The immune system is a complex network of tissues, cells, and organs that protect your body from pathogens. It needs proper support in order to function at its best.
Here are 15 essential oils for boosting your immune system:
#1 Orange oil
Also called “sweet orange oil,” it comes from the fruit of the Citrus sinensis orange plant and is a natural remedy for hypertension, capable of improving blood flow.
Limonene, which is a monocyclic monoterpene that’s present in orange peel, is a potent defender against oxidative stress.
#2 Rosemary
It has a woody, evergreen like the scent and is part of the mint family. Thanks to its anti-fungal and antibacterial properties, rosemary is important for giving our immune system a helping hand when flu and cold season rolls around.
Moreover, it has been discovered that carnosol (a powerful antioxidant from rosemary) targets cells to reduce inflammation and can reduce the risk of cancer.
#3 Frankincense
Extracted from the Boswellia genus trees, it contains sesquiterpenes (around 8 percent) which stimulate the part of the brain that controls emotions.
Moreover, it contains monoterpenes (around 78 percent), which have calming properties and also keep the existing tissues and cells healthy.
#4 Wintergreen
Extracted from the leaves of the Wintergreen tree (botanical name – Gaultheria Procumbens) – native to North America, it has a fresh and sweet smell and scent.
It has anti-inflammatory properties and is beneficial for treating and preventing digestive disorders.
According to the data, bergamot oil is believed to prevent or treat many health conditions, including:
- Ringworm;
- Acne;
- Psoriasis;
- Anxiety;
- Non-arthritic joint pain;
- Chronic fatigue syndrome;
- Non-allergic rhinitis;
- Depression;
- Insomnia;
- Eczema;
- High LDL cholesterol;
- Headache;
- Food poisoning.
#5 Bergamot
Extracted from the fruit of the bergamot tree, it is used to reduce pain from muscle tension and headaches as well as skin wounds, infections, and sores.
Additionally, bergamot cures infections of the kidneys, intestines, colon and urinary tract.
#6 Geranium
Geranium, also called the “poor man’s rose,” is used to treat sore throats, acne, anxiety, insomnia, and depression.
It also acts as a tonic for the paired adrenal glands which produce numerous hormones including adrenaline.
#7 Peppermint
Peppermint contains many nutrients and minerals including copper or potassium, and has been found in a few Egyptian pyramids.
It is a superb natural treatment to bring down fever, particularly in children and has been studied as a natural alternative to prescription drugs to reduce spasms of the colon.
#8 Citronella
Obtained from the Cymbopogon Winterianus and Cymbopogon nardus plants, it can help treat and prevent colds, headaches, and fevers.
More importantly, it supports intestinal health, reduces inflammation, and fights free radical damage.
#9 Lemon
Extracted by cold-pressing the lemon peel, it helps rid your body of toxins and is also used to stimulate lymph drainage. Furthermore, due to its antifungal properties, lemon is used as a natural remedy for yeast infections.
#10 Lavender
This oil is well known for its capacity to help calm stress and for its sedative properties.
A study concluded that lavender may improve pain control after surgery and can be used to treat nervous disorders, headaches, and exhaustion
#11 Cinnamon
Extracted from Cinnamomum verum, it is highly concentrated and contains natural compounds with antioxidant properties, which makes it effective as a natural blood sugar stabilizer and circulation booster.
Cinnamon can also help remove blood impurities and boosts the immune system.
#12 Thyme
Derived from Thymus vulgaris, it is also a usual agent in Ayurvedic traditional practice.
This oil stimulates digestion, circulation, nervous responses and the secretion of hormones, and is also a good antiseptic and protector against infections.
#13 Chamomile
Derived by extracting natural ingredients from the chamomile flower, it possesses antioxidant and antimicrobial properties.
Chamomile has been used as a natural remedy for skin irritations, bruises, burns, anxiety, gas, nausea, and heartburn.
#14 Helichrysum
Helichrysum, also known by other names such as “everlasting” and “Immortelle,” has a special and intense scent.
It was also widely used in Eastern and Southern African culture for skin and liver problems, also lowering stress levels and supporting the blood flow.
#15 Ginger
Extracted from the fresh rhizome of the ginger plant, it is used to treat upset stomach, nausea, depression, respiratory conditions, exhaustion, hypertension, and inflammation.
It also stops infections that are caused by bacteria and microorganisms.
Tips
These essential oils can be dangerous if used incorrectly. For example, they are about 70 times more concentrated than the whole plant, therefore, they should not be used undiluted on the skin.
They also have a small molecular size which makes them able to penetrate the skin easily and enter the bloodstream.
In addition, many are not safe for internal use. Some also interact with prescription medications or are not advised for pregnant or nursing women.
References https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pubmed/17636381 https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pubmedhealth/PMH0032645/ https://www.sciencedaily.com/releases/2014/07/140708092555.htm http://www.sciencedirect.com/science/article/pii/S2221169115001033