Bug Off- Remedies for Symptoms of Cold and Flu

Sunset in Yellowstone National Park Photo by S. Rose

“The sun shines not on us but in us.”
-John Muir

As the seasons outside change, so do the seasons in our life. We do different activities, visit different places, see different people. Think about being in school verse summer break, or going to a Saturday Market verse getting veggies from the grocery store. Our body is constantly adapting to our new environments as well as to the weather. And while our bodies are made to adapt, some things slip through the cracks and cause us to come down with the "ick."

The symptoms can be easy to spot- a stuffy nose, a nagging cough, a groggy headache, or achy body.  While our immune system works to rid the bug, these symptoms can be such a draaaaaaaggggg, am I right? Sniffling all day, rubbing your nose raw, sinus pressure that feels like it's literally weighing you down. Waking up in the morning unable to breathe through your nose, now your mouth is crusty and your throat dry and sore. Should I mention- reader discretion advised?

Bleh.

You can choose to treat these symptoms with OTC medicine, don't forget to read the side effects, drowsiness, grogginess, not to mention what your dear liver might have to say. I usually turn these down and opt for alternatives, not only to avoid the usual fog that comes with cold medicine, but for the simplicity and effectiveness with which these natural remedies work for me.

Steam Inhalation:
Can be almost an instant relief. Not to mention the steam itself is relaxing and healing. Put a pot on the stove and fill it with water. Get it to where it's steamy- maybe bring it to a boil and let it cool for a minute, or let it warm up slowly until steam appears. Apply 5-10 drops of  a decongestant essential oil. I like Peppermint Essential Oil, Eucalyptus Essential Oil, Pine Essential Oil, or Cajeput Essential Oil.

We also have specially formulated blends designed to help you get the most out of your aromatherapy treatments. Our Breathe Easy Essential Oil Blend can be added to any steam inhalation, and can be used in a diffuser at night to help you sleep more comfortably.

Another great way to help relieve sinus pressure that causes headaches is through a compress. A hot compress can break up sinus pressure and help reduce pain and bring relief to headaches. A cold compress can help reduce swelling and restrict blood vessels- great for migraines- as well as cool a fever. You can add essential oils to the compress to heighten its effect and bring all around pain and decongestant relief.

Hot Compress
I like to put about 5 drops of our Breathe Easy essential oil blend into a bowl warm water- it needs to be pretty warm, but careful not burn your skin. Lie back and place the cloth over your forehead, nose and cheeks, and make sure you close your eyes. Wrapping it in plastic wrap helps hold it more firmly to your skin, but you can also press your hands into it gently. Leave on until it reaches body temperature. At this time, assess, try clearing your sinuses by gently blowing your nose, or letting them drain slowly. If airway feels clear, but a headache persists try a cold compress to reduce swelling and pain.

Cold Compress
In my Cold Compress I prefer a cold, wet cloth over ice. I take a cloth and set it in ice water, then set it in the fridge for about 10-15 minutes. I apply 4-5 drops of Peppermint essential oil because of its cooling and pain relief properties, and repeat what I did with the hot compress.

I might continue this little back and forth until my sinuses become clear or until my headache subsides. If pain persists or worsens please consult your doctor!

Preventative Measures
These remedies are great and all, but don't forget the most important thing you can do for your body during the changing seasons- PREVENTION.

We make a great massage cream and essential oil blend with a powerful antimicrobial component- Thyme Essential Oil. Our Immuboost Massage Treatment is great for stimulating circulation which helps your body create more white blood cells and fight infection. Also good for use against a cough or other respiratory ailments, apply some to your chest, back, and neck.

Cleansing the air in the environments you can control, can go a long way to keeping you and the people you love from coming into contact with airborne illness. Diffusing our Immuboost Spice Essential Oil Blend can help clear the air and provide those around with some beneficial properties. Plus it smells like home and immediately warms any room.

Get a flu shot, eat well, and exercise. There are some things that can't be substituted. Another little tool you can do for yourself is always insuring your body has the right nutrients to combat illness before you even start getting symptoms. Boosting your overall health system can keep problems from ever being a problem to begin with. Knowing the times of year I fare worse I prepare by taking daily Herbal supplements like our Ultra-Elderberry Plus which can act as an excellent anti-viral, antibacterial, and immune support. This can be taken up to a month in advance of challenging seasons and safe for kids in a smaller dose.

Another option for preventative support is our Ultra CCF Tincture Blend. Not only do you get the antiviral, antibacterial, and immune support properties, but it also helps suppress cough, and aid as a decongestant. While safe for children, consult your doctor before ingesting even highly diluted essential oils if you have concerns about symptoms, and always consult your doctor if you are pregnant or wanting to become pregnant before using essential oils.

Overcome your symptoms and plan ahead before you get taken out of your seasonal fun.


These statements have not been evaluated by the Food and Drug Administration. This product is not intended to diagnose, treat, cure, or prevent any disease.

Written By:

Savannah Rose

Photographer/Graphic Designer

Time Laboratories