Q&A - Aromatherapy for Nasal Congestion

Q: Can you recommend any essential oils that will help with nasal congestion?

A: A stuffy nose is caused by inflamed blood vessels in the membranes lining the inside of your nostrils. For most people home and alternative remedies can be helpful in relieving the symptoms. Try a few drops of Chamomile, Geranium and Lavender on a tissue inside your pillowcase or nearby. Chamomile has a natural anti-inflammatory action, Lavender is antibacterial and Geranium is known for balancing the hormones and helping you to relax.

Three other oils that may help are Benzoin, Tea Tree and Myrrh. Avoid ‘hot’ oil such as Eucalyptus, Rosemary, Basil and any of the camphoric treatments such as ‘Vicks’ or ‘Olbas Oil’ as they are stimulants and, in the long term, can irritate the mucous membranes.

If there is an element of anxiety, which may make your breathing faster and shallower, try Frankincense. A very nice blend for a vaporizer/burner or bath would be Frankincense, Chamomile and Geranium.

If any oils have scents that are not to your taste, mask them with something sweeter like Geranium, Bergamot or May Chang. Also, only use good quality oils and discard after 6-12 months.