healthy diet and a robust immune system can lay down the foundation of a healthy life. A healthy immune system can safeguard you from any disease. Strong immunity plays a vital role in keeping the disease away from you and reduce the risk of falling sick. People with compromised immunity often get ill, and even their symptoms are more severe than others.

There are numerous ways to boost up your immune system. Essential oils can also help to increase your immunity. Diffusion of essential oils can filter and cleanse the air, giving further protection from infections.

How does essential oil boost immunity?

Essential oils have different pharmacological activities that increase immunity. They can strengthen the immune system by destroying toxic bacteria and viruses. To some extent, all essential oils have antiviral, antibacterial, and antiseptic effects. Essential oils can fight infections, detoxify the air, relieve flu-like symptoms, and provide comfort during sickness [8].

Essential oils also have psychological benefits. Essential oils r promote relaxation through the reduction of cortisol levels. Hormone cortisol decreases the defense mechanisms of the immune system by reducing lymphocyte concentrations and T-cell production. It can also help to alleviate stress and anxiety.

Best essential oils for the Immune System

Essential oils can be beneficial at any time of year. The essential oils are utilized in a variety of ways, but we’ll focus on inhalation.

1. Eucalyptus essential oil:

Eucalyptus Globulus is well-known for its invigorating scent, cleaning capabilities, and support with respiratory illnesses. It is rich in 1,8-cineole. It improves the health and function of monocytes, as well as the production of T-cells.  Antibacterial properties of eucalyptus oil are used to remove pathogenic from the upper respiratory tract. Its aromas also relax the respiratory tract muscles and decongest sinuses, as well as relieve uncomfortable coughs. It stimulates the immune system and revitalizes the body due to its powerful antibacterial and anti-inflammatory effects[1].

2. Lemon essential oil:

Lemon essential oil is a powerful mood booster. It reliably reduces the symptoms of anxiety and depression. The lemon essential oil also has powerful antioxidant and antibacterial properties that benefit the immune system and increase energy levels. The lemon essential oil has also been linked to increased lymphocyte production, the body’s natural immune cell[2].

3. Rosemary essential oil

Rosemary essential oil contains powerful antimicrobial characteristics that can help your body stay healthy. It has an anti-inflammatory impact on air passage due to its high content of 1,8-cineole. Rosemary essential oil lowers cortisol levels and thereby improving immune system strength and improve mood[3].

4. Tea tree essential oil:

Tea tree essential oil is an antibacterial agent that fights infections and inhibits the growth of harmful germs. Tea tree essential oil is a significant immune booster, with potent antibacterial and antifungal properties due to the high quantities of alpha-sabine and antiseptic capabilities of terpinenen-4-ol. Tea tree essential oil improves immunity by dramatically decreased proteins that cause inflammatory response[4].

5. Clove essential oil:

One of the most potent antibacterial essential oils is clove essential oil. Its high eugenol content promotes antibacterial and antifungal activities, which help to remove toxic molecules from the air [5]. Clove essential oil improves the regeneration of particular immune systems and inflammation-related cells and proteins.

Bottom-line

Essential oils can be a great way to boost a robust immune system. These oils include antiviral, antibacterial, antimicrobial, and antioxidant qualities that help maintain harmony and balance in our immune system. Essential oils may be the solution if you’re seeking a natural, non-toxic way to support your body in fighting unwanted invaders!

References:

• Serafino, Annalucia, et al. “Stimulatory effect of Eucalyptus essential oil on innate cell-mediated immune response.” BMC immunology 9.1 (2008): 1-16.
• Viuda‐Martos, M., et al. “Antibacterial activity of lemon (Citrus lemon L.), mandarin (Citrus reticulata L.), grapefruit (Citrus paradisi L.) and orange (Citrus sinensis L.) essential oils.” Journal of food safety 28.4 (2008): 567-576.
• Ahmed, Hiwa M., and Muhammed Babakir‐Mina. “Investigation of rosemary herbal extracts (Rosmarinus officinalis) and their potential effects on immunity.” Phytotherapy Research 34.8 (2020): 1829-1837.
• Zhang, Gang, et al. “Effects of tea tree oil supplementation on growth performance, antioxidant capacity, immune status and microbial community in weaned pigs.” Archives of Animal Nutrition 75.2 (2021): 121-136.
• Mehr, M. Azadegan, et al. “Supplementation of clove essential oils and probiotic on blood components, lymphoid organs and immune response in broiler chickens.” Research Opinions in Animal & Veterinary Sciences 4.4 (2014).