Asthma, a chronic lung disease often associated with allergies, may only be seen as just an occasional cough to some, but those who have experienced this chronic respiratory disease on a personal level know how serious it can truly be. Asthma affects approximately 25 million Americans and this number only continues to grow. Asthmatics often suffer from flare-ups at night and in severe cases, these attacks can rapidly lead to late-night emergency room visits. While inhalers, antihistamines, immunotherapy and breathing treatments are often necessary in the treatment of asthma, many people are unfortunately unaware of the relieving benefits they could receive from aromatherapy. Aromatherapy, the practice of inhaling natural healing essential oils for psychological and physical well-being, has been used for hundreds of years for the treatment and management of respiratory health.
Asthma is a problematic inflammatory disease that negatively affects the passageways of the lungs. During an asthma attack, the inner walls of the airway become inflamed and narrowed and can compromise breathing. This is why, first and foremost, having an inhaler and emergency plan established is vital in the case of a severe attack. In mild cases, however, Lavender oil has proven to be very effective in helping to fight inflammation and open the airway since it acts as a natural anti-inflammatory. Lavender oil is one of the most studied essential oils and of all of the many great health benefits Lavender oil holds, its healing effects on the respiratory tract has been one of the most reported. Lavender oil is also a natural expectorant, promoting the release of secretion in the airway and making coughs more productive and the lungs more clear.
Peppermint essential oil helps suppress asthma symptoms by relieving the muscle contraction of the lungs and acting as a natural antihistamine. When the body is exposed to an allergen- commonly a main asthma trigger- histamines are released by the body as a reaction. Peppermint hinders the release of histamines, helping to prevent these asthma symptoms. Peppermint oil also contains menthol, a natural decongestant, which quickly and efficiently clears out nasal passages.
Another great essential oil effective in relieving and controlling troublesome asthma symptoms is Lemon. Lemon essential oil is well-known for easing unpleasant coughs and soothing the airway. Lemon oil has strong anti-viral properties and has been proven to be highly effective in the relief and treatment of asthma, influenza, bronchitis, and the common cold.
There are several different ways to experience the respiratory benefits of these extraordinary essential oils through the art of aromatherapy. One of the most advantageous and commodious ways to easily implement these healing effects into your daily life is by adding these essential oils to your shower water by using an aromatherapy shower head and receiving these benefits through steam inhalation.
While an allergic reaction is very unlikely, it’s still important for anyone suffering from a chronic respiratory illness that affects their breathing to inform their doctor about their interest in using essential oils beforehand. Although you shouldn’t use essential oils to replace your current asthma medication without approval, the use of aromatherapy can be a very beneficial addition when looking for a natural supplement able to help prevent symptoms from developing and possibly even decrease how often you have to use your rescue inhaler. If you’re looking for a natural remedy, these essential oils and their ability to heal and protect the lungs through aromatherapy may serve you well.