Top 10 Essential Oils For Immune System Support

The Immune System

The immune system is made up of a complex network of cells, tissues, and organs that work together to protect the body from bacteria, viruses, and other harmful substances. We are all born with this natural defense and immunity to a variety of pathogens. 

The body’s first line of defense is the skin and mucous membranes. Common cold and flu cases have seasonal patterns. Although there isn’t a consensus on why this occurs, one theory is that cold air cools the nasal passage and slows down our body’s ability to clear mucus. This may allow viruses and bacteria to linger in the respiratory tract.

Winter conditions may also cause dry skin, which can cause small cracks and an increase in inflammatory cytokine production in the body. This combined with the lack of sunshine and vitamin D during winter months may also lower immune response, making us more susceptible to illness.

Once a pathogen makes it into the bloodstream, the body launches a powerful immune response, and many symptoms, including swollen glands, fever, cough, runny nose, aches, chills, and many more. 

While most colds and cases of flu clear up on their own there are some all-natural ways to support the body’s natural defenses to hopefully avoid the whole mess in the first place! 

If you’ve been following me a while, you’ll know I’m all about essential oils! They are considered one of the oldest and most potent forms of plant medicine. Essential oils are naturally occurring compounds found in different parts of a plant. Massive amounts of seeds, stems, leaves, flowers, barks or roots are steam distilled, cold-pressed, or solvent extracted to produce one bottle of essential oil. Just like different plants have different properties, so do their essential oils. 

To learn more, watch my free class essential oils 101 >>

Always use your essential oils with caution, as they are extremely potent. One to two drops per sitting is usually plenty! Always check the labels of your essential oils thoroughly before use. Essential oils have blood-thinning properties, and should not be used by those with a compromised liver, or with bleeding disorders. 

Below are a few ways I like to use essential oils for immune support. 

Topical use

Applying essential oils topically is a powerful way to support the immune system. Essential oils are readily absorbed into the bloodstream, and keeping the skin hydrated, and exfoliated with these recipes below!

  • Massage oil - 4 oz fractionated coconut oil, 30 to 40 drops of essential oils. Store in an airtight container at room temperature away from direct sunlight. Apply liberally to the body each night, and as needed for sore muscles and dry skin. 

  • Breathe Easy chest rub - 2 tbsp cocoa butter, 2 tbsp unrefined coconut oil, 5 drops each of peppermint, eucalyptus, and lavender essential oils. Combine ingredients and mix well, store in an airtight container in cool temperature away from direct sunlight or fridge.

  • Detoxifying Mask - 1 tbsp bentonite clay, 1 tbsp fractionated coconut oil, 2 to 5 drops of essential oils. Mix well, and apply to clean moist skin. Leave on for 10 to 20 minutes, wash off gently with warm water and a washcloth. 

Aromatic use 

Inhaling the aroma of essential oil can promote clear open airways to support the body’s most powerful detoxification organ, the lungs. In addition to providing more oxygen to the cells, full abdominal breathing utilizes the diaphragm and stimulates all the digestive organs. I love to enjoy the aromatic benefits of essential oils with the methods described below.

  • Diffuser: Fill the room with the therapeutic aroma pf essential oils. Follow your diffuser’s instructions to fill with water and add 5 to 10 drops of essential oils. 

  • Steam cup: Create aromatic steam with a 4 to 8 oz of hot water, and add 2 to 5 drops of essential oil. Breathe the aroma for 5 to 10 minutes.

  • Hand diffuser: Add one drop of carrier oil, and one drop of your favorite essential oil to the palms of your hands, and rub together. Cup hands over the nose, and mouth, being careful to avoid the eyes. Inhale the aroma, breathing in through the nose, and out through the mouth. Repeat for 1 to 3 minutes.

Internal use

Consuming essential oils should only be done with caution, as essential oils are extremely potent. One to two drops per sitting is usually plenty! Not all plants are safe to ingest, and neither are their essential oils. Essential oils can counteract with some medications. 

