Aromatherapy and other natural therapies are increasingly utilised for treating a wide range of conditions and illnesses, including catarrh. Their non-invasive approach and relative lack of side effects are their primary advantages, which are missing in conventional medical treatments. Natural therapies are more focused on a holistic approach to healthcare, treating the root causes of illnesses rather than the symptoms.
What is Catarrh?
Catarrh is a medical condition wherein excessive mucus is produced in the nose and throat, causing a blockage in the airways. Mucus production is part of our immune system's natural response to microbes. It traps bacteria and flushes them out to prevent diseases, while at the same time protecting the sensitive inner membranes that line our airways. However, excessive mucus production may lead to catarrh, which is characterised by the following symptoms:
- Stuffy nose
- Coughing
- Difficulty breathing
- Fever and headaches
- Lethargy
- Overproduction of mucus and phlegm
Catarrh may be caused by the common cold or flu or allergy, and it typically lasts for a week. However, some people have to endure it for months, if not years, and rely on over-the-counter medicines to relieve themselves of the discomfort which this condition brings.
Common Treatments for Catarrh
Conventional treatments for catarrh consist of nasal irrigation, decongestant drugs and antihistamines. These can bring temporary relief, but can also leave the airways dry and over sensitised.
The Benefits of Aromatherapy
Aromatherapy is the holistic practice of using plant-based oils to relieve pain and other physical and emotional disorders. Essential oils are effective in reducing stress and inducing relaxation, thus widely used in day spas as well as healthcare settings, including hospitals.
Essential oils can be used on their own or combined with other natural ingredients to produce massage oils, skincare products or haircare solutions. Diffusing the oils into the air also creates a healing environment as the fragrance of essential oils stimulates the brain's olfactory nerve, which is associated with the sense of smell. Taking a whiff of an essential oil blend can create positive feelings and speed up recovery from infection and disease.
How Can Aromatherapy Help Catarrh?
Essential oils are natural decongestants that relieve cough, nasal congestion, headaches and other discomforts due to catarrh. Whether you diffuse them, massage them onto your chest, throat and back, or pour a few drops into an inhaler to carry around with you wherever you go, you will, no doubt, find instant relief from your oil blends.
An aromatherapist will typically conduct an assessment of your condition and general health before deciding which essential extracts to use. As catarrh is often accompanied by significant congestion, decongestants such as cedarwood, eucalyptus, and ginger can be added to a steam inhaler as oils, or mixed into a bath for more general relief.
Other essential oils that are often prescribed to relieve congestion, inflammation and discomfort due to catarrh include:
- Lavender
- Lemon
- Pine
- Peppermint
- Tea Tree
- Sandalwood
- Oregano
- Rosemary
- Frankincense
- Clary Sage
To learn more about how aromatherapy can help you, contact a local aromatherapist in your area, or try online aromatherapy consultation. Or find more about other effective natural catarrh treatments.
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