10 Essential Oils For Post Nasal Drip

When the mucus runs down the back of the nose to the throat, it is called postnasal drip.

Common symptoms include – dry mouth, severe bad breath, fatigue, nausea, sore throat, rhinorrhea, constant swallowing, coughing. or throat clearing.

Possible causes could include:

eating spicy foods;
dehydration;
throat disorders;
acid reflux;
changes in temperature;
seasonal or year-round allergies;
high blood pressure;
the flu;
a cold.

Here is a list of the top 10 essential oils for post nasal drip:

#1 Eucalyptus

It is a powerful disinfectant and contains strong anti-inflammatory agents too. This essential oil can be used to get relief from sinus inflammation and nasal congestion.

Moreover, it has antibacterial effects on harmful bacteria in the upper respiratory tract, including some strains of Streptococcus and Haemophilus influenzae (a type of bacteria responsible for numerous infections), according to a study issued in Clinical Microbiology & Infection.

If it is used topically, this oil enhances feelings of relaxation, revitalizes tired muscles and skin, facilitates easy breathing, and soothes nervous tension.

#2 Tea Tree

This oil is produced by steaming the leaves of the tea tree plant, a native of the Australian coast. It contains terpinen–4–ol, a plant compound that exhibits antimicrobial properties which deal with sinus invaders.

You may apply this natural remedy directly to the chest or beneath the nostrils to help ease your breathing difficulties, however, don’t forget to dilute it first with a carrier oil, like jojoba oil.

Note – over usage of tea tree essential oil can irritate the mucous membranes of the nose and throat, hence, it is essential to follow the instructions as given above. Also, avoid using it if you are allergic to it.

#3 Peppermint

The peppermint herb is a versatile perennial plant that has been cherished since ancient times.

When you had the flu or the common cold, you have most probably used an over-the-counter medicine that provides relief from sore throats, blocked nasal passages, postnasal drip, and chest congestion.

More often than not, these medicines contain peppermint essential oil with its active soothing and cooling ingredient, menthol.

Similar to other essential oils, peppermint essential oil is able to provide fast relief from depression, emotional stress, anxiety attacks, and mental exhaustion because of its refreshing nature.

#4 Rosemary

It is good for relieving flu and cold symptoms due to the fact that it is a warming oil, which reduces pains and aches, relieves nausea, and helps in circulation.

Also, this essential oil decreases swelling (including facial swelling which occurs with underactive thyroid disease), reduces joint pain, decreases stress-causing cortisol, and boosts the function of the liver and gallbladder.

There are various other claims regarding the possible benefits of rosemary essential oil, including its use for disorders regarding menstrual cramps, menstrual cycle, urine flow, peptic ulcer, prostate, intestine, cataract, sperm mobility, heart, kidney stones, and leukemia.

#5 Lavender

Lavender essential oil clears the sinuses by helping to relieve the inflammation as well as it helps to fight the nasty germs and bacteria which cause the infection.

Using lavender oil can also help to have an easier time sleeping and to achieve a calmer, more relaxed state.

To use it, you can add some of the lavender oil to a spray bottle and apply it to your pillow at night. To stop a nosebleed or post nasal drip, put a drop of lavender essential oil on a tissue and wrap it around a small chip of ice.

Note – keep out of the reach of children. If you are pregnant or breastfeeding a baby, consult your doctor before use.

#6 Marjoram

It can be used as an expectorant, dispelling phlegm and mucus and relieving congestion in the larynx (the voice box), nasal tract, lungs, and pharynx because of viral infections and colds.

Furthermore, it has antiseptic properties, thus preventing both external and internal wounds from becoming infected. Also, this essential oil can reduce the pain which sometimes comes with muscle spasms or muscle tightness as well as tension headaches.

#7 Lime

This essential oil is made from Citrus aurantifolia of the Rutaceae plant family, an evergreen tree that grows between 6 and 13 feet high and has dark green leaves.

It promotes a healthy inflammatory response, assisting in clearing the sinuses.

#8 Cedarwood

It is extracted via the process of steam distillation of leaves and wood from Cedar trees. The principal constituents of this essential oil include – Terpenic hydrocarbons and sesquiterpenes.

It can be used to help ease the breathing symptoms which are typical during sicknesses like the flu and the common cold.

#9 Lemon

It is considered that lemon essential oil is useful for treating asthma because inhaling the aroma of lemons can clear sinuses and the nasal passages, promoting steady breathing and good airflow.

Additionally, studies show that due to the chemical makeup of this essential oil, it helps improve mood with an invigorating and energizing aroma.

It blends well with many other essential oils including rose oil, lavender oil, peppermint oil, sandalwood oil, tea tree oil, and geranium oil, making it a favorite oil for people who practice the healing art of aromatherapy.

#10 Frankincense

This essential oil helps prevent the breakdown of cartilage tissue which can cause rheumatoid arthritis and inhibits the formation of inflammatory molecules, according to the scientists at Cardiff University.

Also, similar to other essential oils, it can affect the production of neurotransmitters and hormones when it is inhaled.

In addition, frankincense essential oil can be used in an inhaler or a diffuser to clear up respiratory blockages and treat colds.

Notes

To help thin the mucus and to replace the fluids lost during the flu or a cold, try to drink at least six to eight glasses per day.

Post-nasal drip is rarely an emergency, however, it is recommended to get medical help if you are drooling, choking, or unable to swallow.

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