Essential Oils for Immune Support

November 3, 2011

Written by Traci

Essential Oils for Immune Support

With Cold & Flu season knocking on the door, I thought it was a good time to share essential oils that support our immune systems.  There are three chemical components that come to mind for immune support.  Linalol,  Terpinen 4-ol and Limonene.  All of these encourage white blood cell growth. The picture here is of Thyme chemotype linalol.

Essential Oils High in Linalol:

• Lavender
• Thyme ~ chemotype linalol
• Sweet Basil

Essential Oils High in Limonene:

• Citrus oils in general are high in Limonene
• Orange & Tangerine are two of the highest with 90% or more

Essential Oils High in Terpinen 4-ol

• Tea Tree

We have a Support Essential Oil Blend with Basil, Thyme, Lavender and Tea Tree.  A great way to use it or any of the essential oils above for immune support is to steam with them.  Get a soup or cereal bowl, add 1 drop essential oil and pour steaming water over it.  Put a towel over your head and steam for 2 to 5 minutes.

Immune Support Aromatherapy Recipe:

• 5 drops Tangerine Essential Oil
• 1 drop Basil Essential Oil
• 4 drops Lavender Essential Oil
• 1 ounce Jojoba Oil
• 1 ounce pump bottle

Add essential oil drops to container. Add jojoba oil. Cap and shake. Rub on your chest once or twice a day.

How do you support your immune system during the winter?  Have you ever used thyme or basil essential oils?