Essential oils have become an increasingly popular way to assist a number of ailments. Here you will learn about the best essential oils for steam inhalation so that you can start benefiting from their healing properties right away.
Steam inhalation is one method of using essential oils, as the steam helps carry the oil’s healing properties into the lungs and bloodstream. To get the most out of your steam inhalation session, it is important to use only the best essential oils for this purpose.
Can I Use Essential Oils In Steaming?
When it comes to using essential oils in steam inhalation, there is a bit of debate. Some say that essential oils are too concentrated and could irritate the lungs if used in steaming. Others say that essential oils can be beneficial when used in steaming, like helping with cold and flu symptoms.
Research suggests that some essential oils may be more appropriate for steam inhalation than others.
Certain citrus oils like lemon or orange can be safely inhaled during steaming as they are not overly concentrated and contain antiseptic properties. Lavender oil has is generally safe for use in steam inhalation as well due to its calming effects on the respiratory system.
It is also important to remember that those with existing respiratory conditions should always consult their doctor prior to using any type of essential oil for steam inhalation for safety reasons.
How to Do a Steam Inhalation
To use essential oil for steam inhalation, add a few drops of the oil to a bowl of steaming hot water and place a towel over your head to create a tent. Inhale the steam deeply for 5-10 minutes.
Let’s get started exploring the best essential oils for steam inhalation!
Top 10 Essential Oils For Steam Inhalation
Using essential oils in combination with steam inhalation can be an effective way to get natural relief from many common ailments without having to take over-the-counter medications or treatments. The key is finding the right essential oil or blend of oils that works best for you.
With so many options available, from tea tree oil to juniper berry oil and peppermint oil, there’s sure to be one that will provide the relief you need.
1. Eucalyptus Essential Oil
Eucalyptus oil is one of the most popular essential oils used in steam inhalation.
- It has strong antiseptic and decongestant properties.
- Acts as a natural expectorant, making it ideal for clearing sinuses, relieving chest congestion, and calming a cough.
- It also offers relief from headaches and muscle pain.
- When added to hot water, eucalyptus oil produces a vapor that is cooling and refreshing.
Be sure to use only 100% pure eucalyptus essential oil for steam inhalation, as lower quality oils may contain additives that can be irritating. This oil is also a favorite for diffusing, check out our Eucalyptus Diffuser Blends.
2. Peppermint Essential Oil
Peppermint oil is another top essential oil for steam inhalation, as it can help to reduce nasal congestion and clear the nasal passages.
- Its menthol properties make it a great choice for those suffering from colds and allergies.
- When combined with steam, its antiseptic, anti-inflammatory, and decongestant effects can be intensified
- Reduces inflammation, open breathing, and relieve congestion.
- It can also help ease headaches and provide energy, making it an ideal choice for those who suffer from sinus headaches.
3. Tea Tree Essential Oil
Tea tree oil is a versatile essential oil that can be used as an effective remedy for many respiratory ailments.
- When added to a steam inhalation remedy, it can help to clear congestion and reduce inflammation.
- It has antifungal and antibacterial properties, making it especially helpful for sinus infections, colds, flu, and other respiratory infections.
To use tea tree for an essential oil facial steam inhalation, add 1 to 3 drops of the oil to a bowl of boiling water. Cover the head with a large towel, lean over the bowl at a comfortable distance for up to 10 minutes.
4. Lavender Essential Oil
Lavender oil is one of the most popular essential oils for aromatherapy, and it works well for steam inhalation too.
- Its has a calming, soothing aroma that helps relax the body and mind.
- Its antiseptic, anti-inflammatory, and antibacterial properties make it especially helpful for clearing nasal congestion and relieving sinus infections.
- Lavender oil is known for its ability to promote deep, restful sleep, making it a perfect choice for relieving insomnia and other sleep disorders.
Make sure to only use pure lavender essential oil for steam inhalation, as lower quality oils may contain impurities that can irritate the lungs.
5. Lemon Essential Oil
Lemon oil can be used for steam inhalation, as the citrusy aroma is both refreshing and energizing.
- Helps to cleanse the air, as it contains natural antimicrobial properties.
- It has uplifting and mood boosting effects
- Lemon oil is known to help soothe sore throats and break up mucus, making it ideal for anyone suffering from congestion or a cold.
6. Rosemary Essential Oil
Rosemary essential oil is a great addition to steam inhalation. It is known for its calming and relaxing properties which can help reduce stress and anxiety.
- Improves respiratory issues, mental fatigue, and headaches.
- Add to steam inhalation mixtures to help open up the airways, ease sinus congestion, and increase oxygen flow.
- Its antiseptic and antibacterial properties help to clear out toxins and bacteria from the respiratory system.
7. Oregano Essential Oil
Oregano oil is one of the top essential oils for steam inhalation due to its powerful antibacterial and antiviral properties.
- It contains carvacrol and thymol, which have been found to have antimicrobial effects.
- Inhaling the scent of oregano oil can help reduce symptoms of respiratory conditions such as bronchitis, sinusitis, and asthma.
- Reduces sore throat pain and congestion.
It is important to dilute oregano oil well with a carrier oil before using it for topical application as it can cause irritation if applied directly to the skin.
