These oils have been used to flavor food, in beverages, and in cosmetics. The strong odors emitted by essential oils contain volatile organic compounds (VOCs). Hence, you must ensure that the fragrance of the essential oil you intend to use does not trigger your asthma symptoms. While essential oils can be used to help, remember to take medicine folks. If you’re an essential oil “true believer,” please don’t get your back up about the subhead above. There is no evidence to show that essential oils can help asthma and, in fact, they may be harmful to use. In fact, breathing in the particles released by the oils may trigger an asthma attack. All rights reserved. We never sell or share your email address. Using certain oils in this way can provide relief from the symptoms of an upper respiratory tract infection. The University of Maryland Medical Center points out that eucalyptus oil can trigger an asthma attack, so it should be used with caution by asthmatics. Without it, a layer of undiluted oil will remain on the surface. These oils may help relieve symptoms, but they should not replace conventional medical treatments and they can pose new risks. Many people with asthma frequently cough, wheeze and have trouble breathing, all of which essential oils — particularly essential oils for … We appreciate you sharing what works for you in your home. As a result, it may also relieve coughing. Tea tree oil: In a small study published in the British Journal of Dermatology, findings showed that tea tree oil could reduce skin inflammation that occurs in response to histamine. Essential oils may not always be an ideal treatment for asthma. As a result, users cannot be sure that the ingredients are pure. I remain leery of claims such as those attached to essential oils because I was raised by a hippie. Essential oils can smell quite strong, and the problem with that is in my opinion, essential oils can fall under the "irritant" category of causing asthma attacks. Natural remedies include using essential oils for asthma relief because they … Using essential oils for asthma requires caution and safety. Shake the bottle well and then spray the solution into the air in the room. Originally billed as folk medicine, supplements and essential oils derived from plants are now referred to as holistic or complementary or alternative medicine. This article represents the opinions, thoughts, and experiences of the author; none of this content has been paid for by any advertiser. The best thing is there are multiple essential oils that effectively treat asthma. In a 2014 laboratory study in animals, scientists found that methanol could relax and protect the airways. What is Asthma? Some people claim essential oils as oregano have greatly helped them for their condition and some claim it is a trigger for them. Lean over the bowl and breathe deeply. I like to diffuse a combination of peppermint, eucalyptus and lavender when I go to bed. People should use a small amount of the oil first to check that they are not allergic to it and that it does not trigger asthma symptoms. Asthmatic bronchitis is when asthma and bronchitis occur at the same time. Some people claim essential oils as oregano have greatly helped them for their condition and some claim it is a trigger … Clove oil helps in modulating the immune response. This will help prevent the symptoms from worsening and causing a severe asthma attack. Side-effects. Lavender: People use this essential oil for a variety of purposes. Eucalyptus Oil. Sometimes asthma is triggered by viral infections, pollen, exposure to animals, or exercise. Essential Oils and Breathing Disorders Essential oils that are helpful for asthma, bronchite, croup and other lung disorders include: salvia sclarea, Eucalipto, Incenso, Lavanda, Limone, Maggiorana, Menta piperita, Mirra, Rosa, Rosmarino, and Tea Tree. Keep up the good work! A mentor of mine shared the story of relieving a severe attack her husband was having in the ambulance on the way to the hospital. MNT is the registered trade mark of Healthline Media. Chinese researchers discovered that guinea-pigs and mice suffered less severe asthma symptoms after inhaling bergamot oil steam. It may be beneficial due to its antihistaminic activity. Perhaps, in some cases, they could help with other symptoms too. Dilute the essential oil using water or a carrier oil, such as olive or nut oil. So depending on what oil the mom was using, it might have contributed to an attack. This mixture is then massaged into the skin of the chest or on the soles of the feet. If so, you might find that essential oils trigger your symptoms rather than relieving them. Well, here’s the deal. There is no evidence that essential oils can help asthma. Allergens include things like: Not everyone who has asthma has the allergic type. A look at essential oils for erectile dysfunction. Learn more about how we maintain editorial integrity here. The Asthma and Allergy Foundation of America, a well-regarded resource for asthma information, states clearly that: “There is no evidence that essential oils can help asthma. Leon (site moderator). COVID-19: Is it time for male leaders to ‘lean out’? Good news - you're already subscribed! Asthma.net does not provide medical advice, diagnosis or treatment. Eucalyptus – clears airways and breaks up congestion. However, they should use them with care, as there is limited research on their effectiveness and safety. These contain VOCs (Volatile Organic Compounds) which can trigger asthma symptoms for some people with asthma who are sensitive to strong scents and perfumes. A blend of inula, spike … You can also place a drop or two on your palm and breathe in the fumes. But the author probably doesn’t know much about lung abscesses … An asthma attack is just as scary as drowning in water however, some people believe in the power of essential