The Practice of Steam Inhalation

Steam inhalation is the practice of combining herbs and essential oils with hot water to create therapeutic steam.  Essential oil steams are a good way to deliver therapeutic properties directly to the airways for relieving congestion, aches, and general discomfort of colds, flu, and other virus. The soothing warmth and moisture penetrates airways to help loosen and move mucus, delivering the herbs’ antiseptic, decongestant and airway-relaxing constituents right where they’re needed.

Herbs for Nasal Steam

Nasal Steam

The herbs in our Nasal Steam contain a natural source of essential oils of Eucalyptus, Peppermint, and Lavender. This combination has been shown to be antibacterial and antiviral, and effective for cough, congestion, sinus issues, and more as shown below.

Essential Oils for Cold, Cough, Congestion, and Flu Virus

Eucalyptus

A study published in the Alternative Medicine Review found that eucalyptol, the main component in eucalyptus, has antimicrobial properties and may fight off the bacteria that cause illnesses. Eucalyptol may also help to reduce inflammation, relieve pain, and ease muscle tension that can result from a cold or flu. 

Oregano

Oregano essential oil contains a high level of a potent compound called carvacrol.  Authors of a 2014 study found that carvacrol is an effective antimicrobial agent that fights off many types of germ. We often suggest oregano oil to our clients when they are struggling with sinus issues. 

Lavender

A 2015 animal study suggested that lavender essential oil may have analgesic, or pain-relieving effects, and that it also reduces inflammation.  We often use lavender or lavender oil to reduce pain and swelling in the sinuses. 

Peppermint

When menthol, a property of peppermint essential oil, is inhaled, it creates a cooling sensation that can soothe or numb a scratchy throat.  A 2013 study suggests that when a person uses peppermint oil, it can help to relax the bronchial muscles.  This may explain why the oil can ease breathing in people with coughs.

Rosemary

Rosemary is a common garden herb. Like eucalyptus, it contains the compound cineole. A study published in the journal Cough found that cineole, a major constituent in rosemary essential oil, helps to break up mucus and reduce inflammation.

Frankincense

Frankincense has been valued for its many benefits, one of which is the effect on the respiratory system. It has been used to treat coughs, catarrh, asthma, and bronchitis.

Tea Tree

Tea tree essential oilcan inhibit the growth of the bacteria that cause sinus infections and respiratory issues.

Safe Use for Children

You should not use steaming with young children as there is a risk for burning. The safest way to deliver the beneficial properties herbs to children for the purpose of congestion and cough is to add child safe essential oils to bath water, or use the Nasal Steam as a bath tea. Do not use essential oils of oregano with children. If not using the bath tea method with herbs, safe essential oil choices for children are lavender, frankincense, and tea tree, diluted in milk (to foster emulsion) and added to bath water.

How to Use Herbs and Essential Oils for Steaming

1 Quart Water

1/2 cup Nasal Steam Herbs  

and/or 3 to 6 Drops Essential Oils

1. Boil water. Turn off heat. Add herbs. Cover and let steep for 5 minutes.
2. If adding essential oils, otherwise you can skip this step. Add to a nonreactive bowl, such as glass or ceramic and add oils.
3. Lean over and take an experimental breath. If it feels comfortable, drape a towel over your head and breathe deeply through your nose if you have a cold or sinus infection, or through your mouth if you have a cough.

NOTE: Keep eyes closes and maintain a comfortable distance to avoid a burn or irritation.