The body of scientific evidence regarding the potency of plant medicines against a great variety of viruses is growing. And with the concern of viral illness in the headlines, now is the time to investigate all the ways you can protect your health and the health of your family. Essential oils from many plant families have now been demonstrated to have antiviral properties in laboratory research across the globe. More and more people are turning to the vast healing potential of these plant medicines, realizing the great potency they have, along with the balance of our natural environment that is supported through their use. These essential oils are readily available at health food stores -- though the most consistent high grade therapeutic quality may be from internet sources. Using essential oils for immune system support is a tried-and-true application of these powerful natural medicines. In fact, most medical aromatherapists consider the most important use of essential oils in medical applications will be for the prevention and treatment of infectious illness (see Dr. Kurt Schnaubelt's 'Medical Aromatherapy').
Research Is In: The Anti-Viral and Immune-Supportive Activity of Essential Oils
For the treatment and prevention of infectious illness, essential oils are used for two purposes: the general strengthening of the immune system and the direct eradication of viruses. A great many peer-reviewed research papers have been produced showing the efficacy of essential oils for both purposes. Using the database of the National Institute of Health (www.pubmed.gov) one can review the data by searching for terms such as 'essential oil virus' (currently producing 93 results) or 'essential oil immune' (producing 143 results) and the like. Essential oils have been shown to actually increase the power of lymphocytes (the immune system's troops, so to speak), making them better able to eliminate foreign invaders in the body (viruses, bacteria, and the like). Oils can also increase the speed at which the immune system produces antibodies to eliminate an infection.
Perhaps even more exciting is the direct effect of essential oils in actually killing viruses. To those in the natural medicine field, this is not so astounding -- essential oils work as part of a plant's immune system, and plants need to defend themselves from viruses as well. And the viruses which infect plants are not all that different from the viruses that infect humans -- their envelopes and other structures are fairly similar (though with different transmission strategies), such that the mechanisms of killing the viruses will still be useful for human use. The same oils that are effective against SARS and HSV should show some, if not all of the same activity against H1N1 (also known as Swine Flu) and H5N1 (Avian influenza). At the same time, essential oils are relatively non-toxic for humans, allowing for regular use as both preventative and healing agents. In fact, when studying the anti-viral effects of essential oils, researchers found that normal cells seemed to acquire a special resistance to viral penetration, though the mechanism for this effect is not yet known. Using one or more oils topically (they are easily absorbed through the skin) or in a diffuser on a daily basis can support this effect (more on which oils to use in a minute).
Essential Oils for Both Immune Support and Eradication of Viruses
When evaluating oils for your own formulas, it is important to take both actions into consideration -- that of enhancing immune system action AND eradication of any viral agents in which one may come in contact with. Some oils are known to do both: Research presented in the April 2006 issue of Phytotherapy Research indicated Frankincense can be a potent anti-viral. It is also considered by some highly-trained aromatherapists to be the most potent immunostimulant essential oil. Melissa essential oil may have similar activity (these two oils are among the most revered oils for their multiple positive health effects). Other oils are know anti-anxiety agents, which again has a downstream result on a stronger immune system: these include Lavender, Bergamot and Sandalwood oils. Still other oils are thought to help with detoxification, further lessening the burden on the immune system: Rosemary, Fennel and Carrot Seed are important oils in this respect. Using several oils in combination, creating a well rounded blend to address multiple factors of immune response will likely produce the most effective formula. Think about where you might need the most support -- if you're immunity is strong, perhaps only the virus-eradicating oils are necessary. If you're under a lot of stress, it's important to include oils that address this issue, while both boosting immunity and eradicating viral invaders.
The Anti-Viral Essential Oils: Melissa
The collection of scientifically validated research of the ability of essential oils to act directly against viruses has exploded in the last several years, with more interest in this field growing dramatically in 2009. Many oils have shown to be effective not only in petri dishes, but in living subjects as well. Melissa, also known as 'Lemon Balm' is an essential oil distilled from an herb with a long history of use in natural medicine. It is one of the only oils thought to be able to completely eradicate the Herpes Simplex virus in humans, and prevents the virus from transmitting from cell to cell. While somewhat costly (if the oil is found at a price that seems to good to be true, it is more than likely not 'true' Melissa), the oil is only needed in very small amounts to be effective (Dr Schnaubelt, in 'Advanced Aromatherapy' considers a 1:100 dilution to still retain the efficacy of the pure oil). Melissa is safe for human ingestion and direct topical application.
