Winter discomforts

It is wintertime, the wind and the cold attack our natural defences and make us more prone to chills and colds. Fortunately, the essential oils can help us to have a healthy winter.

Blocked nose?

Then think steam inhalation! An effective folk remedy...

In a bowl of boiling water pour:

- 3 drops of essential oil of mint eucalyptus (Eucalyptus dives)
- 3 drops of essential oil of niaouli (Melaleuca quiquenervia)
- 3 drops of essential oil of Scotch pine (Pinus sylvestris)

Put a towel on top of the bowl and breathe deeply, inhaling the vapour from the essential oils for 5 to 10 minutes.

NB: Protect your eyes from the steam by maintaining the towel below the eyes.

Blocked nose? (2)

If you do not have time for a steam inhalation or if you are asthmatic, place a few drops of essential oil of peppermint (Mentha piperita) on a handkerchief or tissue and gently inhale.

Have caught cold?

Then boost your natural defences in two steps:

Step 1: Take a hot bath with 5 drops of essential oil of Eucalyptus radiata and 5 drops of essential oil of tea tree (Melaleuca alternifolia).
Always DILUTE the essential oils in a tablespoonful of whole milk before adding to the bath water.

Step 2: Rub the following blend on the chest and spin:
For adults:
- 2 drops of essential oil of eucalyptus radiata
- 6 drops of essential oils of ravintsara (Cinnamomum camphora ct cinéole)
- 2 drops of essential oil of niaouli (Melaleuca quinquenervia)

For children (3 months to 6 years) reduce to the half of the dosage and dilute in one tablespoon of vegetable oil (of sweet almond e.g.)