This winter I am experiencing the first cold that I have had in YEARS. I really have no one to blame but myself, as I have been sleeping too little and not being faithful enough with my supplements.
As I struggle with the runny nose, coughing and sneezing, I thought it's a good time to tell you some of the "tricks" that I have been using to shorten my misery.
Trick # 1: Use Lemon!
Lemon really helps to reduce mucous secretions -- it's one of the first remedies I ever learned. Add a drop of Lemon to hot tea or add it to your drinking water. It's simple, and it works! Other oils that help to reduce mucous are Myrrh and Geranium.
Trick #2: Make a Natural Chest Rub
A natural chest rub can help with coughing and congestion. For a one-time use ointment, put a bit of carrier oil and a few drops of Easy Air or Eucalyptus into your hand. Rub it all over the chest and throat. Need to kick it up a notch? Add a drop of Thyme essential oil! Other great oils to use for a chest rub include Rosemary, Myrrh, Copaiba, Cardamom and Frankincense.
For longer term use, make a roller bottle using about 30 drops of essential oils and the rest Fractionated Coconut oil. Or, make a solid ointment by melting virgin coconut oil, adding your oils to that, and letting it solidify.
Trick #3: Combine Honey and Oils
Honey is a wonderful natural remedy all on its own. Combining it with your essential oils makes it even more potent. I like to take a drop of Melissa with a bit of honey when I'm feeling under the weather. You can also make a tea with a few drops of On Guard, honey and a splash of milk. Or, make this throat-soothing recipe:
Trick #4: Use a Steamer Mug!
A steamer mug is a super simple way to unclog sinuses and ease breathing. You can also use a bowl, but a mug has a handle which I find is a good way to grip it. You can use all of the oils shown in the picture, or any combination. Or, pick others that you know will help with congestion (Eucalyptus, Easy Air, Rosemary, etc.)
The key when using essential oils for winter wellness is small amounts, frequently. Don't use your whole arsenal once in the morning and then nothing for the rest of the day. Instead, apply, consume or inhale different oils throughout the day that will help with your symptoms.
Get plenty of sleep, use your oils, drink lots of water, and take your vitamins -- you'll be back on your feet in no time.
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