Some essential oils, such as eucalyptus and peppermint, may ease cough or cold symptoms by soothing the throat or relaxing the muscles.
People need to use these oils with caution, as there are no approved guidelines about how best to use them. Many essential oils are also unsafe for children, pets, or pregnant people.
In this article, we look at evidence to support the use of essential oils in treating coughs. We also discuss the best ways to use these oils, their risks, and when to speak with a doctor.
Although research suggests essential oils may have some health benefits, it is important to remember that the Food and Drug Administration (FDA) does not monitor or regulate the purity or quality of these oils. A person should talk with a healthcare professional before using essential oils and research the quality of a particular brand’s products. It is also important to always do a patch test before trying a new essential oil.
Essential oils cannot treat the underlying causes of coughs but may ease symptoms by soothing the throat or chest.
Eucalyptus essential oil
According to a 2021 review of past research, eucalyptus oil may reduce swelling, which may explain why it is present in many over-the-counter (OTC) products for coughs and colds.
When people inhale eucalyptus, it may widen the airways and help with breathing. It may also have some antimicrobial activity, including against some types of influenza virus, and may reduce pain.
However, scientists still do not know how the oil works or how well it works across different types of cough.
Peppermint essential oil
Peppermint essential oil contains menthol, which also appears in many OTC cough and cold remedies. Menthol creates a cooling sensation on the skin. When a person inhales it, it can have the same effect on the nose and throat.
However, while many people perceive peppermint oil to be a decongestant, there are few studies proving it works in this way.
A 2021 review also cautions against using menthol in those with COVID-19. This is because menthol may suppress the sensation of shortness of breath, which is an important indication that COVID-19 is worsening and may need urgent medical attention.
Cajuput essential oil
Cajuput, or white samet, is another plant that features in OTC inhalants and chest rubs for coughs and colds. It also contains a high amount of eucalyptol.
While it does not contain as much eucalyptol as other plants, a 2021 review notes it may be effective for upper respiratory symptoms, including coughing.
Camphor
Camphor originally comes from the camphor tree, or Cinnamomum camphora. It is another traditional ingredient in cough remedies and also contains a significant amount of eucalyptol.
However, it is also worth noting that camphor can irritate the lining of the airways.
The first step in using any essential oil safely is to test it. This ensures that someone has no allergy or negative reaction to the oil. Learn how to patch test.
It is also vital to dilute essential oils rather than using them straight from the bottle. To do this, people can mix a few drops into a carrier oil, such as almond or jojoba oil.
Once a person knows the oil is safe for them, they can use it in several ways. For a cough, it may help by inhaling the scent via the following methods:
- Diffuser: People can add a few drops of the oil to a diffuser, which will disperse it around the room. The diffuser instructions will tell someone how much to use.
- Steam: People can add hot water to a bowl, add some drops of essential oil, and then inhale the steam.
- Tissue or handkerchief: A person can add a few drops of the oil to a clean tissue or handkerchief and hold it near the face to inhale. They should avoid pressing the tissue to the face, as undiluted essential oils can cause skin rashes.
- Topical application: People can apply essential oils to the pulse points and inhale the vapors from the skin. However, they must first dilute them in a carrier oil, such as coconut oil.
People need to avoid ingesting essential oils.
Pure essential oils are potent and are not suitable for everyone. Possible risks include the following.
Harm to pets, children, or vulnerable people
Children, pets, and people who are pregnant or breastfeeding need to avoid exposure to essential oils.
It is also vital to keep essential oils screwed shut and kept securely out of reach. If a child, pet, or someone with impaired cognition swallows an essential oil, it can cause serious poisoning, seizures, or death.
Interactions with other conditions or drugs
People taking medications or who have other conditions also need to check with a doctor before they use essential oils. Some oils can cause drug interactions or affect the effects of treatments for other diseases.
Rashes and irritation
If skin contact occurs with someone using an essential oil, it may result in a rash known as contact dermatitis. The oils may also irritate the airways following inhalation.
Eye damage
Essential oils are also
If essential oils get into the eyes, a person needs to rinse them with milk or a vegetable carrier oil under a running faucet immediately. When the oil is gone, flush with water. If someone uses water straight away, it may not work.
People need to consult a doctor if they are considering trying essential oils to treat a cough.
A doctor can help identify the cause of the cough. Some causes of cough require medical treatment, particularly if they persist or worsen.
If a cough becomes severe or a person has an adverse reaction to an essential oil, individuals need to call a doctor. Other symptoms that require medical attention include:
- a cough that lasts more than 3 weeks
- shortness of breath
- wheezing
- coughing that produces blood
- coughing that produces thick green or brown phlegm
- difficulty swallowing
- unexplained weight loss
- fever
A person needs to seek emergency help if any of the following occur:
- difficulty breathing
- inability to stop coughing
- inability to swallow
- chest pain
- high fever
- severe allergic reaction
Anaphylaxis: Symptoms and what to do
Anaphylaxis is a severe allergic reaction that can be life threatening. The symptoms develop suddenly and include:
- hives
- swelling of the face or mouth
- wheezing
- fast, shallow breathing
- a fast heart rate
- clammy skin
- anxiety or confusion
- dizziness
- vomiting
- blue or white lips
- fainting or loss of consciousness
If someone has these symptoms:
- Check whether they are carrying an epinephrine pen. If they are, follow the instructions on the side of the pen to use it.
- Dial 911 or the number of the nearest emergency department.
- Assist the person in moving from a sitting position to lying down. If they have vomited, turn them onto their side.
- Stay with them until the emergency services arrive.
Some people may need more than one epinephrine injection. If the symptoms do not improve in 5 to 15 minutes, or they come back, use a second pen if the person has one.
Some essential oils may have properties that help ease cough symptoms. For example, they may soothe a sore throat or widen airways.
However, scientists are still learning about how essential oils work. These are potent substances with some safety risks.
A person always needs to follow safety guidelines when using essential oils and stop using them if they cause any side effects, even if they are mild.
If a cough is severe, does not go away, or accompanies other concerning symptoms, a person needs to speak with a doctor.