These 10 Essential Oils Will Shorten Your Cold Overnight

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When cold and flu season rolls around, you'll do anything to relieve your symptoms, or, if you're healthy, prevent yourself from getting sick. Some steps to ease that stuffy nose, sore throat, or cough include staying hydrated, packing on the vitamin C, and getting enough rest. To avoid getting sick in the first place, well, you've got to stay away from those around you who are sniffling (we think they'd understand your distance), wash your hands regularly, and eat the right foods to keep your immune system in check.

Another thing that can help combat colds? Essential oils. We know that aromatherapy can help relieve stress, aid in sleep, and soothe muscle aches, and some believe that these oils can also treat symptoms of the common cold. Studies have found that many essential oils contain antibacterial, anti-inflammatory properties.

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While essential oils shouldn't be the only thing you use when you're under the weather, they may be worth a try along with everything else you're doing to ward off sickness, like medication. And as always, check with your doctor or a healthcare professional if you have any questions or concerns. Like a lot of remedies, they're not one-size-fits-all, and you may have different reactions to them.

Now before you start rubbing random essential oils all over your body, you've got to take a few precautions. Most oils will have to be diluted with a carrier oil before using as they're very potent. And you could get very sick if you ingest some of them—so do your research and talk to your doctor if you are looking into that. After you've got the safety precautions sorted out and in mind, you start experimenting. Here are some that experts recommend:

1. Eucalyptus

2. Frankincense

3. Lemongrass

4. Oregano

5. Tea Tree Oil

6. Lemon

7. Peppermint

8. Clove

9. Rosemary

10. Lavender

Disclaimer

This article is provided for informational purposes only and is not intended to be used in the place of advice of your physician or other medical professionals. You should always consult with your doctor or healthcare provider first with any health-related questions.

Managing Editor

Sarah is lifestyle writer and editor with over 10 years of experience covering health and wellness, interior design, food, beauty, and tech. Born and raised in Los Angeles, she attended New York University and lived in New York for 12 years before returning to L.A. in 2019.

In addition to her work on THE/THIRTY and Who What Wear, she held editor roles at Apartment Therapy, Real Simple, House Beautiful, Elle Decor, and The Bump (sister site of The Knot).

She has a passion for health and wellness, but she especially loves writing about mental health. Her self-care routine consists of five things: a good workout, “me” time on the regular, an intriguing book/podcast/playlist to unwind after a long day, naps, and decorating her home.