Essential Oils and the Science of Immune Support

The essential oils industry is skyrocketing, recently valued at $3.4 billion USD and expected to grow every year by a whopping 9%. It’s clear that the world is craving the natural benefits of essential oils, and these oils’ health benefits are far reaching. Not only can essential oils boost your wellness via aromatherapy, but some oils may actually provide immune support!

Essential Oils You Can Take for Immune Support

Not all oils offer proven, well-researched benefits in terms of their oral use. However, a few key studies have highlighted the antiviral, immune-boosting benefits of several specific oils. The oils and extracts from ginger is one of the most well-documented essential oils when it comes to immunity. For instance, human and animal trials have found it effective against avian influenza and other noroviruses. Meanwhile, the oils from oregano have been used for centuries as an antiviral remedy thanks to its high amounts of a substance called carvacrol, which has been found to be effective against diseases like herpes and other human diseases. Other essential oils that may enhance immunity include:

• Lemon
• Eucalyptus
• Peppermint
• Palmarosa

Secondary Immune Support Through Sleep Support and Reduction of Stress

Not getting enough sleep is one of the worst things for your immune system, warns researchers. Lack of sleep reduces your ability to produce new immune cells, affects the metabolism of various enzymes essential for proper immune functioning, and may even slow down the immune response against disease and infection. A review of more than a dozen different scientific studies found that when used in aromatherapy, many essential oils and especially lavender were very effective in combating poor sleep, reducing insomnia, and improving overall sleep quality. Other oils that may improve sleep, and thus strengthen your immune system, include:

• Frankincense
• Cedarwood
• Ylang ylang
• Marjoram
• Chamomile

Meanwhile, chronic stress is one of the most widespread disease triggers in North America. And regular stress leads to a reduced immune response, higher levels of cortisol (a stress hormone with wide-reaching negative effects) and poor mental health. Once again, lavender essential oil (used either topically on your skin, or in aromatherapy) may help relieve stress and balance your mental health.

A Cleaner Home for Improved Immune Support

Many common germs and viruses can live on common surfaces, and in the air, for hours or even days. Minimize your risks, and reduce the burden on your immune system, by purifying the air and sanitizing your home. Tea tree oil is one of the most common natural sanitizing oils available. Researchers have found it to successfully inhibit bacteria growth, even when compared to standard industrial cleaners. Clove oil is also popular for both cleaning hard surfaces in your home, or placed in a diffuser to help purify and clean the air (rosemary essential oil and cinnamon essential oil may additionally assist with purifying your air).

Ways to Use Essential Oils

Talk to your naturopathic doctor or other medical professionals before using oils for immune support. While essential oils are natural, that doesn't mean they're harmless. In fact, many have powerful and effective medicinal effects. Some individuals, such as pregnant women, should discuss the use of essential oils before giving them a try. Follow the instructions and guidelines that came with the oil product you’ve purchased. Some of the most common ways of incorporating these oils into your lifestyle include:

• Using a diffuser for aromatherapy benefits and purifying or cleaning the air in your home
• Added the essential oils to a hot bath for aromatherapy and topical purposes
• Using oils dabbed onto a towel for either cold or hot topical compresses
• Massaging essential oils

If natural support for your immune system is something that’s important for you, don’t forget the role of nutrition on a cellular level. By supporting your immune system from the inside out, you ensure you get the most out of any external treatments, including essential oils. Talk to your doctor about BioPro-Plus 500. It contains bio-identical thymic proteins, which are proteins your body needs for a strong and effective immune system. Thymic proteins are required by your body’s “killer cells” to find and identify invading pathogens. It’s the ideal complement to other natural health modalities, including essential oils!