Which essential oils are effective in treating bronchitis?

Some have found that diffusing a mixture of Ammi Visnaga and Eucalyptus Radiata in a 1:4 ratio and using it for 20 minutes twice a day also may help to temporarily relieve bronchitis symptoms.* Some have found that this combination of oils clears their congestion and relaxes their breathing.* Ammi Visnaga is expensive, but when you combine it with Eucalyptus Radiata, it's more affordable, and the two oils work together very well.
Another suggestion would be Amrita’s Ultimate Flu Fighter Kit, but this is for viral infections only.* The combination of Thyme Thujanol, Bay Laurel, and Niaouli help open the bronchi as well as help combat the symptoms of bacterial and viral infections.* Let’s take a closer look at each part of this kit:

• Thyme Thujanol in Olive Oil — Gentle and mild, with the therapeutic benefit of the more aggressive Thymes. It is a potent anti-viral that boosts the immune system.* It helps to relieve respiratory symptoms, colds, flus, and sore throats.* It is also certified organic and is a known disinfectant.*
• Note: Take 8-9 drops three times daily under the tongue. Leave under the tongue as long as possible, then swallow.* This is the most important part of the regimen. Continue this until symptoms have subsided, but not longer than 10 days.* Warning: Never do this with any other thyme, like white or red thyme, as they are too aggressive.*
• Bay Laurel in Sunflower Oil — This is a potent essential oil helpful for removing mucus from respiratory channels and strengthening immunity.* It's antiseptic and mucus-clearing effects make it a practical oil to have on hand for colds and congestion.*
• Note: Massage over the lymph nodes at least twice daily until symptoms have subsided, but again do not use longer than 10 days.*
• Niaouli — This essential oil contains the infection-fighting properties of Tea Tree and Eucalyptus. Niaouli is known to help alleviate bronchitis, catarrh, congestion, coughs, sinusitis, asthma, and sore throat.*
• Note: Use in a diffuser or inhale from bowl with hot water. 10 drops per application maximum.*

Others have found that strengthening the respiratory system can help combat against symptoms of bronchitis.* Amrita’s experts would highly recommend Respiratory Health Tri-Essence® Power Blend, Breathe Easy Synergy Blend, and Respiration Synergy Blend.

• Respiratory Health Tri-Essence Power Blend — This Tri-Essence Power Blend is the product you need when you are serious about improving your health in this vital function of physiology, the respiration.* When the body is attacked by a flu virus or a bacterial infection of the sinuses or lungs, the respiratory system is impaired, making it extremely difficult to breathe properly.* Respiratory Health is a solution for either case, whether your symptoms are acute or chronic.* It can help you recover faster from being ill; and it can provide support for your sinuses, lungs, throat and entire respiratory system, improving the quality of your breathing and your life.*
• Breathe Easy Synergy Blend — This synergy blend uses Citronella, Sweet Eucalyptus, and Siberian Fir to reduce respiratory blockages and strengthening your respiratory system, you can enjoy a wide range of health benefits such as more clarity, energy, and lightness of being.* Breathe Easy can help you enhance your respiratory functions; thus, it can enhance your life.*
• Respiration Synergy Blend — This synergy blend uses Eucalyptus, Siberian Fir, and Niaouli to soothing sore throats and breathing passages.* It is antiseptic, attacking mucus and the cold virus.* It is good for treating and preventing colds, particularly with congestion.* Lastly, Respiration can help enhance your bronchial functions; thus, it can enhance your lung capacity.*

*These statements made on this page have not been evaluated by the U.S. Food and Drug Administration (FDA). They are not intended to diagnose, cure, or prevent any disease. If a condition persists, please contact your physician or healthcare provider. The information provided is not a substitute for a face-to-face consultation with a healthcare provider, and should not be construed as medical advice.

The following essential oils have traditionally been used for bronchitis:

