. Sometimes these preparations come combined in a rollerball device to aid topical application.
Table: Common Essential Oils Used for Cold and Flu Symptoms
| Essential Oil | Reported Effects |
| Black pepper (Piper nigrum) | Analgesic, anti-inflammatory |
| Cinnamon (Cinnamomum zeylancium) | Antifungal, antioxidant, helps boost immune system |
| Clove (Eugenia caryophyllata) | Antimicrobial, anti-inflammatory, oral health |
| Eucalyptus (Eucalyptus globulus) | Antibacterial and antiviral properties, decongestant |
| Lavender (Lavandula intermedia) | Antimicrobial, relaxation, sleep aid |
| Thyme | Antimicrobial |
One study shows that geranium and lemon essential oils are valuable natural anti-viral agents that may contribute to the prevention of the invasion of SARS-CoV-2/COVID-19 into the human body.
Another study shows that the essential oils of cinnamon, clove, pimento, thyme, oregano, and rosemary were shown to possess strong antibacterial activity. Clove oil was found to be the most effective among all the tested essential oils.
Essential oils are easily bought in chemists and online. Putting a few drops in a diffuser will create a nice aroma in your home and encourage health and wellbeing for you and all in your home. Be careful if you have pets as some oils are toxic for pets to inhale or ingest.
Further reading:
Antimicrobial Properties of Plant Essential Oils against Human Pathogens and Their Mode of Action. https://www.hindawi.com/journals/ecam/2016/3012462/
Geranium and Lemon Essential Oils and Their Active Compounds Downregulate Angiotensin-Converting Enzyme 2 (ACE2), a SARS-CoV-2 Spike Receptor-Binding Domain, in Epithelial Cells https://www.mdpi.com/2223-7747/9/6/770
Alternative Therapies for Viral Upper Respiratory Tract Infections https://www.empr.com/home/features/alternative-therapies-effective-for-viral-upper-respiratory-infections/
