Asthma is a disease with a long and difficult course, requiring an integrated approach.

To date, there is not a single scientifically proven tool that can completely cure asthma.

At the same time, there are a lot of medications and procedures that to some extent facilitate the life of asthmatics.

Despite this, millions of people prefer to use "natural" means. Sometimes they are looking for security. Sometimes cheapness. Among them there are those who, under the influence of popular online resources and local healers, turn to aromatherapy - the treatment with essential oils.

Essential oils in the treatment of bronchial asthma.

The therapeutic properties of volatile (essential) oils have been discussed for a long time.

Here is what modern science says about them:.

• Peppermint oil.

One of the mechanisms of developing an asthmatic attack is the release of histamine in response to contact with an allergen. Peppermint can stop the release of histamine by cells. The menthol contained in it unlocks blocked nasal passages, further facilitating breathing. The effect of peppermint oil in asthma is justified theoretically, but it has not been clinically proven.

• Lavender oil.

Essential lavender oil has the widest range of applications in non-traditional medicine. It has sedative and anti-inflammatory properties, thanks to which lavender oil is advised asthmatics. Efficacy not proven.

• Eucalyptus oil.

Recent laboratory tests confirm the antiseptic and anti-inflammatory properties of essential oil of eucalyptus. The effectiveness of asthma is not proven.

• Tea tree oil.

This oil has experimentally proven anti-inflammatory properties. It is believed that the tea tree helps to weaken the reaction to allergens in patients with asthma.

• Roman chamomile oil (Hammelum).

Another essential oil with pronounced anti-inflammatory properties. Perhaps, it weakens the allergic reaction, facilitates coughing and enlarges the bronchi.

As we see from these mean lines, when describing the properties and effects of essential oils, one often has to use the word "possibly".

The truth is that the benefits of essential oils in asthma have not been clinically confirmed.

Ways of using essential oils.

There are three main ways of using essential oils in asthma in alternative medicine:.

• Inhalation of oils.

Some essential oils, including lavender and eucalyptus, are evaporated in special aroma and aroma lamps. They are recommended to alleviate the condition of asthmatics, and also to get rid of pathogens in the air.

• Outwardly.

Active components of essential oils can easily penetrate the skin. To avoid burning and irritating the skin, dilute the essential oil with a sufficient amount of essential fatty oil.

• Inside.

Some essential oils are released in the form of capsules for internal administration. Despite a solid list of possible useful effects, one should remember about the poorly studied risks of such additives!.

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