Basil Blend For Bronchitis
Bronchitis is a form of respiratory tract infection, it occurs when tubes called bronchial tubes which are responsible for transporting air from trachea (windpipe) to your lungs become inflamed causing mucus to build up in the lungs. Whilst it is often a minor illness it can become more serious, symptoms of bronchitis include low fever, shortness of breath, fatigue, tightness across the chest and coughing, it can be caused by a virus, bacteria or by chemical irritants.
Try using essential oil blends such as this Basil essential oil blend can soothe and ease the symptoms of bronchitis.
THE SYMPTOMS OF BRONCHITIS INCLUDE
A hacking cough bringing up phlegm which may be clear. yellow-grey or greenish
Headache
Cold/flu type symptoms such as a sore throat and a runny or blocked nose
Fatigue
Aches and pains
It’s not uncommon for people to find they may have sore chest and stomach muscles from the continual persistent cough caused by bronchitis. This cough can last for a number of weeks after the infection has cleared up and all other symptoms have gone. People may also experience wheezing and a shortness of breath due to inflamed airways.
THE FOLLOWING OILS ARE BENEFICIAL
Basil – Basil is an excellent expectorant which can help to ease the congestion found in respiratory tract infections such as bronchitis.
Lavender – Lavender is an analgesic and anti-viral oil which can help to not only fight the virus but has pain relieving properties which can ease aching muscles, headache and sore throats. Lavender also has anti-depressant and decongestant properties which can help to relieve congestion but also lift up the spirits when feeling unwell.
Clove - Clove has wonderful healing properties, it’s analgesic, and anti-inflammatory properties can help to ease the pain and discomfort caused by bronchitis. Its antimicrobial and antiviral properties can help fight the infection whilst its stimulating properties can help to boost flagging energy levels.
HOW TO USE
If you have an empty essential oil bottle you can clean it out and make a blend to use when needed or you can add them individually in the following ratio.
Basil – 3 drops
Lavender – 3 drops
Clove – 3 drops
WAYS TO USE
DIFFUSE
Diffusing a blend of these essential oils can help to relieve the discomfort from bronchitis and help to clear congestion from the chest.
Diffuse 1 - 3 drops of the blend of Basil, Lavender and Clove essential oil in an oil burner or diffuser.
INHALATION
Inhaling this blend of essential oils is effective in helping to relieve symptoms associated with bronchitis. Steam inhalation can help to clear congestions in your head, nose and chest.
Simply use 1 -3 drops of this blend of essential oils in a bowl of hot water, place a towel or blanket over your head and shoulders to enclose your head over the bowl and inhale for 5 – 10 minutes.
Note: Steam inhalation may be too strong for children, instead place the bowl in the room or close by and allow the steam to infuse in the air.
SIDE EFFECTS
As with all essential oils it should not be used neat on the skin, essential oils are very concentrated oils that can irritate the skin unless mixed with a carrier oil. Essential oils should not be used internally unless under the supervision of an aromatherapist.
Basil should not be used during pregnancy and if used in excess can act as a depressant.
Pregnant and breastfeeding mums should avoid Clove oil, it can also lead to respiratory issues and cause sores to the mouth if used to excess.
Pets can be particularly sensitive to the effects of essential oils and can even be toxic so where possible should either be avoided or used where a pet is able to go into another room for example Basil, lavender and Clove are such oils.