Never apply or ingest any essential oil without checking the labels thoroughly. Be aware that the market for essential oils is largely unregulated. Even products labeled as 100% pure have been found to contain harsh solvents and fillers. Do your research before ingesting to be sure your essential oils are created in an ethical, sustainable, and organic way. I always dilute my essential oil with coconut, olive oil, or butter when taking it internally.  

  • Tea - Add one drop of edible essential oil into your favorite tea with a splash of coconut milk, and honey to taste. (Avoid “hot” oils such as oregano, ginger, and cinnamon)

  • Capsules - Add one drop of edible essential oil into a gelatin or veggie capsule and fill with olive oil. Take with a full glass of water near a meal. 

  • Cooking - Add one drop of edible essential oil into 2 tbsp minimum of cooking oil, butter or marinade.

Top 10 Essential oils for immune system support

Thyme

Thyme (Thymus vulgaris) is a powerful essential oil with incredible antibacterial, antiviral, anti-fungal, and antioxidant properties.

This essential oil was prized by ancient Egyptians for ailments including digestive complaints, respiratory problems, infections, and embalming.

Thyme has an energizing aroma and is believed to lift moods and aid concentration.

Cinnamon

Cinnamon (Cinnamomum zeylanicum) is one of the most ancient spices and essential oils used in traditional Chinese medicine. The essential oils are derived through steam distillation of the cinnamon leaf or cinnamon bark. Studies have backed up historical use by showing cinnamon contains antimicrobial, antiviral, antifungal, antiseptic, and immune stimulating properties.

It has a spicy and warming aroma with stimulating effects. You won’t find me during the winter months without cinnamon! I find this one will keep me awake if I use it too close to bedtime. This is considered a “hot oil” and may burn the mucous membranes, and irritate skin. Use with caution and dilution, no safe for children under 6.

Lavender

Lavender (Lavandula angustifolia) has been referred to as the universal calming oil. It has been used for centuries for a wide variety of physical and emotional ailments. Lavender essential oils is created by steam-distilling the flowering lavender plant.

Science has backed up traditional uses by showing lavender contains analgesic, anti-fungal, antimicrobial, antiviral, anti-inflammatory, anti-histamine, and sedative properties. It has a floral and fresh aroma that promotes a sense of well-being and relaxing effects. I love to diffuse this one and apply to the chest before bed.

Oregano

Oregano (Origanum vulga) essential oil has impressive antimicrobial effects. In vitro studies have shown it effectively kills fungus, parasites (such as malaria), viruses, and even multi-type drug resistant bacteria. Used aromatically it has an herbal medicinal scent.

Oregano oil is considered a “hot” oil, and should be used with caution and dilution. This oil is very strong, use only with dilution. I love to add a drop or two into salad dressings, marinades, and other recipes when seasonal threats are high.

Peppermint

Peppermint (Mentha piperita) essential oil has been cultivated around the world for its medicinal properties, and invigorating aroma and flavor. It is very supportive to both the digestive and respiratory systems. It has been used traditionally to soothe coughs, freshen breath, and relieve digestive difficulties.

Peppermint essential oil has been shown to have powerful antibacterial, antiviral, anti-fungal, and bio-film dissolving effects. Peppermint essential oil is the most commonly used essential oil on earth. It has GRAS status, and is considered safe for topical, aromatic, and internal use. Can cause skin sensitivity, dilute for topical use, and avoid mucus membranes. Not recommended for children under 6 years old.

Ginger

Ginger (Zingiber officinale) essential oil is used medicinally throughout the world. Traditionally it has been recommended for many illnesses, digestive issues, and detoxification support. Studies have backed up anecdotal evidence by showing ginger essential oil contains antibacterial, antiviral, antiseptic, analgesic, and diuretic properties. Aromatically ginger essential oil has an invigorating earthy scent and it’s believed to promote a sense of empowerment. I love to add a drop of ginger essential oil to my baking recipes and diffuser when seasonal threats are high.

