Aromatherapy For Copd: Helpful Or Harmful?

Aromatherapy is a popular complementary therapy for a variety of ailments, but can it help with chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD)? COPD is a lung condition that affects over 11 million Americans and causes obstructed airflow and difficult breathing. While there is no cure, treatments can help ease symptoms and slow the disease's progression. So, what about aromatherapy? Is it safe for people with COPD?

Eucalyptus oil's anti-inflammatory properties

Aromatherapy is a popular complementary therapy for people with Chronic Obstructive Pulmonary Disease (COPD). COPD is a chronic, lifelong condition that affects the lungs and causes breathing difficulties. It is often caused by long-term exposure to harmful pollutants and toxins, such as cigarette smoke.

Eucalyptus oil is a popular essential oil that is used in aromatherapy. It has a range of medicinal properties, including anti-inflammatory effects.

Eucalyptus oil contains a compound called cineole, also known as eucalyptol, which has been found to exhibit anti-inflammatory properties. Research has shown that cineole can inhibit the production of inflammatory mediators, such as tumour necrosis factor (TNF), interleukin-1, leukotrienes, and thromboxane. This results in a decrease in inflammation and can help to relieve symptoms of COPD.

One study found that cineole had antimicrobial effects on bacteria that cause respiratory illnesses. Eucalyptus oil also stimulates the immune system, which can help to destroy harmful bacteria and speed up healing.

In addition to its anti-inflammatory properties, eucalyptus oil can also help to clear mucus from the lungs and open up the airways. This makes it a useful complementary therapy for people with COPD, as it can help to improve breathing and reduce congestion.

Eucalyptus oil has a wide range of other benefits, including the ability to relieve coughing, keep insects away, and soothe cold sores. It is also used in some oral hygiene products due to its antibacterial properties.

Overall, eucalyptus oil is a valuable complementary therapy for people with COPD, thanks to its anti-inflammatory and other beneficial properties. However, it should not be used as a replacement for conventional medical treatments. It is important to consult with a doctor or aromatherapist to create an individualized plan that meets your specific needs.

Essential oils to avoid

Aromatherapy is a natural complementary treatment for COPD, but it is not a cure. It is important to consult a doctor before using essential oils to treat COPD, as they can have adverse effects.

Some essential oils can irritate the mucus membrane, making symptoms worse. Oils that should be avoided for this reason include cinnamon, clove, and lemongrass.

It is also important to avoid adding essential oils to a CPAP machine, as they can eat away at the plastic and destroy the device. Furthermore, inhaling essential oils for a prolonged period through a CPAP is not recommended, as it can lead to overexposure.

When using essential oils for aromatherapy, it is recommended to use a passive diffuser to achieve continuous, gentle diffusion. Active diffusers should only be used for 30-60 minutes at a time to prevent adverse reactions.

It is also important to note that essential oils should not be ingested, as they can be dangerous. If you think you have ingested essential oils, contact poison control or a medical professional immediately.

Diffusing essential oils safely

Diffusing essential oils is a great way to fill your home with natural fragrance and can even offer some therapeutic benefits. However, it's important to take certain precautions to ensure you're doing it safely. Here are some tips for diffusing essential oils safely:

