Natural Relief for Congestion
As seen on the Sonoran Living program.

A stuffy nose and head can be miserable to have, so here are a couple of natural remedies that are easy to do at home. These will help you breath a little better as well as reduce the possibility of the congestion turning into a bacterial infection. The essential oils used in this Steam Inhalation and Neck and Chest Rub have properties known for their ability to fight germs. The aroma of the essential oils is pleasant and not as sharp and medicinal as the menthol-smelling ointments on the market. Never use fragrances in place of essential oils. You can find essential oils in natural food/health stores.

Steam Inhalation for Congestion

Ingredients:

Large ceramic or glass bowl
Large Towel (a bath sheet works great if you have one)
Big wooden spoon
5-6 cups steaming hot water
Essential Oils – approx. 20 drops in total

6 drops	Lavendar
6 drops	Eucalyptus
4 drops	Cedarwood
4 drops	Wintergreen

Box of tissues (optional)

Method:
Have all the items needed together on a table or counter where you can comfortably sit for 5 – 7 minutes. Put the drops of essential oil into the large bowl and then pour the hot water into the bowl. Stir the water with the essential oils a couple of turns and leave the spoon in the bowl so that you can stir it occasionally to release more steam as you are breathing. Hold head about 5-8 inches over the bowl and drape the towel over to cover, or "tent" your head so that the steam stays in. CLOSE YOUR EYES!!!! The essential oils can make your eyes tear and sting, so keep them closed.

Slowly and deeply inhale through your nose and mouth. I know this sounds a little yucky, but you can just allow the mucus to drain freely into the bowl. (This is not something you would want to do on a first date!) If that feels uncomfortable to do, have the box of tissues under the "tent" and blow into the tissues as needed. Try to stay under the tent and inhaling for at least 5 minutes. When finished, pat your face and neck dry with towel and follow with the following Neck and Chest Rub. Keep your neck and chest area covered and warm. This would be a perfect time to sit down for a cup of hot tea! You may do this several times a day if you wish.

CAUTION: If pregnant, use low dilutions and stick with Lavender, Lemon, Tea Tree or Sandalwood. Perhaps a small amount of Rosemary, but use all essential oils with care. There are many resources to reference on the internet and in books. It is a prudent practice to always check at least 3-5 sources for cross reference, and even more if you find contradictions in the sources’ facts.

You may also check out Mommy’s Chest and Neck Rub and Sore Throat Spray from a previous show.

Neck and Chest Rub for Congestion

Ingredients:

2 ounces of unscented massage oil, almond oil or lotion (massage and almond oils may be found in a natural food/health store – use olive oil in a pinch)
Small glass jar with lid
Label
Essential Oils – approx. 65-75 drops in total

15-20 drops	Lavendar
30-35 drops	Eucalyptus
8-10 drops	Cedarwood
8-10 drops	Wintergreen

Popsicle stick or wooden spoon if using lotion

Method:
Put ingredients into jar and shake well. If using lotion, you will need to stir well with a popsicle stick or spoon. Label jar.

IDEA: You can also make small travel-size containers that will travel in your purse or pocket for easy use throughout the day.

NOTE: Children’s skin is more tender than adults, so if using this rub on children, reduce the essential oils by 1/3 – 1/2 , or mix this one with a little extra oil/lotion when applying on the child.

To Use:
Apply to upper chest, neck and upper back area. Sometimes it feels good to put a little dab on your temples, but you must be careful to not get it into your eyes. Inhale the essential oils from your hands after the application for a little extra benefit! Use several times a day. Especially good after a head steam or a hot bath/shower.

Variations:
Some other essential oils that would be good alternatives are: Basil, Rosemary, Pine, Tea Tree, Lemon and Sandalwood. You could even add a sprig of rosemary or lavender to your hot steaming water inhalation. The essential oils would also be good to take a hot bath with. Use 15 – 25 total drops of essential oils per bath (my favorite blends always include Eucalyptus and Lavender) and be sure to keep the door closed so that the steam will stay in the bathroom for you to inhale. Ahhhh, you will feel great after this bath. After the bath, dress warmly, put the Chest and Neck Rub on and go to bed.

Remember to drink lots of fresh water. Add a little lemon and fresh ginger for extra benefit. Think happy thoughts and you’ll be better before you know it!

CAUTION: If pregnant, use low dilutions and stick with Lavender, Lemon, Tea Tree or Sandalwood. Perhaps a small amount of Rosemary, but use all essential oils with care. There are many resources to reference on the internet and in books. It is a prudent practice to always check at least 3-5 sources for cross reference, and even more if you find contradictions in the sources’ facts.

You may also check out Mommy’s Chest and Neck Rub and Sore Throat Spray from a previous show.