You have probably heard it said that essential oils support the immune system — but have you ever wondered how they actually do it? In the chemistry of essential oils, there are two compounds that are very powerful for the immune system. The first compound is called carvacrol – this one is found in Oregano and Thyme, and belongs to the phenol family, some of nature’s strongest protectors. Carvacrol attacks harmful microorganisms and damages their cell walls, which causes them to die.
The second compound is called limonene and is found in many essential oils, but appears in especially high concentrations in citrus peels. Essential oils like Lemon, Wild Orange, Grapefruit and Tangerine have high levels of limonene. Limonene supports the body’s natural cleansing process, targeting abnormal cells while leaving healthy ones alone. It also helps neutralize airborne and surface threats in your environment.
Think of these two powerhouse compounds -- carvacrol and limonene — as a one-two punch to the harmful pathogens that are so abundant through the fall and winter months. Use oils like Oregano, Thyme, On Guard, Lemon and Wild Orange for powerful, natural protection.
Keep reading to learn more about how to use these powerful immune-supporting oils!
Oregano is a VERY HOT oil because it is very high in carvacrol. Never use this oil topically without diluting it with a carrier oil. If you like to use "oil of oregano" such as what you find in health food stores, fill an empty 15 ml bottle with good quality olive oil and add 10 drops of doTERRA's oregano. Mix it thoroughly and taste test it. Add more drops of Oregano until you reach your preferred strength.
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Thyme is another VERY HOT oil. This is an oil that I find to be particularly good for the lungs. In fact, I have a little "party trick" that I like to use when I have a cough. Any time I use this method, it relieves a cough just about immediately. First, slather the entire chest with your favourite carrier oil. Next, add 1-2 drops of Easy Air and rub it into the area. Now, add 1 drop of Thyme and rub that in as well. I like to use this layering method rather than mixing the essential oils together. Applying the carrier oil first protects the skin from the strong sensation of the Thyme oil. I'm not wishing for you to suffer from a cough, but when you do, remember this tip!
On Guard is the OG (no pun intended) immune support blend. I use it every day in all the ways... toothpaste, hand soap, laundry soap, household cleaner, and diffusing. Especially in the winter time, I like to diffuse this one in the entryway of my home. Visitors' germs don't stand a chance.
Lemon is another super hero. With its high levels of limonene, it helps cleanse the body while delivering a much-needed lift to the mood during long dark days.
Wild Orange is my personal favourite citrus oil. I will never tire of its bright aroma and flavour! Use it for the limonene, love it for the aroma and taste.
I hope you have a very healthy winter, but make sure you keep some immune-enhancing essential oils on hand for those times when nasty pathogens want to take advantage of you. It's better to have them in the house and not need them, than to not have them when you need their help!
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