Essential Oils For Immune Support

Introduction to essential oils and immune support

Essential Oil is the first term that pops our mind when we hear “Aromatherapy". 

But what are essential oils? Are they essential? No, essential here does not mean important. It means “essence of” that particular plant from which the oil is extracted like rosemary oil, lavender oil, or lemon oil. 

Essential Oil (EO) is a highly concentrated volatile plant extract obtained from different parts of plants such as flowers, leaves, seeds, and bark. 

Do Essential oils have any benefit beyond their scent? Let’s find out.

How essential oils influence health

Using essential oils in aromatherapy relaxes the body, reduces stress, and calms the mind. 

Essential oils claim to provide several health benefits when used safely. It offers protection against bacteria, viruses, fungi, and inflammation. However, there is little research evidence to support these claims. These claims are mostly based on using essential oils in traditional medicine since time immemorial. 

In this article, we’ll discuss how essential oils support the immune system, the top essential oils for immune support, safety tips and the methods to use them. 

How natural compounds in essential oils support immune health

Essential oils (EO) are complex in structure and can be made up of about 400 different compounds.¹

The natural properties of these compounds such as phenols, terpenes, alcohol, aldehyde, and ketones help boost immunity in the following ways:

• Anticancer- Citral terpenes are found to decrease the expression of cancer-inducing genes and increase the expression of cancer-suppressing genes
• Antimicrobial- They disrupt the cell walls and membranes of the microbes, contributing to their bactericidal effect
• Anti-Inflammatory- Mitigates inflammatory conditions such as atopic dermatitis, arthritis, and respiratory inflammation by inhibiting the pathological steps in the inflammatory process
• Antioxidant- Oxygen reactive series (ROS) are unstable oxygen molecules that easily react with other molecules and cause damage to DNA, RNA, and proteins resulting in cell death. Oxidative stress is the condition that arises due to excessive ROS in the body. These compounds reduce oxidative stress and prevent diseases
• Anti-Allergic- Inhibit allergy-inducing factors. Thereby, preventing allergy

Phenols 

Phenol-rich EOs are Red thyme oil, Oregano oil, Savory oil, and Clove oil.²

Phenols have strong antioxidant and antimicrobial properties. A 2021 study revealed that the phenolic compounds in the EOs mentioned above showed strong antioxidant activities based on their proportional content.² According to another 2017 study, the phenolic EOs disrupt the inner and outer cell membranes of the microbes and cause structural and functional damage. Hence, resulting in antimicrobial activity. 

Terpenes 

The EOs rich in terpenes are Yarrow oil, Blood orange oil, and Helichrysum oil.³

Terpene-rich EOs are highly fragrant and widely used in the cosmetic, perfume, and food industries. However, they are also antimicrobial, anti-inflammatory, antioxidant, anti-allergic and anticancer.⁴ 

Alcohol 

EOs containing Alcohol are Lavender oil, Lemongrass oil, Geranium oil, Citronella oil, East-Indian geranium oil, and Rose oil.⁵

These oils stimulate the limbic system and provide a calming effect. Hence, widely used in massages, inhalation and baths. They are also antimicrobial. 

Aldehyde 

EOs containing Aldehyde are Eucalyptus oil, Lemongrass oil, and Cinnamon oil. 

Aldehydes are usually present in small quantities in EOs but have potent fragrances. They are well-known for their immunomodulatory effects meaning stimulating or suppressing immune response to fight infections and other conditions. They also have antimicrobial, antioxidant and anti-inflammatory effects.⁶

EOs containing aldehydes might cause respiratory irritation and skin irritation when applied excessively. Hence, they should be used carefully.⁶

Ketones

EOs containing ketones are Rosemary oil and Peppermint oil. 

Ketone EOs are significant in reducing respiratory infections by clearing congestion.⁷ They are also believed to aid in tissue regeneration. 

Top essential oils for immune support

A few top essential oils for immune support are discussed below:

Tea tree oil

Tea Tree oil is derived from an Australian native plant Melaleuca alternifolia. Hence it is also known as Melaleuca. It is known for its antiviral, antibacterial, antiseptic and anti-inflammatory effects.⁸

Tea Tree oil is used in various forms to obtain benefits. They are used:^9,10,11,12

• To treat wound infections due to its antimicrobial properties
• As a disinfectant in handwash
• Topically to reduce MRSA bacteria infection
• In gels to reduce acne lesions, seborrheic dermatitis, skin inflammation, and skin sun damage
• In eyelid wipes and washes to control Demodex mite infestation
• In eyelid shampoos to treat dry eyes post-cataract eye surgery
• In shampoos to get rid of dandruff
• In creams to treat athlete’s foot and nail fungus
• In toothpaste to reduce dental plaque
• In mouthwash to treat oral candida infection
• Combined with lavender oil during chemotherapy to relieve anxiety

Eucalyptus oil

Eucalyptus (Eucalyptus globulusa) oil is derived from the leaves of the Eucalyptus tree native to Tasmania, Australia. It is widely used in traditional and modern medicines. Cineole or Eucalyptol is a major constituent in eucalyptus oil contributing to numerous health benefits. They are used:^{13,14,15,16,17}