oils and in diffuser humidifier benefits in relieving the signs and symptoms of asthma. These oils tend to have strong aromas. Oregano oil can help for asthma as a complementary treatment but not as a cure to asthma. One of the hallmarks of asthma, especially during episodes of sub-optimal control, is non-specific bronchial hyperactivity, where airborne irritants can trigger … Ingredients: 1 drop of peppermint essential oil 1 drop of marjoram essential oil 4 drops of geranium essential oil 6 drops of lavender essential oil 1 ounce of vegetable oil I have recently got into essential oils. Asthma is a chronic respiratory condition, for which there is no cure. The article reviews the efficacy and uses of some essential oils for asthma attacks. The studies also use double-blind methodology, where half of the participants unknowingly use a placebo or no treatment, to see if the differences are statistically significant. The dispersant is necessary to help the oil mix with the water. A doctor will prescribe medications to help people manage their condition. 100% Upvoted. Allergens trigger asthma in many people, and tea tree oil might help reduce the inflammation that occurs as a result. It's not exact, different smells do it for different people. It is particularly crucial to check with a doctor before using oils during pregnancy. There are several types of asthma and most of them occur if a person is exposed to triggers such as smoke, dust, and pollen thus signs of difficulty of breathing sets in. This is why I only use doTerra. It’s good to know the symptoms of each stage though, so you know when to seek a doctor’s care. But they should never be used to replace asthma medication, especially in more severe asthma. I have to be careful about how close to the diffuser I get when I'm diffusing certain oils or they trigger a response. Mild asthma is fairly common and usually can be addressed with natural remedies. Essential oils may have some potential in asthma treatment in certain people. The best ways to manage asthma are4: I know some people believe that doctors who recommend prescription medications over “natural” alternatives are ruled by “Big Pharma” and the government. This site is protected by reCAPTCHA and the Google Privacy Policy and Terms of Service apply. Eucalyptus oil should be avoided if you are taking 5 … In fact, breathing in the particles released by the oils may trigger an asthma attack.”2. In the U.S., people can only take these supplements under the supervision of a licensed healthcare professional. A person with asthma should know what situations trigger an attack and avoid them whenever possible. There is no evidence to show that essential oils can help asthma and, in fact, they may be harmful to use. Try them out, one oil at a time, in very small quantities, to see how you respond. I don’t particularly find that essential oils help with my asthma. A new study has suggested that lavender oil and tea tree oil may interfere with normal hormonal activity, predisposing young boys to gynecomastia. Oregano oil can help for asthma as a complementary treatment but not as a cure to asthma. Have you ever wished for a “more natural approach” to treating your child’s or your own asthma than potentially harmful man-made medications? I know I have. Essential oils can be found in local stores, such as Natural Grocers. Are there risks? Irritants are strong scents that can cause asthma attacks… Or they might not. Apply to the skin: You can put some drops of diluted oil onto a compress and apply the compress to the skin. Learn about some of the supposed health benefits of clary sage essential oil. There might be some value for you, as long as you are an adult. Essential oils may help treat some allergies, especially when the reaction leads to breathing problems or affects the skin. So, if you opt to try essential oils for your asthma, do it only after consulting with your doctor, and as an add-on to whatever treatment you are already using. If you’re suffering from an asthma attack, consider inhaling lavender while taking meditations to calm the body and the mind. Given this information, I would recommend that patients exercise caution when using essential oil diffusers. You should also make sure that adding essential oils … They certainly may be effective at relaxing you and relieving stress. Essential oils might trigger an attack. There is no evidence that essential oils can help asthma. 4. How to Benefit from the Anti-Inflammatory Effect of Essential Oils . How Often You Should Do This. The American Lung Association note that doctors might prescribe a new treatment for severe and persistent asthma. Never apply pure oil to the skin, as this can lead to a reaction. 3. There are several essential oils that can benefit those with asthma, most notably Hyssop decumbens (Hyssopus officinalis var decumbens). Fill a spray bottle with water and a few drops of essential oil. Use of the site is conditional upon your acceptance of our terms of use. Eucalyptus oil; A towel; What You Have To Do. Peppermint essential oil has decongestant and antihistamine properties that relieve … Essential oils cannot replace appropriate medical care. Oregano – has antibacterial and anti … The solution should be 3–5 percent essential oil and 95–97 percent carrier. Clove – has anti-spasmodic and anti-inflammatory properties that expand constricted air passages. Oils may not be safe for everyone to use. iStock Asthma is a chronic breathing condition that affects … Since the FDA do not approve their use, there are no regulations to control what an essential oil contains. I will tell you, though, that at the behest of a friend, I tried a mixture of lemon, lavender and peppermint oils (inhaled) to treat my allergic asthma a few years ago. Massage: Dilute the oil in a carrier, such as almond oil, and use it as a massage oil. An error