Rosalina and Tea Tree: High Power Australian Oils
Tea Tree, because we've all been using for so long, slips our mind when considering oils for more 'serious' applications. The naturally occurring terpines in Tea Tree are among the most potent anti-viral constituents found in essential oils. Yet not all of us are very fond of Tea Tree's aroma; what's important to know that Tea Tree actually has a wonderful 'nutmeggy' aroma when it's fresh ? and Tea Tree happens to be one of the essential oils that is better tolerated when it's fresh (if the smell is unpleasant, it's likely old or not of good quality). The research backing the antiviral action is probably more comprehensive than any other essential oil. While aromatherapists do not consider Tea Tree the first line of defense for influenza, it could certainly be a helpful component in blends with other appropriate oils for this purpose. Also in the Melaluca family is Rosalina, or 'Lavender Tea Tree'. This relatively new oil seems to have an exceptional balance of properties, acting as both an anti-stress agent and a potent antimicrobial. Some therapists consider this oil may be the better choice for anti-viral protection.
Anti-Viral Oils Specific for Influenza
Case studies by professional aromatherapists have been presented where oils have been matched to the symptoms of the viral infection. Oils from plants of the Myrtaceae family (Eucalyptus Radiata, Tea Tree and Ravensara) have helped in cases of respiratory tract infections. For the lower respiratory tract, Hyssop decumbens has been successfully used. Bay Laurel essential oil has been specifically noted for its ability to destroy the virus causing SARS. All these oils are excellent in combination: Eucalyptus Radiata, Ravensara aromatica, Tea Tree, Hyssop and Bay Laurel would make an absolutely wonderful, highly-potent blend for diffusion. Additional oils from the herbs of Oregano and Thyme could be added if the formula were to be used topically (Note: these oils are so strong as to possibly cause irritation of the mucus membranes if inhaled in significant quantities. They are best used along with carrier oils on the reflex points of the feet associated with the respiratory system: the bottom of the foot from the ball to the pinky toe, and directly above this on the top of the foot).
Creating Your Formula (or finding one and using it!)
Making your own formulas for home use, whether in a diffuser or for topical application is exceptionally easy to do. Don't be wary of mixing your own ? once you do it, you'll find it fun and educating, likely even giving you more personal ownership and understanding of the use of oils. Diffusing the oils in your environment is considered by some practitioners is considered by some therapists to be THE MOST EFFECTIVE way to use their protective effects. For this use, an example formula may be equal parts of Bay Laurel, Eucalyptus Radiata, Tea Tree, Hyssop decumbens, and Ravensara. If you find any of the aromas overwhelming, just reduce the portion of the blend of that oil. So you could just pipette 1 milliliter of each oil into a separate bottle, then use this formula in a nebulizing diffuser. The same formula can be mixed for topical application by blending 1 part of this recipe into 9 parts of a carrier oil (such as gently melted virgin Coconut oil ? which is considered to have antiviral properties itself) and used as a daily foot massage. Melissa oil can be included if you wish to enhance the formula. Rubbing this blend into the areas of the body where the lymph nodes are close to the surface is also recommended: the sternum, armpits and neck are receptive areas. If you choose to use the blend in a diffuser, remember that the carrier oil should then NOT be used (it will not evaporate properly!).
These same essential oils can be made into a spray by diluting them in spring water at a 1 to 10 ration. Simply add the oils to a small spray bottle with the water and shake vigorously. This is an excellent way to treat yourself and your family when traveling! Do, of course keep this blend away from the eyes and out of the reach of children. The formulas should be further diluted if they are to be used with young ones (dilute half again in water or carrier oil); there are a number of fine texts available describing essential oil use with kids -- be sure to understand all precautions by consulting these manuals or discussing the use of essential oils with a knowledgeable practitioner.
Essential Oils are the Foundation of Aroma-Medicine: Use Them!
Essential oils are simply the concentrated volatile natural chemicals of plants. Plant medicine has a long, effective history, and the use of essential oils is no exception. Studies around the world support their use in treating infectious illness, and specifically in preventing and treating viral diseases. If you can, follow your intuition with their use, frequency and dosage. Be careful not to overdo it, as the potency of these medicines implies that only small amounts are needed to produce the desired effects. The formulas described here are not meant to supplant other means of preventing and curing illnesses, but to complement them. Remember that many aromatherapists consider this the most effective use essential oils may have for us, why not give it a try!
