Essential Oils for Immune Support
While there are many beneficial essential oils out there- only a few make the list for my “top” immune boosting oils.
Continuing reading to find out and as always be sure to consult your doctor prior to using essential oils.
What are essential oils and why should you be using them?
“Essential oils are the essence of a plant, a gift from the earth, distilled and prepared for you to bring the power of nature into your home.
Inside many plants—hidden in roots, seeds, flowers, bark—are concentrated, highly potent chemical compounds. These natural compounds are essential oils.
Essential oils give a plant its scent, protect it from hazardous environmental conditions, and even assist it with pollination, among other important functions and benefits.”
These powerful compounds have been used for centuries for scent, to heal, disinfect and support the body in ways that food and supplements can’t.
When you hear the word “essential oil” what comes to mind?
Most people think of essential oils as being in their beauty or skin care products. But, essential oils have many more incredible uses such as: balancing moods, decreasing stress, improving pain and inflammation, regulating hormones, natural sleep aid etc. The list goes on and on, but my favorite one of all is the way essential oils are used for immune support.
Essential oils play a large role in supporting our body’s overall health and now there is more and more research confirming that these oils have huge immune boosting effects as well.
Below are my top choices for immune boosting/immune supportive essential oils. And as with all things, I suggest choosing quality over quantity every time. Some people will say otherwise, but going off of my experience with other brands and after researching heavily- doTERRA does have THE BEST essential oils out there.
My top Essential Oils for Immune Support
#1 On Guard
On Guard essential oil should be at the top of everyone’s list!!
It is made with Wild Orange Peel, Clove Bud, Cinnamon Leaf, Cinnamon Bark, Eucalyptus Leaf, and Rosemary Leaf/Flower essential oils.
It can be taken internally in a capsule, used to wipe down counters, diffused in the air and used as a hand and clothing wash.
This oil really does it all:
~Protects against seasonal and environmental allergies
~Strengthens the immune system
~Supports respiratory function
~Has the ability to cleanse and purify the air
~Kill off harmful bacteria and viruses….etc
This is the one and done oil- if you can only buy one off of this list. I highly recommend this one!
#2 Oregano
Most commonly known as an Italian herb- oregano boasts some of the best immune benefits.
~Oregano is an anti viral, anti-bacterial and anti- fungal
~Oregano also contains strong anti-oxidant capabilities
~Studies have confirmed oregano to inhibit norovirus, staph, e. coli and strep
~Oregano can be used topically to clean counters, added as a seasoning to meals and taken internally in a veggie capsule
#3 Frankincense
This oil is known as the “King of all oils”
Frankincense has been used since biblical times and has now gotten the recognition it deserves with all the new found research
Frankincense has been used as a highly effective anti-inflammatory, anti bacterial and anti viral
Frankincense also protects against free radicals aka damage from environmental and industrial toxins as well as dietary toxins
Frankincense can be used topically as well as diffused and taken internally in a veggie capsule
#4 Eucalyptus
Eucalyptus is a very well-known scent as it has been widely used in over- the- counter cold and flu medicines for a long time to help break up and loosen mucus
Eucalyptus contains strong anti-bacterial and anti-inflammatory properties
It is rich in anti-oxidants and is very useful in clearing up congestion and opening air ways
Eucalyptus can be diffused into the air, added to a spray bottle to clean surfaces as well as adding a drop to your moisturizer to rub on the chest or under the nose to relieve congestion.
Eucalyptus is one EO that should not be ingested!
# 5 Thyme
Thyme is another popular herb most people use for cooking- however Thyme is great for coughs
Thyme has a special terpene that has proven to reduce coughs associated with upper respiratory infections
Thyme contains anti bacterial and anti microbial benefits
Thyme can be added to meals, taken internally in a veggie capsule and placed on the skin with a carrier oil to repel insects
So why should you add Essential Oils to your health cabinet?
Your immune system thrives on fresh, nutritious foods like organic fruits and vegetables, grass fed meats and free range eggs, wild caught fish, and healthy fats. These foods help your immune system operate at optimum capacity to protect you from infections and other serious illnesses.
However, when your body is lacking in these elements due to an inadequate diet, stress and/or pollution, your body reacts by producing toxic molecules known as “free radicals”, upsetting your immune system.
Scientific studies demonstrate that diffusion of essential oils, topical use and safe internal use can purify and cleanse the air while also providing significant internal protection. Taking essential oils is an excellent way to utilize their immune-boosting properties will supporting your immune system all year long.
To summarize…..
Pay attention to ingredients and sourcing with essential oils, as most essential oil companies are not created equal. Click here to see why I chose doTERRA.
Again, chose quality over quantity. Pure essential oil extraction takes time and skill. And if you are choosing a company that rushes the process or doesn’t extract properly then you are most likely not getting a pure essential oil.
Do your research and ask questions. Find a company that you trust and can feel good about using their essential oils in your daily routine.
As always I hope this was helpful- reach out with any questions!