• To treat respiratory viral infections such as H1N1 influenza, SARS-CoV-2, bronchiolitis, rhinosinusitis, asthma, cold and cough by reducing inflammation, relaxing respiratory muscles, and breaking down mucus
• As an adjuvant in antiviral vaccines
• To treat cold sores
• To relieve arthritis pain, headaches, and sore muscles by inhaling or rolling on
• In mouthwashes to relieve bad breath and reduce dental plaque
• In repellents to keep away mosquitoes, mites and other insects

Lavender oil

Lavender (Lavandula angustifolia) oil is well known for its pleasant scent and medicinal properties due to primary components linalool and terpineol. It has several applications ranging from clinical dentistry to surgical implications. They are used:^18,19,20

• As a massage oil which helps relax the central nervous system, enhances sleep, and reduces anxiety and depression
• As an antioxidant to prevent damage from free radicals
• As an antimicrobial agent to inhibit the growth of bacteria
• To reduce blood pressure and heart rate
• To enhance hair growth in patients with alopecia (hair loss)
• To enhance sexual desire
• To reduce dementia (memory loss) in Alzheimer’s patients
• To reduce the need for analgesics (painkillers) in HIV-positive patients
• To stop the growth of cancer cells in Lung cancer

Lemon oil

Lemon (Citrus limonum) oil is widely famous for its flavour and fresh scent. It has been used in ancient India and Egypt for centuries. It is used:^21,22

• As an antimicrobial and antioxidant agent in food and pharmaceutical industries
• As an antibiofilm, antibacterial and antifungal agent
• As a detoxifying agent to cleanse the body
• In the treatment of inflammation, heart diseases, liver diseases and cancer
• In serums and gels to prevent oxidative skin damage and treat acne
• To treat morning sickness and reduce vomiting tendency
• To reduce anxiety, spasms and depression
• To reduce stress, enhance mood, and improve focus

Oregano oil

Oregano (Origanum vulgare) oil contains carvacrol and thymol, major constituents that support the immune system in the following ways:^23,24,25

• Strong antimicrobial activities against bacteria such as staphylococcal infection and fungi such as candida
• Strong antioxidant activities by inactivating free radicals and preventing the risk of developing chronic diseases like arthritis, cancer and atherosclerosis
• Improve digestion and promote weight loss
• Antibacterial against dental plaque
• Treating skin wounds and infections

Safety considerations

EOs are concentrated liquids which must be handled carefully. Before discussing the methods of using EOs, it is important to understand the safety considerations implied in using EOs. 

• Make sure the EO is authentic and genuine before buying it
• Buy it from well-trusted brands only
• Read the labels carefully and look out for the botanical name and list of ingredients. Pure EOs have only one ingredient usually that is the oil in its 100% pure form
• Compare the prices. EOs are usually expensive because it takes several hundred pounds to make one pound of EO. The cheap ones are usually not in their original form
• Buy the EOs packaged in brown or blue bottles. It prevents damage from visible light and UV rays. 
• Dilute the EO before using it to prevent irritation, allergy or chemical burns to the skin
• Always perform a patch test before using the oil topically
• Some EOs like peppermint, turmeric, clove, and helichrysum can irritate the respiratory tract and cause wheezing. Hence, they should not be diffused or inhaled
• Avoid inhaling EO directly from the bottle. It can be applied on jewellery or pulse points for easy inhalation
• Avoid using EOs for children, pregnant women, epileptic patients, and severe skin disorders.
• Always consult a physician before trying an EO
• Most research and trials for EO have been conducted on animals and not humans. The benefits and potential side effects must be evaluated before trying an EO

Methods of using essential oils for immune support

Diffusion

Diffusion is the most common method of using essential oils. It means spreading the essential oil in the air by a device called a diffuser. 

Olfaction of diffused essential oil in the air directly reaches the brain to activate the immune system and soothe the mind. It also enters the bloodstream within a few seconds.²⁶

Some EOs safely used via diffusion are lavender, lemon, eucalyptus, sweet orange, and frankincense. 

Topical application

EOs can be diluted with a carrier oil and used topically. It is the best method to apply EOs on skin, scalp and wounds. It can also help relieve menstrual pain, muscle pain and joint pain.²⁷

Applying EOs on areas such as the chest and soles of the feet is believed to boost the immune system. 

Inhalation and steam inhalation

Adding a few drops of essential oil to hot water while steam inhalation can help relieve nasal congestion and sinus pressure. Eucalyptus oil is the most preferred oil.

Summary

Essential Oils are highly concentrated volatile liquids extracted from plants believed to yield several health benefits. When used safely, they help boost the immune system. The top EOs for immune support are Tea tree, Eucalyptus, Lavender, Lemon and Oregano. They can be diffused, inhaled or applied topically. Diluting EOs is a must before use. The health benefits of EOs are more than the few potential side effects. Hence, EOs are encouraged to be used after consulting a physician for a healthier lifestyle.