Coughs are the most common reason people seek advice from their doctor, usually caused by an infection from a virus or bacteria.
Most cases it is from an infection in the upper airways or in more serious cases a chest infection. If it’s an upper airways infection, it might not come with many other symptoms. Colds are viral so there is no point in using antibiotics to treat one.
Coughs last approximately 2-3 weeks. If they last longer seek out advice from a medical practitioner.
Most coughs are caused by a cold or flu.
Other causes include:
- smoking
- heartburn (acid reflux)
- allergies – for example, hay fever
- infections like bronchitis
- mucus dripping down the throat from the back of the nose
It is so important for us to have means and recipes to deal with our coughs, especially in spring when seasonal allergies, colds and flus prevail.
Here is an essential oil formulation to treat a dry cough:
Dry Cough formulation:
•8 drops Roman chamomile essential oil
•8 drops Lemon essential oil
•1oz. carrier oil (Almond or Apricot)
•1oz. amber bottle
Place essential oils and carrier oil in an amber bottle. Roll the bottle between your hands to thoroughly mix the ingredients. Apply to chest, back, and corresponding reflex points on the hands and feet 3 times daily.
For Children’s formulations see my book, Common Scents, A Practical Guide to Aromatherapy.
Roman chamomile (Ormenis nobilis), has a strong balsamic aroma and contains a majority of esters therefore it is very soft and soothing. Due to its anti-inflammatory and analgesic properties it is perfect for soothing the irritation of the respiratory tract.
Lemon (Citrus limonum) is a beautiful antiseptic, antibacterial and antiviral which stimulates the white blood cells. We all know the traditional cure to take lemon juice and honey in hot water, well Lemon essential oil is jam-packed with antiseptic properties that helps break up mucous and heal sore throats.
Shop Nature Sunshine’s Essential Oils HERE.
Violet syrup:
Violets (Viola spp.) have been used all around the world to treat coughs! In fact, one double-blind randomized clinical trial with children aged 2 to 12 years found that violet syrup could help the coughs of children with intermittent asthma (Qasemzadeh, et al., 2015).
Violets love to grow in moist and shady areas. When you come to a patch where they grow, as you spend time close to the ground picking them so many more will appear before your eyes, they appear to be almost shy. They contain a lot of mucilages so are very emollient and soothing for dryness and irritation. You can take violets in an infusion, as a syrup, or infused honey. Take a spoonful to help heal your sore throat, dry cough, cold and bring movement to your lymphatic system!
Syrups are a great way to treat children’s coughs also, as they are sweet, tasty plus this one is colourful!
Learn how to make violet syrup on my Youtube Channel.
Want to learn more recipes to treat your viral symptoms?
Join me Live in New Jersey or Online to learn how to make a special cough syrup with essential oils and hydrosols and many other recipes! This is an exceptional hands-on experience for aromatherapy application you don’t want to miss.
References:
Qasemzadeh, et al. The Effect of Viola odorata Flower Syrup on the Cough of Children With Asthma: A Double-Blind, Randomized Controlled Trial. Journal of Evidence-Based Complementary & Alternative Medicine. 2015;20(4):287-291. doi: 10.1177/2156587215584862
