Peppermint oil contains menthol. This compound may affect the mucus receptors in the nose, helping to open the airways and clear mucus. Lab studies show that peppermint oil may fight bacteria, one of the triggers of sinus congestion. Animal studies demonstrate that it may also reduce inflammation.
Is it harmful to inhale peppermint oil?
Pure essential oils are highly concentrated and can be toxic. Menthol can cause serious side effects in children, so parents and caregivers should not apply peppermint oil to a child’s skin or allow them to inhale or ingest it.
Where do you put peppermint oil for stuffy nose?
If you happen to have a bath tub, you can put a few drops of peppermint oil in it during your bath. Alternatively, you can put a few drops of it in a bowl of warm water. Breathing in the steam can help with stuffiness and help other sinusitis symptoms to subside.
Can essential oils damage your nose?
Essential oils are primarily made with plant-based ingredients and, just like other plant-based environment allergens, can cause nasal allergy or asthma symptoms. Nasal and asthma-related symptoms are more common when the oils are diffused and inhaled, causing: Asthma flare-ups. Congestion and/or a runny nose.
Who should not use peppermint oil?
People with a specific enzyme deficiency, called G6PD deficiency, should avoid using peppermint as an extract or oil in aromatherapy. People taking certain medications. Peppermint oil aromatherapy can inhibit an enzyme called CYP3A4, which is responsible for breaking down many types of medication.
Does sniffing peppermint oil help headaches?
Peppermint Is Used for Headaches and Other Types of Pain
This essential oil can be inhaled, applied to the skin after being diluted with a neutral oil, or taken by mouth in very small doses. Some pain studies show that peppermint oil used as aromatherapy for headache may allow people to use fewer pain medications.
Does peppermint oil open your sinuses?
Peppermint: Minty and refreshing with a potent fragrance, peppermint releases a menthol compound that aids the sinuses by loosening mucus and opening the nasal cavity. Peppermint has also been found to support the immune system, helping us clear out pesky infections.
How can I unblock my nose naturally fast?
Here are some things you can do now to feel and breathe better.
- Use a humidifier. A humidifier can be a quick and easy way to reduce sinus pain and help relieve nasal congestion.
- Take a shower.
- Stay hydrated.
- Use a saline spray.
- Drain your sinuses.
How does peppermint oil clear sinuses?
If you happen to have a bath tub, you can put a few drops of peppermint oil in it during your bath. Alternatively, you can put a few drops of it in a bowl of warm water. Breathing in the steam can help with stuffiness and help other sinusitis symptoms to subside.
Is it OK to put oil in your nose?
Using oil in the nose lubricates the nasal cavity and sinuses, offering protection from the recycled air, and creating a barrier against pollen and environmental pollutants.
How can I unblock my nose?
How can I get rid of a blocked nose?
- Be gentle when you blow your nose.
- Aim to drink 6-8 glasses of water a day.
- Hold a warm flannel to your cheeks.
- Dial-up the humidity.
- Try a nasal rinse with warm salty water.
- Use menthol ointment or oil.
- Ask a pharmacist about treatment options.
Can I use oil in my nose?
Petroleum jelly is generally safe to use. But rarely, breathing in (inhaling) fat-based substances (lipoids) — such as petroleum jelly or mineral oil — for long periods can cause lung problems. Petroleum jelly applied to the inside of the nostrils usually drains down the back of the nose with normal nasal secretions.
What are the benefits of inhaling peppermint oil?
In aromatherapy, peppermint oil is promoted for treating coughs and colds, reducing pain, improving mental function, and reducing stress.
Can breathing in essential oils be harmful?
“In fact, breathing in the particles released by the oils may actually trigger airway inflammation and asthma symptoms,” she says. “The strong odors emitted by essential oils may contain volatile organic compounds, or VOCs. VOCs are chemical gases that worsen air quality and can irritate the lungs.”
Is peppermint oil good for colds?
Peppermint oil is used as a natural decongestant and fever-reducer. It contains menthol, an ingredient found in topical rubs that helps relieve congestion. A 2003 in vitro study demonstrated the viral activity of peppermint oil. Menthol is also used in many cough drops to help soothe sore throats and quiet coughs.
What essential oil is good for stuffy nose?
Some essential oils, including eucalyptus and peppermint oils, may help open the airways and ease congestion. Essential oils are a popular natural treatment. People use them to relieve sinus congestion, unblock a stuffed nose, and promote sinus drainage. Eucalyptus and peppermint oils show particular promise.
Where do I put peppermint oil for a headache?
Dab a couple drops of your oil mixture onto your fingers and massage it onto your temples, the back of your neck, your shoulders, and your chest area. Tension headaches are often caused by muscle contractions in this part of your body.
What oils are good for sinuses?
The Nine Best Essential Oils for Sinus Infections & Congestion
- Peppermint Oil (Mentha piperita)
- Eucalyptus Oil (Eucalyptus globulus, Eucalyptus radiata)
- Tea Tree Oil (Melaleuca alternifolia)
- Lavender Oil (Lavandula Angustifolia)
- Rosemary Oil (Rosmarinus officinalis)
- Lemon Oil (Citrus Limonum)
Does blowing nose make congestion worse?
But in a new study, they have found that doing so may actually make a cold worse, because the blow propels mucus into the nasal sinuses. Blowing one’s nose creates a significant amount of pressure, according to Jack M.
How much peppermint oil is safe?
Dosage. The usual dose of peppermint oil for adults and children aged 12 and over is 1 capsule, taken 3 times a day until your symptoms get better. You can increase this to 2 capsules, taken 3 times a day, if 1 capsule has not helped your symptoms. Do not take it for longer than 2 weeks unless prescribed by a doctor.
Is it safe to put olive oil in your nose?
Olive oil can also moisturize and hydrate your nose and reduce nasal dryness. It can also remove your crusts. It also relieves irritation and discomfort by using olive oil on dry nose. You can also use it with a dropper bottle or you can soak cotton in olive oil and then pour a few drops on your nose.