• Citronella — This naturally invigorating essential oil that uplifts the mood while helping protect you from environmental stressors.* It encourages the lungs to take in more air.* Citronella has an uncanny ability to revive exhausted bodies and relieve typically sore muscles at the same time.*
• Note: Citronella Essential Oil can cause allergic reaction to the skin of some users.* It is suggested for first-time users to apply a patch test before applying broadly.* Dr. Streicher suggests using Citronella in a nebulizer, diffuser, or inhaler for bronchitis.
• Sweet Eucalyptus and Eucalyptus Radiata — Both of these Eucalyptus varieties lend a refreshing scent that helps open the breathing passages.* Just its presence in the air has a purifying influence.* Sweet Eucalyptus is immediately recognizable by its aroma, as it is a key ingredient in cough and cold chest rubs, inhalers, and medicines, but isn’t as safe as Eucalyptus Radiata to use around children.* The warming effect of Eucalyptus is helpful in soothing sore throats and breathing passages.*
• Note: Both Eucalyptus Oils has been found to be non-irritant and non-sensitizing to the skin.* However, they are poisonous if ingested, and even small amounts can be fatal.* Not appropriate for use with babies and small children.* Thus, Dr. Streicher suggests using Sweet Eucalyptus (for adults only) or Eucalyptus Radiata (safe for children over the age of 4) in a nebulizer, diffuser, or inhaler for bronchitis.
• Siberian Fir — Bring relief to symptoms that affect the upper and lower respiratory tracts by using Siberian Fir Essential Oil.* Its fresh, sweet, and balsamic scent can purify stale air.* It is often included in blends designed to be diffused over the holidays. It is particularly known to soothe occasional muscle aches and joint conditions.* It also has properties to support mental clarity and ease symptoms associated with anxiety.*
• Note: Siberian Fir Essential Oil is non-toxic and non-sensitizing.* However, it can be a skin irritant.* Thus, Dr. Streicher suggests using Siberian Fir in a nebulizer, diffuser, or inhaler for bronchitis.
• Spike Lavender — This type of lavender oil that is much better suited for use as an expectorant, to help clear mucus and phlegm, and for easing aches and pains.* Emotionally, Spike Lavender Essential Oil is more energizing and stimulating than is true Lavender Essential Oil.* It promotes concentration and focus more than does true Lavender Essential Oil.* Due to it’s high camphor content, Lavender Spike is perfect for massage as it warms and relaxes muscle tissue.*
• Note: Due to potent contents of camphor within Spike Lavender Essential Oil, please keep this essential oil away from children.* Dr. Streicher suggests diluting Spike Lavender in your favorite carrier oil and using it for targeted topical application on the chest.
• Niaouli — This essential oil has a clarifying effect on the breathing passages and is antiseptic, protecting your respiratory system from airborne infections. While Niaouli is related to Tea Tree, but its effects are more similar to Cajuput, which is in the same family. A perfect contender for respiratory concerns, Niaouli can help you breathe easier during seasonal pollen threats.* In addition to fighting infections and supporting your immunity, Niaouli is also helpful with blemishes or even minor scratches.* For aches and pains caused by aging, Niaouli Essential Oil is a great addition to carrier oils or lotions to help provide alleviation to affected areas.*
• Note: Niaouli Essential Oil is non-toxic, non-irritant, and non-sensitizing.* Use in a diffuser or inhale from bowl with hot water. 10 drops per application maximum.*
• Rosemary Cineol 1.8 — Its main effect on the respiratory organs and the nervous system.* It is best used for alleviating respiratory ailments like mucous, bronchitis, and sinusitis.* It also supports all mental functions and creates alertness.* This Rosemary contains more camphor than Spike Lavender making it similar to many Vicks products on the market.*
• Note: Rosemary Cineol 1.8 is non-toxic, non-irritant (when properly diluted), and non-sensitizing.* Avoid use if you have epilepsy, high blood pressure or are pregnant.* Rosemary essential oil should not be used on children who are 3 years of age or younger.* Dr. Streicher suggests using Rosemary Cineol 1.8 in a whole body massage blend (no more than 10 drops per tablespoon of carrier oil) or an aromatic bath (no more than 10 drops added to bath salts, milk, or similar before adding to a full bath).
• Turmeric — This potent essential oil has anti-inflammatory properties and assists in detoxification. Embrace a soothing sense of well-being through Turmeric-infused massages to alleviate itching, bruising, soreness, pain, cramps, and inflammation.* Turmeric can also support and strengthen immune function and encourage a positive response.* Surprisingly, it can help manage respiratory conditions that make breathing difficult, such as asthma, symptoms of allergies, and colds.*
• Note: Turmeric Essential Oil is moderately toxic and irritant in high concentration.* Possible sensitization problems.* It should not be used by those with gallbladder problems, bleeding disorders, diabetes, gastroesophageal reflux disease (GERD), infertility, iron deficiency, liver disease, hormone-sensitive conditions, and arrhythmia.* Dr. Streicher suggests using Turmeric in a nebulizer, diffuser, or inhaler for bronchitis.

Learn more about aromatherapy or see our how to use essential oil videos.

*These statements made on this page have not been evaluated by the U.S. Food and Drug Administration (FDA). They are not intended to diagnose, cure, or prevent any disease. If a condition persists, please contact your physician or healthcare provider. The information provided is not a substitute for a face-to-face consultation with a healthcare provider, and should not be construed as medical advice.