occurred. Join the conversation! This is why we should understand asthma is a very complicated health condition. In a study published in 2014, scientists used laboratory tests to demonstrate that the essential oil from Pistacia integerrima may help treat bronchial asthma. Time for a fun fact: strong smells like essential oils might trigger an asthma attack. Learn how to use essential oils for asthma in a safe manner, to control breathing difficulty and to prevent asthma attacks . Lavender oil is well known for a host of therapeutic properties. And are essential oils safe to use for asthma, just because they’re deemed “natural”? Take a bath: Mix a few drops of oil with a dispersant, such as full-cream milk, and add the solution to a warm bath. You Will Need. Plants and their byproducts have been used throughout time for various purposes. And then proceed with caution. While asthma itself leaves us in an uneasy condition, its symptoms can be debilitating during an asthma attack. For me I know that a trigger could be just about anything anywhere. But the oils also did not help my asthma at all. I know you will hear different results from other people, but that was my experience. Source them from a company that has stringent quality standards that you trust. I feel asthma sufferers are lucky in some respects because we are the expert sniffers. So, if you decide to try essential oils for asthma, check in with your health care team first. Share about your experience with essential oils. The U.S. Food and Drug Administration (FDA) do not regulate the use of essential oils for any conditions, including asthma, but they have issued warnings about some products. It will also cover other treatment options for this condition. Let us know at contact@Asthma.net. 11 comments. As a health care professional, I’m not confident that they contain enough evidence to back up the claims. Quality of oils can vary greatly, depending on who makes them. 5 Reasons Why People Don’t Take Asthma Seriously, Lemon (often used in combination with the 2 oils above). asthma…until Beau (my husband) had an asthma attack right in front of me. I have used some oils that seemed to irritate my breathing and I avoid them. The fact is essential oils might help treat some of the symptoms of asthma. More recently, they’ve been touted for use through inhalation and in massage oil. How Can Essential Oils Help Relieve Asthma . Some essential oils are available as supplements for internal use. Strong odors trigger asthma symptoms and attacks. Natural remedies for asthma; Avoiding triggers; The goal for any treatment option is to prevent asthma attacks from occurring or at the very least, relieve the symptoms when you do have an attack. I loved the aromas, and I did not have any allergic reaction, even though I am quite sensitive to perfumes. Lavender Essential Oil. Essential oils have also been found to release volatile organic compounds (VOCs), which can also trigger asthma symptoms. The Asthma and Allergy Foundation of America (AAFA) say that there is no evidence to prove that essential oils can help people with asthma. Which essential oils help to calm a cough and other symptoms of a cold? This is because essential oils contain anti-inflammatory, anti-congestive, expectorant, and antispasmodic properties that can help relieve your symptoms. The other thing to keep in mind is that essential oils are not regulated in any way. Aerosolized essential oils (which release volatile organic compounds into the air such as terpene) have the potential to trigger asthma attacks. You only need a drop or two to experience their benefits. There are several essential oils that can benefit those with asthma, most notably Hyssop decumbens (Hyssopus officinalis var decumbens). But, are they safe to use? Eucalyptus Essential Oil. Aerosolized essential oils (which release volatile organic compounds into the air such as terpene) have the potential to trigger asthma attacks. A steam bath is another way of inhaling essential oil. Essential oils are a great option for asthma symptoms, such as coughing, wheezing, chest tightness, and shortness of breath. Always talk to your doctor before using any essential oil. This is most often in response to environmental substances called allergens. What are the best essential oils for allergies? This means their safety for human use is not guaranteed. These essential oils may, therefore, be used as a preventative measure for asthma. I feel like I breath better but it easily could just be in my head. They may not be. save. Medications may include: Bronchodilators: These relax the muscles around the airways. It is important to follow the doctor’s instructions regarding dosage and how to take the drug. Any medical information published on this website is not intended as a substitute for informed medical advice and you should not take any action before consulting with a healthcare professional, Complementary Medicine / Alternative Medicine, Brain regions found where serotonin boosts patience, impulse control, Ability to lose weight is not affected by age, 'Clear, balanced information' important for vaccine uptake. Try again or reach out to contact@Asthma.net. In some cases, essential oils can also be mixed with a carrier oil such as sweet almond oil or jojoba oil. If any irritation occurs, stop using it immediately. Spraying can also allow people to inhale the oil. Eucalyptus: Research suggests that eucalyptus oil may have anti-inflammatory properties. Log in or create an account. That doesn’t mean the claims are false; it just means there’s a lot we still don’t know for sure about how essential oils work and how they might, or might not, help with asthma and other medical conditions. In fact, some may be dangerous and trigger symptoms in the same way that air fresheners and other chemicals do. Not according to the author, which