Using Aromatherapy to Manage Asthma

Asthma’s distinctive wheezing sound results from strained breathing through inflamed, constricted bronchial tubes. During an attack, the inability to fully exhale stale air due to swollen, mucus-filled bronchioles leads to difficulty inhaling fresh air, causing gasping and labored breathing.

Asthma is often triggered by food allergies, stress, or airborne allergens. These allergies prompt histamine production, which narrows airways and dilates blood vessels. This congestion is the lungs’ response to irritation, as they attempt to expel harmful substances.

While some aromatherapy guides caution against using essential oils for asthma due to potential fragrance sensitivity, careful application can yield positive outcomes. It’s crucial to avoid exacerbating symptoms, but aromatherapy can be beneficial when used appropriately.

The best time for aromatherapy is between attacks. Create a chest rub using decongestant and antihistamine oils like peppermint and ginger. German chamomile, rich in chamazulene, may inhibit histamine release. Frankincense, marjoram, and rose promote deep breathing and lung expansion. For bronchial spasms, use calming oils such as chamomile, lavender, rose, geranium, and marjoram.

For some asthma sufferers, a lavender steam treatment can be effective even during an attack. The steam helps clear airways, while lavender alleviates lung spasms, potentially stopping the attack or reducing its intensity. Additionally, lavender’s calming properties ease the anxiety that often accompanies breathing difficulties.

If steaming worsens breathing, opt for an aromatherapy diffuser or humidifier. For infants and young children, add a few drops of lavender essential oil to hot bathwater and hold the child over the steam. Alternatively, apply an aromatherapy massage oil to the feet for relief.

While essential oils alone cannot cure asthma, they can complement other treatments. Herbs that repair lung tissue and enhance breathing, combined with allergen avoidance, are essential. If stress is a trigger, aromatherapy methods like massage, relaxation exercises, and soothing baths can help manage stress levels.

Essential oils for asthma: chamomile, eucalyptus (avoid during attacks), frankincense (promotes deep breathing and lung expansion), geranium, ginger, lavender, marjoram, peppermint, rose

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ABOUT THE AUTHOR:

Kathi Keville is the director of the American Herb Association and editor of its Quarterly newsletter. With over 25 years of experience as a writer, photographer, consultant, and educator in aromatherapy and herbal medicine, she has authored several books, including *Aromatherapy: The Complete Guide to the Healing Art* and *Pocket Guide to Aromatherapy*, and contributed over 150 articles to publications like *New Age Journal*, *The Herb Companion*, and *New Herbal Remedies*.

This content is for informational purposes only and is not intended as medical advice. Neither the Editors of Consumer Guide (R), Publications International, Ltd., the author, nor the publisher assume responsibility for any outcomes resulting from treatments, procedures, exercises, dietary changes, actions, or applications of medication based on this information. This publication does not constitute medical practice, nor does it replace professional advice from your physician or healthcare provider. Always consult your healthcare provider before starting any treatment.