Best Essential Oils for Post Nasal Drip
Drip, drip, drip… that tickle of phlegm down the back of your throat can be so bothersome. You probably know that it is absolutely normal and healthy for your body to produce mucus on a daily basis; it helps to keep things moist and rid bacteria. But when an illness or allergies arise, the extra mucus can be very uncomfortable.
The good news is that there are several natural remedies that may be able to help get rid of post nasal drip. And, as with so many other ailments, certain Essential Oils are ideal for tackling this issue as well. Read on to learn more about what Essential Oils are best for post nasal drip and how to use them.
What Exactly is Post Nasal Drip?
As previously mentioned, mucus production is part of every healthy body. Lubricating your throat, airways, nose, and digestive tract, it is important to help move out invaders like bacteria and viruses. When the production ramps up and gets thicker, it becomes more noticeable and often makes you feel like you constantly need to clear your throat. This also causes problems like sore or scratchy throat, cough, or even sinus infections. The cause of this is usually a cold or flu, allergies, food triggers, pregnancy, sinusitis, or even a deviated septum.
Can you use Essential Oils for Post Nasal Drip?
You sure can! In addition to other simple remedies that may help like drinking hot tea, using over the counter decongestants, and doing a nasal rinse, Essential Oils can be very helpful in reducing the symptoms of post nasal drip. Many oils are natural decongestants, anti-inflammatory, and/or soothing which aids in providing relief.
Studies show that Essential Oils containing 1,8-cineole can effectively reduce mucus production. This 2015 abstract shows how it helps with rhinosinusitis, while this review showcases how it can control mucus in the airways.
So, What are the Best Essential Oils for Post Nasal Drip?
This oil is our #1 pick because of the amount of 1,8-cineole (about 80%) it contains. Eucalyptus is ideal for clearing airways, decreasing mucus, and calming inflammation. Additionally, this medicinal oil is a powerful antiviral that can help to fight any impending infection.
Eucalyptus Blue and Eucalyptus Radiata are great choices as well.
Another Essential Oil with high 1,8-cineole content, Rosemary helps to break up mucus and ease inflammation in the areas tight with congestion. This herbal oil can also fight against viral infections and has even shown in preliminary studies to be effective protection when facing off with cytokine viruses.
If your post nasal drip has caused a sore throat as well, check out this blog on what Essential Oils to use.
The cooling feeling that Peppermint provides comes from its menthol content.This fresh, minty sensation can be helpful for soothing nasal passages when battling excess mucus. Peppermint really promotes relief from congestion which often comes with post nasal drip. For more information, check out this article on Essential Oils for congestion.
This multifaceted Essential Oil combats viruses, infections, and bacteria. This is important when dealing with post nasal drip to ensure that it doesn’t turn into something more. We also love that Tea Tree helps to reduce swelling in nasal passages and throat caused by post nasal drip, making it an ideal choice for tackling a cold or flu.
The inflammation in the respiratory areas, and especially the nose is what causes most of the discomfort of post nasal drip. Addressing the swelling can provide a lot of relief, so this is where Lavender comes in. Not only can this soft floral oil aid in bringing you rest when you are not feeling well, but it can also lessen your body’s inflammatory response. Try using Lavender Essential Oil in an evening bath to encourage relaxation.
Additionally, if your post nasal drip is part of illness that is also causing headaches, it could be helpful to check out the best Essential Oils for that as well.
This spicy, herbal oil boasts strong antiviral and antioxidant properties making it a good choice for fending off unwanted infections that often come from post nasal drip. Carvacrol, the main component in Oregano Essential Oil, inhibits the growth of bacteria which can reduce the severity of your illness and boost the immune system.
This synergistic blend is a perfect choice for post nasal drip because it contains many of the beneficial Essential Oils on this list. Breathe Air helps to clear airways and provide smoother, easier breathing. The addition of Lemon and Laurel Essential Oils also brings an uplifting effect to those who smell it.
How to use Essential Oils for Post Nasal Drip
Now that you know the best Essential Oils to use for post nasal drip, let’s discuss the best way to use them. Inhalation has shown to be the most effective way to utilize the oils to your benefit, but there are many ways to do this. Here are a few ways to take advantage of aromatherapy for post nasal drip:
- Fill your space with your chosen Essential Oils using a diffuser like the REVIVE Champagne Ultrasonic Diffuser.
- Take a few deep breaths from an Essential Oil inhaler like REVIVE’s Aromatherapy Personal Inhalers.
- Inhale directly from the bottle of the Essential Oil or blend you want to use.
- Take a warm bath or shower with the Essential Oils that you have picked from this list.
- Add a few drops of the Essential Oil to a bowl of hot water and inhale the steam.
- Put a drop or two onto a cotton ball and inhale as needed.
Another way to use Essential Oils for post nasal drip is topical application. As with any instance where you use your oils on your skin, we recommend diluting them first with a carrier oil like Fractionated Coconut Oil or Golden Jojoba Oil. Create your own ready to use roller for post nasal drip with REVIVE’s Roll-on Bottles.
*Just remember when applying Essential Oils to the face, be very careful to not get it in or near your eyes. We advise only a 1% dilution in this situation.
- Apply to the outside of your throat and on your chest
- Put a small amount on the bridge of your nose
- Roll onto temples for tension or headache
Looking for the Best Essential Oils for Post Nasal Drip?
With all of this information on what Essential Oils to use for post nasal drip and how to use them, you are ready to get started feeling some relief. Look no further than REVIVE!
Backed by third party testing from the most knowledgeable in the industry, you can rest assured that REVIVE’s products are top notch. The oils are sustainably sourced, community focused, and cruelty free which is why REVIVE is the #1 place to find Essential Oil products online.
This is also where you can find some of the best Essential Oil Kits, Roll-ons, Blends, and Diffusers. Additionally, there are some very helpful articles and DIY recipes available on the REVIVE Blog.
