Asthma is a disease affecting the lungs and airways. Asthma sufferers have sensitive airways that become irritated and inflamed from certain triggers. The triggers can cause an asthma attack, trigger symptoms and may be dangerous.

There is no evidence to prove that essential oils can help people with asthma, however some essential oils can help to open up those airways, reduce the inflammation that causes asthma attacks, and more...

If a client is having a severe uncontrolled asthma attacks, a medical clearance should be obtained. However where the asthma is being managed well it is not necessary to consult a physician. Massage can be of great benefit to an asthmatic. Precautions include the use of fragranced oils which may trigger an attack.

The following oils have shown potential as alternative treatments for asthma symptoms:

Peppermint

Peppermint in the form of an herb is a common tea. Peppermint, in essential oil form, may help reduce symptoms of an asthma attack when used in a diffuser or diluted in a carrier oil and applied to the skin. It’s unclear how this happens, but it appears the oil may reduce asthma’s effect on bronchial smooth muscle.

Lavender

Breathing in diffused lavender essential oil may help reduce inflammation caused by allergies and asthma. Add to a blend to reap the benefits.

Clove

You likely know clove from the culinary world. This flower also produces an essential oil that may help relieve symptoms of asthma. When taken in a mixture with water, clove essential oil may help reduce symptoms such as wheezing, chest pain, and difficulty breathing.

Eucalyptus

Eucalyptus oil may be effective in helping people manage the symptoms of respiratory conditions such as asthma, bronchitis, and the common cold. However, eucalyptus oil is one that is dangerous to children.

Rosemary

Rosemary extract relaxes the smooth muscles of the trachea, this results in more relaxed breathing.

More recent research shows rosemary can reduce asthma symptoms in people who didn’t see improvement from traditional treatments. A decrease in asthma symptoms such as chest pain and wheezing is also noted.

Proceed with written permission from their GP.