What Essential Oils Are Good for Sinuses & Ear Aches?

http://www.livestrong.com/article/186116-what-essential-oils-are-good-for-sinuses-ear-aches/

Dec 8, 2010 | By Leigh Zaykoski

Dr. Wellington S. Tichenor, a New York City allergist, defines the sinuses as air pockets located inside the skull bones. In some cases, bacteria enter the ears and sinuses, causing ear aches, congestion and other symptoms. Some essential oils alleviate these symptoms and improve discomfort. Before using essential oils to alleviate ear aches and sinus problems, consult a physician, especially if you have kidney disease, heart problems or other chronic conditions.

PEPPERMINT OIL

Peppermint provides flavor for foods and snacks, but it also has medicinal uses. This herb consists of a cross between spearmint and water mint. The essential oil produced by peppermint comes in liquid and capsule forms. Some alternative health practitioners also dilute peppermint oil with other oils and apply the resulting blend to the skin. The University of New Hampshire Office of Health Education and Promotion explains that peppermint oil cleanses the sinuses. Although some people can use peppermint oil safely, it can cause heartburn and allergic reactions. It can also interfere with the use of antacid medications used to treat heartburn.

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Essential Oil Monoterpenes

Essential oil monoterpenes consist of substances found in citrus oil, eucalyptus oil and pine oil. Beth Israel Deaconess Medical Center explains that several well-designed studies indicate that this blend eases the symptoms of bronchitis, sinusitis and other conditions that affect the respiratory system. Many cough drops contain eucalyptus because of its ability to soothe the symptoms of colds and sinus infections. 

Anyone interested in using essential oil monoterpenes should understand the possible side effects. Essential oils can aggravate existing allergies or irritate the nasal passages. Lemon oil may reduce the effectiveness of the antibiotic chloroquine and increase the absorption of iron in the body, according to Drugs.com. Pregnant women and people with serious respiratory conditions, heart problems and infectious diseases should not use pine oil. Pine oil can also cause mucous membrane irritation and kidney poisoning if an overdose occurs. People with inflammatory conditions, high blood pressure, kidney disease and liver disease should avoid using eucalyptus essential oil. Pregnant women and people with asthma should also avoid eucalyptus oil.

Tea Tree Oil

Tea tree oil has antibacterial and antifungal properties that give it use as an antimicrobial agent. For people experiencing sinus infections and ear aches caused by ear infections, tea tree oil may kill the bacteria causing the infection and relieve the symptoms. Few medical studies have determined the true effects of tea tree oil, so use caution when taking this substance. As of July 2010, tea tree oil does not have any known drug interactions, according to the University of Michigan Health System. Since tea tree oil can cause a burning sensation, avoid applying it near the eyes and mouth.

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References

• Dr. Wellington S. Tichenor: Frequently Asked Questions
• University of New Hampshire Office of Health Education and Promotion Health Services: Spa Party: Caring for Your Body Caring for You
• Beth Israel Deaconess Medical Center: Essential Oil Monoterpenes
• University of Michigan Health Care System: Tea Tree

Article reviewed by Jessica Lyons Last updated on: Dec 8, 2010

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