Liz Seal Holistic Massage

With Liz Seal, MIFPA

The common cold is a mild, viral infection of the upper respiratory tract, while a cough is a reflex action to remove a build up of mucus and clear the airway of pollutants such as dust or smoke. These infections can cause irritation to the mucus lining of the nose, throat and lungs.

Essential oils can be used to soothe the symptoms of respiratory tract infections, and stimulate the body’s healing mechanisms. Oils that are anti-bacterial and anti-viral can directly attack the germs which cause infection. Some can also stimulate the immune system to better prepare us to fight off these germs before they can take hold.

Help for coughs and colds

To target a cough, we need oils with mucolytic, decongestant and expectorant properties. Mucolytic compounds promote healthy mucus to line the soft tissues of the respiratory tract. Decongestant and expectorant oils will aid the removal of the infected mucus.

Oils which enter the blood stream quickly and act rapidly to relieve breathing difficulties and reduce the stuffiness of a cold include the Eucalyptus family, along with Rosemary, Ravensara and Niaouli. Mucolytic, expectorant and sedative oils will soothe and relieve coughs, and include Hyssop, Peppermint, Rosemary and Cedarwood. An inhalation- simply breathing in warm air with molecules of essential oil- can be really helpful. Add a few drops of oil to a tissue or a bowl of hot water and place beside your bed or chair. A back massage with a blend of Essential oils in a carrier oil will introduce the oils directly to the affected area.
For further information see the bookings page to find available dates, or contact me.
Thanks for reading
Liz