Congestion Be Gone
This past week in my blog I posted about my ash tree and how it's dumping ash everywhere.
This ash, along with the high pollen count of our area already, is really challenging me and my hubby but thankfully I have a few tools in my tool belt to use!
The combination of Eucalyptus essential oil and Marjoram essential oil, applied with a carrier oil (pictured here, fractionated coconut oil) to the chest and neck area has been magical in loosening things up and providing seasonal relief.
As an extra shot, at night I add Breathe Respiratory Blend which is a blend of Laurel Leaf, Peppermint, Eucalyptus, Melaleuca, Lemon, Ravensara and Cardamom essential oils. As this blend can be irritating to sensitive skin, proper dilution is important.
How do I do it? First, I open all the oil bottles I'm going to use. I put a couple of drops of the carrier oil into the palm of my hand that I've formed into a little cup. To that I add a couple drops each of the Eucalyptus and Marjoram (and Breathe or a similar respiratory blend if desired) and then I rub my hands lightly together so I have this mixture on both hands.
I then apply to each side of the neck (front and sides) and on chest area. Once applied, I also cup my hands over my nose and inhale deeply getting that added benefit of the respiratory blend if I used that.
Essential oils typically absorb into the skin within a minute or so. What is often still seen, or felt on the skin, is the carrier oil. This is why I choose the fractionated coconut oil as it is light, odorless and leaves the skin soft. It does absorb into the skin as well.
When I just want the respiratory blend, I do the same thing with the carrier oil and then a few drops of the blend. Very helpful to open things up respiratory-wise for me.
If it's been really challenging, I'm doing this morning and night. On the weekends, I will even apply mid-day depending on my needs.
Eucalyptus' top use includes respiratory ailments (as well as muscle aches/pains and inflammation.) Marjoram has been used historically for respiratory congestion (as well as muscle spasms, stiff joints and bruising.) The two combined pack a power punch for sure in this season.