Now that fall is upon us, there are many of us who will suffer colds, the flu, and seasonal allergies.
All these have in common the uncomfortable stuffy, runny nose that can make it nearly impossible to sleep at night. I have found a product that can prevent these sleepless nights for all members of the family: eucalyptus essential oil.
Eucalyptus oil is the main ingredient in the vapor rub that was probably used on you as a child. Although commercially available vapor rubs work, they often contain menthol, which can be irritating to the lining of the lungs, and petroleum by-products, which are good for no one. Luckily, eucalyptus oil is all-natural and just as effective at soothing coughs and breaking up nasal congestion as any over-the-counter medicine.
Using eucalyptus oil is very easy. You can place a few drops in a humidifier placed within your bedroom, or you can combine 3-4 drops with a teaspoon of sweet almond oil and apply the mixture to the bottom of the feet.
The humidifier may sound familiar to you, but the bottom of the feet method is particularly effective, even if it sounds a bit strange. The pores in the bottom of your feet are some of the largest on your body, and this allows the oil to reach into your body and soothe your cough and congestion. Many mothers, doctors, and cold sufferers swear by this method, and I attest to its effectiveness on my family.
Essential oils are highly concentrated forms of the compounds found in the plants from which they come. Because of this caution should be used when using any essential oil or botanical.
Eucalyptus oil is not recommended for undiluted application to the skin. Therefore, it is necessary to mix it with a carrier. I prefer sweet almond oil, but you could also use coconut oil, baby lotion, or olive oil. However, once the oil is diluted, it is perfectly safe for even the smallest members of the family.
Grab some of this wonderful oil today before the cold and flu settles into your house.