• Use in moderation: While essential oils can provide many benefits, they are highly concentrated and should be used in moderation. Diffuse for shorter periods and take breaks in between sessions.
• Ventilate the room: Ensure proper ventilation in the room by keeping windows open or using a fan to circulate the air. This helps prevent an overly concentrated atmosphere and reduces the risk of adverse reactions.
• Avoid sensitive areas: Do not diffuse essential oils near newborns, babies, young children, pregnant or nursing women, or pets. Some individuals, such as those with allergies or respiratory conditions, may be more sensitive to strong fragrances.
• Choose safe oils: Not all essential oils are suitable for diffusion. Avoid oils that are known to irritate the mucous membranes, such as clove, cinnamon bark, lemongrass, and thyme. Opt for gentler options like peppermint, lavender, tea tree, eucalyptus, and chamomile.
• Follow diffuser instructions: Different types of diffusers have specific instructions for use. Always read and follow the manufacturer's guidelines for your particular diffuser.
• Avoid direct contact: Keep essential oils away from the eyes, ear canals, and other sensitive areas. If essential oils come into contact with the eyes, rinse with a carrier oil or water.
• Clean your diffuser regularly: Proper maintenance of your diffuser is important. Clean it regularly with soap and warm water to prevent the build-up of mould or bacteria.
• Avoid adding carrier oils: Do not add carrier oils to your diffuser, as they may damage it.
• Be cautious with plastics: Essential oils can eat through plastics, so avoid storing them in plastic containers.
• Avoid using in humidifiers: Essential oils should not be used in humidifiers, as these devices are not designed for oil diffusion.
• Monitor your reaction: When trying new essential oils, start slowly and observe your body's reaction. If you experience any negative symptoms, discontinue use and consult a healthcare professional.
• Consult a professional: If you have any concerns or specific health conditions, consult a qualified aromatherapist or healthcare provider for personalised advice.

Herbal treatments for COPD

Aromatherapy is a complementary treatment option for COPD. It can help ease symptoms and support other therapies, but it should not be used as a replacement for other treatments. It is important to consult a doctor before using essential oils, as they can irritate the airways and cause allergic reactions.

Eucalyptus Oil

Eucalyptus oil contains an ingredient called cineole, which has antimicrobial effects on bacteria that cause respiratory illnesses. Eucalyptus oil also has anti-inflammatory properties and stimulates the immune system, helping to destroy harmful bacteria that are aggravating COPD symptoms. It may also soothe the throat and chest and speed up healing. Research suggests that eucalyptus oil may be beneficial in the long-term management of asthma and COPD.

Lavender Oil

Lavender oil is known for its soothing scent and antibacterial properties. A study on mice found that it might suppress inflammation of mucus in the respiratory system and help with bronchial asthma, suggesting it could be a good treatment for COPD. However, more research is needed on its effects on humans.

Orange Oil

Orange oil has a lovely scent and has been shown to have anti-inflammatory and antioxidant properties. It also helps with COPD.

Bergamot Oil

Bergamot is another member of the citrus family, popular for its scent and ability to soothe the nervous system. It may help to ease pain and soreness caused by coughing during a COPD flare-up.

Frankincense and Myrrh

Frankincense and myrrh are ancient essential oils that have been used as remedies for respiratory conditions. They have anti-inflammatory effects and may boost overall health and well-being. However, their specific benefits for COPD symptoms are mostly anecdotal.

Thyme and Oregano

Thyme and oregano essential oils contain compounds called carvacrol and thymol, which have been found to reduce inflammation in the airways and provide a protective antioxidant effect in animal studies. However, these oils may irritate the airways when diffused too heavily, so they are best used in a topical chest rub.

Dietary Changes

Changing your diet to include more antioxidant vitamins, such as vitamins E and C, may improve lung function.

When to seek medical advice

Aromatherapy is a complementary treatment for COPD, and it should not be used as a replacement for other therapies. However, it is important to seek professional advice before using essential oils.

• If you suspect you have COPD, you should seek medical advice for diagnosis and treatment. COPD symptoms may include regular shortness of breath, frequent respiratory infections, and excess phlegm production. Early detection is key to finding a working treatment.
• If you experience any new or worsening symptoms after using essential oils, such as irritation, allergic reactions, or difficulty breathing, stop using the oils and seek medical advice.
• If you accidentally ingest essential oils, contact poison control or a medical professional immediately.
• If you are using essential oils and experience a COPD flare-up with symptoms such as shortness of breath, seek medical attention within 24 hours. Other symptoms that require prompt medical attention include the presence of blood or discoloured mucus, excessive coughing or wheezing, extreme fatigue, swelling in the ankles or wrists, and sudden weight changes.
• If you are considering using essential oils in combination with other treatments or medications, consult a doctor or pharmacist to ensure there are no contraindications or negative interactions.
• If you are pregnant, or there are children or pets present, exercise caution when using essential oils as they can be toxic to some individuals.

Frequently asked questions