suggests that essential oils like lemon, peppermint, or frankincense might do the trick. Natural remedies for asthma; Avoiding triggers; The goal for any treatment option is to prevent asthma attacks from occurring or at the very least, relieve the symptoms when you do have an attack. And always keep taking your daily asthma medication as prescribed, plus keep your rescue inhaler close at hand! Some people find their asthma symptoms are triggered by things such as air pollution, chemical fumes, perfume, and sawdust. Essential oils can help to open up airways, reduce the inflammation that causes asthma attacks, and more. Another of the many essential oils for asthma is clove. The Recovery Room: News beyond the pandemic — December 4, What you should know about essential oils for erectile dysfunction, Debra Rose Wilson, Ph.D., MSN, R.N., IBCLC, AHN-BC, CHT. What are the possible benefits of clary sage oil? There is no cure for asthma, but people can reduce their risk of attacks and complications by ensuring that their influenza and pneumonia vaccinations are always up-to-date. It is possible to be allergic to an essential oil, which could trigger an asthma attack. Included is detail on what oils work and how they do so, in addition to those that do not work. I titled this section as claims, because the fact is, most of what you read about essential oils is just that: claims, rather than scientifically-proven facts. Leave it for 24 hours to test for a reaction before applying the diluted oil to a larger area of skin. People with asthma should not use essential oils unless their doctor instructs them otherwise. Asthma is a condition where the lung tissue becomes inflamed, meaning it swells, narrows and may produce mucus. However, if essential oils do not trigger your attacks, then keep reading. Anti-inflammatories: Usually corticosteroids or steroids, these reduce the swelling of the airways. It's actually kind of common. Is there any evidence to back up claims that essential oils can help my asthma? Dry evaporation is another option. Essential oils may or may not treat some of the symptoms of asthma. Fill a bowl with hot water, sprinkle a few drops of the oil into the water, and allow the steam to rise. Should we be using essential oils for asthma relief . Research has also found that chamomile can help relax the bronchi, which are the airways linking the windpipe to the lungs. © 2004-2020 Healthline Media UK Ltd, Brighton, UK, a Red Ventures Company. Essential oils are most often used as aromatherapy in asthma. You can find evidence of these claims in online blogs, in news articles and on the websites of essential oil companies and their representatives, not to mention everywhere in social media. Its triggers are many: stress, active and passive smoking, extreme allergies (especially to pollen or animal hair), cold weather conditions, lung infections, etc. All essential oils can cause skin irritation so it’s best to dilute them with a carrier oil such as coconut oil. These essential oils include the following: Peppermint: A substance called methanol is present in peppermint. (It’s always good to check in with your doctor even if you think you have only mild to moderate symptoms.) Asthma causes inflammation and swelling in the airways, and this makes breathing difficult. Some studies have suggested that substances in some essential oils may offer health benefits for people with asthma. However, the study involved only 27 people, and there is currently no further evidence to support its findings. Need help? Histamine is a chemical that the body produces in an allergic reaction. Pistacia integerrima: Also known as karkatshringi, people in India use this plant to treat asthma, bronchitis, and other conditions. People have used essential oils for many years to treat a range of conditions. If you’re … This information is not designed to replace a physician’s independent judgment about the appropriateness or risks of a procedure for a given patient. Nor do they constitute what is known as “peer-reviewed scientific research.” This means1: “Peer-reviewed (refereed or scholarly) journals – Articles are written by experts and are reviewed by several other experts in the field before the article is published in the journal in order to insure the article’s quality.”. There are no regulations for using those terms. share. But it’s also true that asthma experts worldwide have concluded that the approach listed in the bullets above is the best, most effective, way to achieve asthma control and prevent disability and death. While essential oils have not been shown to be a cause of bronchial asthma, there are instances in which essential oils may have triggered asthma. Having said all that, here are a few essential oils most commonly claimed to possibly help with asthma: Rest assured that you will find numerous articles that refer to research studies suggesting that these oils help with things such as: Keep in mind, though, that very few of these studies are U.S.-based, done with humans or with significant numbers of participants. The body can absorb essential oils through the skin. The same … These three essential oils will help you maintain clear airways if you have a bout. Gerhard Whitworth, RN … Essential Oils for Asthma Although prescription and over-the-counter medications are often used in combating asthma and relieving its symptoms, there are natural, more effective and non-toxic ways of reducing inflammation, and controlling asthma attacks without any need for man-made drugs. The methods of use and the choice of oils, will depend, however, upon the factors which trigger an asthmatic attack for example; if an infection is present, if stress and anxiety are contributory factors or if the attack is an allergic response. He was a man that I literally trusted with my daughter’s life, so I trusted what he said.