Essential oils for asthma Essential oils can be of great benefit concerning asthma. Some suggested essential oils for asthma are:
Asthma is a respiratory ailment in which the throat and lungs constrict, making it difficult for a person to breathe. In its mildest form, this condition, which manifests itself as recurring attacks, is uncomfortable; at its worst, it can be life-threatening. Constriction of the airways, making the chest tight and breathing difficult, is worrying especially the young. Aromatherapy can help but it is important not to discontinue any meditation prescribed by your doctor. Using a vaporizer with 2 drops of atlas cedarwood and 4 drops of lavender at night will help sleep. The same oil can be used in bath. Remember to halves the quantities for children. Lavender is the best oils to use in asthma. It is relaxing and calming emotionally and a gentle antispasmodic that soothes and comfort distress. Another essential oils for asthma are Atlas cedarwood and frankincense. These essential oils are woody, comforting oils that help slow down the breathing, giving a sense of peace and openness the chest. For children age 3 until 10 can be treated for the conditions described above, but half the number of stated drops must be used. A vaporizer in the bedroom with 3 drops eucalyptus and 3 drops lavender will aid sleep. German studies have shown that chamomile may slow allergic reactions, such as those that trigger asthma attacks, by increasing the adrenal glands' production of cortisone, which reduces lung inflammation and makes breathing easier. Lavender Chest Rub
Combine ingredients. Rub on chest as needed, especially before bedtime. An alternative to the chest rub is an herbal steam that uses these same essential oils. Chest rub, steam and hot lavender bath can be safely used even after the child begins to wheeze. Please don't use essential oils during an asthma attack, but between attacks try a chest rub. If you have an attack you can use lavender steam. The steam opens airways, while the lavender quickly relaxes lung spasms. This may halt the attack right in its tracks or at least make it less severe.
Try the following recipes for asthma relief between attacks. Asthma Inhalation Rub
Combine the ingredients. Rub on chest as needed, especially before bedtime. Because asthmatics can be extremely sensitive to scent, do a sniff test first. Test the formula by simply sniffing it to make sure there is no adverse reaction.
Bring water to a simmer, turn off heat, and add essential oils. Set the pan where you can sit down next to it. Place your face over the steam and drape a towel over the back of your head to form a mini-sauna. Breathe in the steam, coming out for fresh air as needed. Do at least three rounds of steam inhalation several times a day. Fresh or dried eucalyptus leaves can be added to the water instead of the pure essential oil. You can replace the eucalyptus oil with other essential oils for asthma as listed such as lavender. Whichever essential oil you use, be sure to keep your eyes closed while steaming. It's okay to use this steam as often as you like. Kathi Keville is director of the American Herb Association and editor of the American Herb Association Quarterly newsletter. A writer, photographer, consultant, and teacher specializing in aromatherapy and herbs for over 25 years, she has written several books, including Aromatherapy: The Complete Guide to the Healing Art and Pocket Guide to Aromatherapy, and has written over 150 articles for such magazines as New Age Journal, The Herb Companion, and New Herbal Remedies. 
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