These are the best essential oils for cold and flu (tried and tested)

Aromatherapy is the art of using essential oils to help restore balance in the body and is a form of natural healing that has eased people's lives for many centuries. Today it represents one of the fastest-growing complementary therapies in the world.

Essential oils have been used since time immemorial to treat minor symptoms like colds and flu.

Here are my top picks that work best for cold and flu.

Tea Tree Essential Oil

Teatree botanically known as "Melaleuca alternifolia" is a very effective antiseptic in skin care and respiratory ailments. Its key quality is in strengthening the immune system. It is highly effective in fighting against colds, flu, and infections and helps with respiratory conditions like asthma, bronchitis, catarrh, coughs, and sinusitis.

Lavender

Lavender also known as "Lavendula officinalis/augustifolia" is renowned for its ability to deal with cough, cold, sinus, and headaches. Next time you catch a bad cold, inhale this through a diffuser or diffuse 2-3 drops in a non-comedogenic light carrier oil like sweet almond or safflower and massage it over your face, temples, and forehead.

Frankincense

Frankincense oil has immune-boosting properties and can help reduce inflammation. It also helps alleviate respiratory issues associated with colds and flu.

Eucalyptus

Eucalyptus oil has antimicrobial properties and is an age-old remedy to relieve congestion. It helps clear nasal passages and ease breathing.