8. Juniper Berry Essential Oil
Juniper Berry is a powerful essential oil that has been used to keep the respiratory system healthy.
- It has antiseptic, anti-inflammatory and expectorant properties that make it ideal for steam inhalation.
- This essential oil is also known to reduce stress and anxiety and promote relaxation.
- Helps to reduce symptoms of congestion, asthma, and bronchitis.
When used in steam inhalation, Juniper Berry oil helps to open up the airways, reduce inflammation in the nasal passages, and clear out mucus, making it easier to breathe.
9. Chamomile Essential Oil
Chamomile oil is known for its calming and soothing properties, and is often used to assist with anxiety, insomnia and other stress-related conditions.
- When used in steam inhalation, chamomile oil helps to open up the airways and reduce congestion, allowing you to breathe easier.
- Its anti-inflammatory and anti-bacterial properties can help to reduce swelling and fight off infection in the lungs.
- Try an essential oil combination as chamomile and lavender can help promote better sleep due to their sedative properties.
10. Frankincense Essential Oil
Frankincense oil is an excellent oil to use in steam inhalation for health reasons.
- It has antimicrobial and anti-inflammatory properties that make it helpful for aiding respiratory and sinus conditions, such as colds, allergies, and bronchitis.
- It can be used to reduce stress, relieve pain, and improve your overall mood.
- This oil is often used in aromatherapy and has a pleasing, uplifting aroma that can help with relaxation.
To use frankincense oil for steam inhalation, add a few drops to a bowl of hot, steaming water and inhale the vapors for several minutes. As an alternative, use frankincense oil in a diffuser.
What are some other essential oils can I use for steaming?
While we have just highlighted the best oils for steam inhalations, here are a few more that people have found helpful:
- Thyme
- Basil
- Ginger
- Cardamom
- Marjoram
- Cypress
- Grapefruit
- Douglas Fir
Benefits Of Using Essential Oils For Steam Inhalation
Steam inhalation with essential oils is a remedy used to assist various ailments. It is a simple and effective way to reap the benefits of natural therapeutic oils and help alleviate sinus congestion as well as other respiratory issues.
Inhaling essential oil vapors can quickly open sinuses and reduce congestion. These oils contain anti-inflammatory properties that aid in reducing inflammation in the airways, thus providing relief from congestion symptoms.
The steam vapors also helps loosen mucus buildup inside the nose, which can further reduce pressure from sinus headaches. It can reduce inflammation throughout the body.
Steam inhalation with essential oils can also be beneficial for people with respiratory conditions. The vapors produced by these natural remedies have been found to have a calming effect on both the lungs and airways, helping to ease shortness of breath and chest tightness.
Emotional Benefits of Steam Inhalation
Additionally, using essential oils during steam inhalation has several other health benefits such as:
- Helping reduce stress levels
- Boosting energy levels
- Easing tension
Steam inhalation with essential oils is an easy and cost-effective way to reap the many therapeutic benefits of natural aromatherapy without needing any specialized equipment or expensive ingredients.
Not only can it help alleviate sinus congestion caused by allergies or colds, but it can also improve overall respiratory health while providing relaxation and calming effects on both the mind and body.
Safety Precautions for Steam Inhalation with Essential Oils
It's important to remember to always follow safety precautions when using essential oils for steam inhalation or any other aromatherapy purposes. Be sure to use pure essential oils and never apply undiluted essential oil directly onto the skin.
Additionally, people with asthma or other respiratory conditions should always consult their doctor before using any type of essential oil in steam inhalation due to potential risks associated with this practice.
Also, keep in mind that some essential oils can be quite potent; it's best to start with one or two drops per cup of water before increasing the drops as needed.
Discontinue use immediately if the steam makes you feel lightheaded, nauseated, or experience any adverse reactions.
Be sure to keep eyes closed during steaming to avoid irritation from the steam and essential oils.
Considering all of these factors, it is clear that while essential oils may be suitable for use in steaming, care must be taken when deciding which ones to use and how much of them should be used.
Essential Oil Combinations for Steam Inhalation
Try a few different aromas to find which one works best for you. Breathe in the calming and soothing scent of the blend. With the right combination of essential oils, steam inhalation can provide much-needed relief from common ailments. Enjoy the positive benefits of steam inhalation with essential oils!
- Tea Tree and Douglas Fir
- Lavender and Chamomile
- Tangerine and Cedarwood
- Peppermint and Eucalyptus
- Lavender, Lemon and Peppermint
Final Thoughts on Steam Inhalation Essential Oils
Using essential oils for steam inhalation can be a great way to improve your overall health and wellbeing. Essential oils are incredibly versatile, offering a wide range of therapeutic benefits that can help relieve sinus congestion, reduce stress and anxiety, and even soothe minor aches and pains.
Not only can it help alleviate sinus congestion caused by allergies or colds, but it can also improve overall respiratory health while providing relaxation and calming effects on both the mind and body.
Overall, there are many different types of essential oils that can be used for steam inhalation, each offering its own unique set of benefits. Whether you're looking for relief from sinus congestion or just want a relaxing aromatherapy session at home, incorporating these powerful botanical extracts into your routine could prove to be beneficial in more ways than one!
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