While not serious or life-threatening, catching a common cold is one of the most annoying and unpleasant things that can happen to a person. Colds cause symptoms like stuffy noses and nasal discharge, coughs, sore throats, aching muscles, headaches and possibly fever. When you have a cold you feel terrible all over. Worst of all, the common cold is a highly contagious virus, so passing it among co-workers, classmates and family members is very easy to do. There is no cure for the common cold, but the market for over-the-counter remedies is booming. Many of these remedies come with a long list of side effects, but few actually prevent discomfort for any significant length of time. A better way to prevent and treat the common cold is with essential oils.
Using essential oils in your living and work space can actually prevent you from catching a cold. Many essential oils are antibacterial and they kill germs and strengthen our immune system, helping create a defense against sickness. Essential oils are safe to use on the regular basis, so you can begin preventative applications before you are at serious risk for catching a cold. Just by wiping your telephone, desk and other shared spaces with a lemon or peppermint spray, you are creating a barrier between you and cold germs. Inhaling oils like lavender, frankincense and rosemary may strengthen your bodies immunity to germs, giving you a pleasant way to avoid getting sick.
If you are unlucky enough to catch a cold virus, there are numerous ways essential oils provide comfort. Inhaling, massaging or bathing in these oils or a blend of these oils will decrease symptoms and in some cases, the duration of your illness. Eucalyptus clears your sinuses and helps heal the throat, and it also has a number of antibacterial benefits. Peppermint oil rubbed into the chest will loosen the congestion and provide relief from the hacking cough associated with the common cold. Finally, soaking in a warm tub with a few drops of lavender oil will soothe aching muscles and provide more restful sleep, which is essential to healing.
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