In Hong Kong, FLU is strong going in the Season of acute respiratory illnesses, many people are suffering from bodily aches and pains, headaches, sore throats, coughs, congestion and sneezing. It's a cold, or maybe worst yet, the onset of the Flu. There is often confusion surrounding the reason for these ailments, and common terms like “Cold”, “Stomach Flu” and "Flu" are used to describe distinct bacterial, viral or fungal infections. Proper diagnoses are key to efficient treatment because treatments for infections are very different depending on whether the infection is caused by bacteria, viruses or fungi.
Common terms Symptoms Cause
"Cold" Scratchy sore nose & throat (early), Viral infection of the lining of
sneezing and nasal discharge; the nose, sinuses, and/or throat,
occasionally a cough develops. Rhinovirus is the most common.
"Stomach Flu" Vomiting, diarrhea, with & without Norovirus, Rotavirus.
fever.
"Flu" Fever, runny nose, sore throat, Influenza A or B virus.
cough, headache, muscle aches &
a general feeling of illness (malaise).
Influenza (flu) is caused by a virus, most commonly Influenza A Virus (IAV). Viruses need to get inside a host cell to replicate and spread, and antiviral therapy targets multiple steps in the viral life cycle.
Essential oils and their constituents have been shown to be effective antibacterials, and clarification of their action as antivirals is crucial. Treatments with all natural essential oils as an adjunct to allopathic medicines have been helpful to alleviate influenza symptoms such as malaise, fever, headaches, muscle pains, coughs and running nose. There is also evidence that essential oils can play an active role in reducing influenza complications and spread.
Furthermore, essential oils can prevent Cold and Flu viruses from settling in by eliminating the viruses in home, office and car, and by strengthening immune system with an all natural boosting mood and the mood of others, helping to relax, and relieving stress and anxiety that can come along with being sick.
Here are the 8 best and effective essential oils for Colds and Flu Season quick relief:
1). Eucalyptus comprises about 72% eucalyptol making it an efficient remedy for chesty coughs and to ease breathing. *Do not take it orally, as it can be toxic.
2). Frankincense has remarkable rejuvenating and healing properties. It has natural cold-fighting properties, such as antiseptic, astringent, anti-inflammatory and expectorant properties which make it an ideal essential oil for treating colds or flu.
3). Lavender is a favorite scent amongst the essential oils and has been so for centuries. It has a refreshing aroma; the stems and leaves give camphoraceous notes that are often softened by floral sweetness from the flowers. Lavender brings deep relaxation and encourages compassion and gentleness. It's a wonderful healing oil which is a natural pain reliever, anxiety reducer, treatment for insomnia. Lavender is particularly useful for respiratory ailments and symptoms such as influenza, colds, sinuses congestion and coughs.
4). Peppermint has a cooling, pungent, menthol aroma with clean, sweet top notes.
5). Tea tree contains antiseptic, antiviral and antimicrobial properties.
6). Rosemary is good for relieving colds and flu symptoms as it is a warming oil, reduces aches and pains, aids in circulation, and relieves nausea. *Avoid Rosemary if you have epilepsy as its high camphor content can cause seizures. Also, do not use this oil during pregnancy.
7). Thyme is antiviral, a decongestant, fights fatigue and is a natural stress reliever and antidepressant which makes it a perfect essential oil for colds and fighting flu.
8). Juniper has antiseptic, antirheumatic, depurative, antispasmodic, stimulating, stomachic, astringent and diuretic properties. *Do not use Juniper if you are pregnant.
Suggested methods of using essential oils for cold and flu prevention and relief:
Aromatherapy bath blends
Massage blends
Hot and cold compresses
Steam inhalation
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