Colds and essential oils

The Rhinovirus (HRV = Human Rhino Virus) was discovered in the 1950s. The ethiological agents (pathogens) put forward are those of the common cold with respiratory tropism. This virus grows in the nasal passages, and generally circulates in all countries, all year round.

Although children are the main reservoir of HRV, it should be borne in mind that 15% of children are asymptomatic. The average incubation period for HRV is 2 days, with maximum concentrations in secretions after 48 hours. HRV is responsible for the majority of benign infections of the upper airways (nose, nasal cavity, mouth, pharynx and larynx).

Initially, the common cold is simply an acute inflammation of the nasal cavities, caused by a virus or an allergen, usually grass (as in hay fever, for example). Very quickly, this inflammation can spread to the sinuses and the entire ENT sphere, including the upper airways. In the case of hay fever, the inflammation can lead to catarrh (infection of the respiratory tract with abundant secretions) and violent coughing fits, including inflammation of the eyes.

Here's a selection ofessential oils to put an end to colds as quickly as possible. Sneezing, runny nose, itchy throat, headaches... The common cold is certainly a benign viral infection, but it can also be disabling, and it's easy to catch one when winter arrives and the thermometer reads spine-chilling temperatures. Essential oils, rich in active ingredients, have many therapeutic properties. Some are antiviral or bactericidal, others expectorant or mucolytic.

When coughs, runny noses and headaches overwhelm you, it can be difficult to find a quick and effective solution to feel better. However, essential oils can offer natural relief for cold symptoms.

Essential oils are extracted from plants and are rich in active components that can help relieve cold symptoms. For example,eucalyptus essential oil can be used to clear the respiratory tract and relieve coughs. Peppermint essential oil can help reduce nasal congestion and relieve headaches. In addition,lavender essential oil can help soothe and calm the body, which can be particularly useful for insomnia caused by colds.

Essential oils can be used in a variety of ways to relieve cold symptoms. They can be diffused, allowing the active components to diffuse into the air and be inhaled. They can also be diluted in a carrier oil and applied locally to the chest or back for additional relief. Some people also prefer to use them by direct inhalation or steam inhalation.

As well as relieving symptoms, essential oils can also help boost the immune system and help the body defend itself against infection. By regularly using essential oils such astea tree or rosemary essential oil, you can boost your immune system to help prevent colds in the future.

Fighting colds

And because it's better to avoid catching a cold than to cure it, we'd also like to remind you of some good practices to follow, so you can enjoy a peaceful winter and the joys of the snowy season:

Anti-cold herbal teas: infusions of thyme are known for their antiseptic properties, while plantain is said to have an anti-inflammatory effect, particularly on the respiratory tract. Naturopaths also love Echinacea-based herbal teas.
Eat healthily: By adopting a balanced diet, you'll give pride of place to antioxidant-rich fruits and vegetables (pomegranate, berries and red berries, kiwi, almonds, broccoli, beet...) to help prevent minor winter ailments. Antioxidants boost the immune system.
Wash your hands: It may seem rather basic, even childish, but this hygienic gesture is of the utmost importance when it's cold outside. But why? Because colds and flu are more common in winter, and contagion is more likely. Attention to the youngest members of the family is particularly important: children catch colds more often than adults if they're not careful about contact. It's therefore a good idea to wash their hands very often to limit the circulation of viruses.
A good night's sleep: If you don't get enough sleep, your immune system will be weakened, and you'll be more likely to contract a viral illness such as the flu or a cold. So, to limit the risk of transmission, sleep well and long enough!
Drink well: Good hydration isn't limited to summer and high temperatures. It also contributes to good health, and the body needs water all year round. Coffee and tea (containing caffeine and theine) have a dehydrating effect on the body. Beer doesn't hydrate either, contrary to popular belief! Drink water and herbal teas, at least a liter and a half a day. And don't forget broths and soups, which contribute to water balance. Similarly, when you're sick with a cold, a good intake of fluids will help fluidify secretions and eliminate them from your nose and mouth.
Air out your home: Opening your windows doesn't just remove unpleasant odours. Above all, it renews the ambient air. Some people even recommend ventilating for 10 minutes twice a day. In the presence of a cold, this will help eliminate microbes in the ambient air. Think about it in the bedroom of a bedridden flu victim, too.
Exercise: Exercise stimulates the immune system and can help ward off illness. On the other hand, too much sport or exercise that is too intense can make you prone to illness, causing fatigue that the body finds hard to cope with. It's all about finding the right balance!
Put your nose to the grindstone: Make a point of getting out into the fresh air, for sport or just for a walk. That way, you won't be confined indoors.
Don't overheat: Heat is not a healthy factor in the home. The ideal indoor temperature should not exceed 20°C, and even 18°C in a bedroom.

For more information on how to treat colds with essential oils, don't hesitate to ask your pharmacist for advice.

What essential oils can I find on the Soin-et-Nature website?

Soin-et-Nature offers a complete range of essential oils to meet a wide range of health and well-being needs. Here are the sub-categories available:

For optimal, certified quality, essential oils chemotyped HECT and HEBBD guarantee purity and efficacy for therapeutic use.
For professional use, large-volume essential oils are available for intensive use.
To fight acne naturally, certain purifying and regulating essential oils help restore healthy skin.
To reduce the appearance of cellulite, targeted aromatic solutions promote drainage and tone the skin.
To accelerate healing, repairing and regenerating essential oils support skin repair.
For respiratory comfort, decongestant and expectorant essential oils facilitate breathing.
To boost natural defenses, immunostimulant essential oils help protect the body against external aggression.
To relieve cramps, certain relaxing and antispasmodic essential oils offer rapid relief.
To repel insects naturally, repellent essential oils provide effective protection.
To soothe headaches, targeted aromatic solutions provide fast, natural relief.
To support your slimming objectives, draining and toning essential oils accompany weight management.
To combat colds and winter infections, antiviral and expectorant essential oils offer effective respiratory support.
To relax and soothe muscles, relaxing and anti-inflammatory essential oils relieve muscular tension.
To promote quality sleep, relaxing and soothing essential oils help restore restful sleep.
To combat excessive perspiration, certain purifying and regulating essential oils offer a natural solution.
To eliminate warts, antiviral and keratolytic essential oils help treat these skin conditions.
To reduce stress and promote serenity, calming and balancing essential oils act effectively on the mind and body.

These essential oils available on Soin-et-Nature offer natural, effective solutions to care for your health, improve your well-being and meet targeted daily needs.