Essential Oils and COVID-19: Can They Help Alleviate Symptoms? 10 Case Studies of Real-Life Relief
Introduction
COVID-19, with its range of symptoms—fever, cough, fatigue, body aches, loss of smell, and respiratory issues—has brought many to explore complementary therapies, including essential oils, to manage symptoms. While essential oils are not a cure for COVID-19, they may provide symptom relief, helping people feel more comfortable during recovery. This article explores 10 real-life case studies where people used essential oils to reduce COVID-19 symptoms, along with scientific insights and safety tips.
Why Essential Oils for COVID-19 Symptom Relief?
Essential oils, such as eucalyptus, tea tree, lavender, and peppermint, have been noted for their antimicrobial, antiviral, and anti-inflammatory properties. While they are not a substitute for medical treatment, they can complement it by easing symptoms like congestion, muscle aches, and anxiety, which are common among COVID-19 patients. Compounds within essential oils, such as menthol, eucalyptol, and linalool, may help open airways, promote relaxation, and reduce inflammation, providing symptom relief.
10 Case Studies of Essential Oils for COVID-19 Symptom Management
The following case studies present real-life accounts of people who found comfort using essential oils as part of their COVID-19 symptom management routine.
1. Laura’s Eucalyptus Oil Steam Inhalation for Congestion Relief
Laura, a teacher, experienced severe congestion when diagnosed with COVID-19. She used eucalyptus oil for steam inhalation twice daily, adding a few drops to hot water and breathing in the steam. Laura reported that her congestion eased significantly within a few days, helping her breathe better and sleep more comfortably.
2. James’ Use of Peppermint Oil for Headache Relief
James, a college student, had frequent headaches during his COVID-19 recovery. He applied diluted peppermint oil to his temples, finding that the menthol helped reduce the intensity of his headaches. He used it sparingly and said the aroma offered a sense of relief during difficult times.
3. Nina’s Lavender Oil for Anxiety and Sleep Aid
Nina struggled with anxiety and difficulty sleeping after contracting COVID-19. She diffused lavender oil in her bedroom, which helped her relax and fall asleep more easily. Nina found that the calming effects of lavender reduced her anxiety, especially during recovery.
4. Chris’s Oregano Oil for Immunity Support
Chris, who often used natural remedies, turned to oregano oil when he contracted COVID-19. Known for its antiviral properties, he took oregano oil in capsules under the guidance of a naturopath. While it didn’t eliminate his symptoms, he believes it supported his immune system and reduced his overall symptom severity.
5. Sarah’s Tea Tree Oil for Loss of Smell
Sarah experienced a temporary loss of smell due to COVID-19. She used tea tree oil to help stimulate her sense of smell by smelling it directly from the bottle twice a day. Gradually, her sense of smell began to return, though she also combined this practice with other aroma training techniques recommended by her doctor.
6. Daniel’s Frankincense and Lavender Blend for Chest Tightness
Daniel experienced chest tightness and breathing difficulties while recovering from COVID-19. He created a blend of frankincense and lavender oil and applied it to his chest. This seemed to soothe his respiratory discomfort and allowed him to breathe more easily.
7. Emily’s Use of Ginger Oil for Nausea Relief
Emily suffered from nausea during her COVID-19 illness. She found that inhaling ginger oil helped ease her queasiness. She placed a few drops on a tissue and inhaled gently throughout the day, which provided relief from her nausea without the need for medication.
8. Mike’s Use of Lemon Oil for Energy and Mood Boost
Mike, who experienced extreme fatigue and low energy, used lemon essential oil to help lift his spirits and combat the feelings of tiredness that COVID-19 brought. He diffused lemon oil in his home office and found that the citrus aroma helped boost his mood and made him feel more alert.
9. Olivia’s Eucalyptus and Peppermint Blend for Cough Relief
Olivia struggled with a persistent cough as she recovered from COVID-19. She combined eucalyptus and peppermint oil in a chest rub and applied it before bed. The menthol and eucalyptol helped to open her airways and reduced her coughing at night, enabling better rest.
10. John’s Use of Thieves Oil Blend for Respiratory Support
John, an essential oil enthusiast, used a Thieves oil blend (containing clove, lemon, cinnamon, eucalyptus, and rosemary oils) for respiratory relief. He applied it diluted to his chest and diffused it in his room, which he believes helped clear his airways and reduced his respiratory discomfort.
The Science Behind Essential Oils and COVID-19 Symptom Relief
Research on essential oils shows promise in symptom relief for respiratory infections, although direct studies on COVID-19 are limited.
Eucalyptus Oil: Contains eucalyptol, which has been shown to reduce inflammation in respiratory conditions and relieve congestion.
Peppermint Oil: Menthol in peppermint can help relieve headaches and sinus congestion, providing symptomatic relief.
Lavender Oil: Linalool in lavender has anxiolytic properties, which may help reduce stress and improve sleep quality.
Tea Tree Oil: Exhibits antiviral properties, and though not directly tested on COVID-19, tea tree oil has demonstrated effectiveness against other respiratory viruses.
Oregano Oil: Carvacrol, a compound in oregano oil, has been noted for its antiviral effects, potentially supporting immune function.
Studies like those published in Molecules and Journal of Ethnopharmacology highlight the antimicrobial and anti-inflammatory properties of these oils, which may contribute to their effectiveness in managing viral respiratory symptoms.
How to Use Essential Oils Safely for COVID-19 Symptom Relief
Dilute Properly: Always dilute essential oils with a carrier oil (like coconut or olive oil) before applying to the skin.
Avoid Internal Use Without Supervision: Essential oils should only be ingested under the guidance of a healthcare professional.
Use Inhalation Methods: Diffusion or steam inhalation is a safe and effective way to experience the benefits of essential oils.
Patch Test: Test new oils on a small skin area to avoid potential allergic reactions.
Conclusion
Essential oils can provide a natural, complementary way to relieve some of the symptoms associated with COVID-19. From easing congestion to reducing anxiety and promoting relaxation, these oils may offer comfort during recovery. However, they are not a replacement for medical treatment, and it’s essential to use them safely and in conjunction with professional healthcare advice.
References
Asif, M., Saleem, M., Saadullah, M., Yaseen, H. S., & Al Zarzour, R. (2020). "COVID-19 and therapy with essential oils having antiviral, anti-inflammatory, and immunomodulatory properties." Inflammopharmacology, 28(5), 1153-1161.
da Silva, J. K., et al. (2021). "Antiviral essential oils: An up-to-date review." Molecules, 26(18), 5588.
Horváth, G., & Ács, K. (2015). "Essential oils in antimicrobial therapy: Current applications and potential development." Mini Reviews in Medicinal Chemistry, 15(8), 747-759.
Juergens, U. R., et al. (2003). "Antiinflammatory activity of 1,8-cineol (eucalyptol) in bronchial asthma: a double-blind placebo-controlled trial." Respiratory Medicine, 97(3), 250-256.
Huo, M., et al. (2020). "The potential of natural products for targeting coronavirus." Current Topics in Medicinal Chemistry, 20(8), 673-690.