Animal studies show incredible antioxidant activity, and an increase in glutathione production. It has GRAS status, and is considered safe for topical, aromatic, and internal use. Can cause skin sensitivity, dilute for topical use, and avoid mucus membranes. Not recommended for children under 6 years old

Eucalyptus

Eucalyptus (Eucalyptus radiata) essential oil is prized for its medicinal aroma and beneficial effects on the respiratory tract. Eucalyptus leaves were used traditionally to wrap wounds, treat inflammation, and fight infections. Aromatically this essential oil is invigorating and fresh, it promotes clear open airways. I always diffuse eucalyptus or add to a steam cup at first sign of respiratory or sinus congestion.

Eucalyptus has GRAS status, and is considered safe for topical, aromatic, and internal use for adults. Not recommended for children under 10 years old in any amount. Small amounts can be taken internally by adults, no more than 600 mg per day recommended. Can cause skin sensitivity, dilute for topical use, and avoid mucus membranes.

Lemon

Lemon (Citrus limon) essential oil is uplifting and cleansing to the mind and body. It has been used for centuries to aid detoxification and support both the digestive, and immune systems. Animal studies have shown incredible antioxidant and radical scavenging activity. Aromatically this oil is cleansing and may promote a sense of clarity and purification. I love to add a drop of lemon essential oil to my evening tea.

It has GRAS status, unadulterated lemon oil is safe for topical, aromatic, and internal use. It may cause skin sensitivity, dilute for topical use. Lemon oil causes phototoxicity, avoid direct sunlight for 12 hours after use. Not recommended for children under 6 years old

Lemongrass

Lemongrass (Cymbopogon flexuosus) essential oil has been used for its flavor and medicinal effects for centuries. Traditionally it has been recommended to ease muscle and joint pain, support the immune system, and promote detoxification.

Animal and in vitro studies have shown lemongrass oil has good cytotoxic activity, and induced glutathione activity. It has GRAS status and is safe for topical, aromatic, and internal use. I love to add lemongrass essential oil to my soups, stews, and curry for immune support.

This oil may cause skin sensitization with extended, always dilute for topical use. Lemongrass oil causes phototoxicity, so avoid direct sunlight for 12 hours after use. Lemongrass oil may interact with anti-diabetic medication and other drugs metabolized by the CYP2B6 gene. Not recommended for children under 6 years old

Tea Tree

Tea Tree (Melaleuca alternifolia) essential oil is prized worldwide for its immune stimulating properties. Traditionally tea tree essential oil has been used to heal cuts, wounds, burns, and skin infections. It can also be used to repel insects, and ease digestive issues.

Studies have shown that tea tree essential oil contains powerful antibacterial, anti-fungal, anti-infectious, antiseptic, antiviral, anti-parasitic, decongestant, immune stimulant, digestive, insecticidal, neuro-tonic, and stimulating properties.

Tea tree essential oil has GRAS status, and is generally regarded as safe for topical, aromatic, and internal use. Use with dilution and caution on children ages 6 and over, not recommended for children under 6 years old. No known contraindications, or hazards.

Disclaimer: I am not a medical doctor, and this work should not be taken in lieu of medical advice. This work is reflective of my views, and are not reflective of the views of any affiliated brands or products mentioned. This work has not been reviewed by the CDC or FDA. I do not claim to diagnose, treat, or cure any illness. This work is for educational purposes, whatever the reader decides to do with this information is up to them. The author takes no responsibility for any action taken from the information shared here, now, or in the future.

References

I hope you found this information helpful!

For more information on Lyme disease, prevention, and holistic treatment options check out my new book, The Lyme Ease Survival Guidebook designed to separate the facts from fiction to educate and empower Lyme patients.

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Jenn Hylaimmune support, essential oils, seasonal supportComment