As someone self-isolating myself with cold/flu-like symptoms and as a high risk to this respiratory virus, I wanted to still do all I can to support and help others - for this is not something that is going to go away overnight

Speaking to my father yesterday, he acknowledged that this is far worse than the war that the elder generation had to face.

Combined with the ways that we live today, the knock-on effects and impact on lives will be far-reaching than just the spread of the virus and the lives lost.

As someone who attempted to get paracetamol (without luck) today for my symptoms, as I am advised against taking ibuprofen with my asthma, especially in response to this virus, the ways that we can self-support are even more important. Essential oils can strengthen and support the immune response in a number of ways; opposing the bacteria and viruses and also increasing the activity of the organs and cells which fight against them.

Their natural properties protect against infectious organisms; bacteria, fungi, and viruses.

Many blends of essential oils are indeed inspired by the legend of the four 15th century thieves, who robbed the bodies of the plague victims, protecting themself against infection with Cloves and Rosemary.

Many blends of essential oils are indeed inspired by the legend of the four 15th century thieves, who robbed the bodies of the plague victims, protecting themself against infection with Cloves and Rosemary.

Essential oils can today be used in a burner, steam inhalation, aromatherapy inhaler, massage and blended into topical base products; such as hand wash, shower gel and hand sanitizer.

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Antiviral essential oils include; Basil, Bergamot, Cinnamon, Clove, Eucalyptus, Grapefruit, Lavender, Lemon, Lime, Mandarin, Marjoram, Peppermint, Myrrh, Niaouli, Palmarosa, Patchouli, Ravensara, Rosemary, Rosewood, Sage, Tea Tree, Thyme.

During times such as we find ourselves in today, sleep, hydration and even a humidifier help to keep the mucous membranes moist, which helps to trap viruses entering the body.

Immune-boosting foods, such as; citrus, red pepper, broccoli, garlic, ginger, spinach, turmeric, and vitamin c can help. Moderate exercise and a reduction in stress are vital, as the stress hormone cortisol suppresses our immunity.

When possible massage stimulates the production of white blood cells for protection against infection.

Essential oils for Coughs or Cold support and develop immunity.

  • Lavender
  • Eucalyptus
  • Lemon
  • Tea TreeLavender - good for headaches, aching joints and to aid a restful nights sleep
  • Eucalyptus - Antibacterial and viral, decongestant when used as a steam inhalation. Good for nasal congestion, and inhibits the spread of the virus.
  • use early in the day as a stimulant Lemon - Revitalises and combats fatigue.
  • Antibacterial and Viral.

Infection and fever-reducing (can be sponged over the body in water to reduce fever)Tea Tree - Effective against bacteria, fungi, and viruses. Powerful immunostimulant which helps fight illness and improve recovery.  *Great to use with the onset in a bath or to stop then cold developing or the severity, secondary issues.

Other good oils are

  • Benzoin
  • Niaouli
  • Peppermint
  • Pine
  • avensara
  • Sandalwood
  • Marjoram
  • Thyme

Recipes to support scratchy throat

  • Steam (goes straight into the bloodstream) - Eucalyptus (1 drop), Thyme (1), Lemon (2), Tea Tree (4) - use 2-3 times a day.
  • Daytime diffuser - Tea tree (6), Ravensara (3), Rosemary (2).  Stimulate immunity and fights infection
  • Reviving Bath Blend - decongestant - Eucalyptus (1), Rosemary (2), Bergamot (4)Tea Tree (2) - add to 20ml of an unscented bath or shower gel. Add salts if achy
  • Sore Throat Soother - 10ml carrier oil, Sandalwood (5), Lavender (4), Eucalyptus (1) - rub onto chest and throat Inhaler - Lemon (2), Eucalyptus (2), Lavender (2) Tea Tree (4)
  • Immune boost - Lavender, Niaouli, Rosemary or Thyme, Lemon, Tea Tree
  • Vapourised blend to help stop infections during epidemics - Thyme, Eucalyptus, Lavender
  • Natural support includes increasing ginger and garlic for immunity.
  • Onions, Leeks, Parsley, Thyme all improve immunity.
  • Reducing dairy will support the build-up of catarrh.
  • Avoid orange juice as aids mucus congestion. Pineapple is a good alternative as it breaks down congestion.
  • Vitamin C, Manuka honey and also rosemary tea are all great natural support.


photograph of essential oils

Essential oils and natural support for self-isolating and anxiety during the unknown.

Bergamot is a natural Prozac

Clary Sage creates feelings of Euphoria and also is a calming sedative

Valerian provides a natural grounding, calm, and better sleep

Patchouli calms mental chatter and balances the emotions

Rose Geranium supports emotional roller coasters

Good oils for relaxation are; Bergamot, Chamomile, Clary Sage, Frankincense, Lavender, Geranium, Jasmine, Mandarin, Marjoram, Neroli, Orange, Petitgrain, Rose, Sandalwood, Vetivert, Ylang Ylang

Support recipes

Patchouli, Sandalwood, and Orange on a cotton wool pad and inhaled is a great quick way to support the mind Soothing Spritz - Clary Sage (10), Geranium (10) Ylang Ylang (10) - 100 ml Lavender water Bedtime bath - Lavender (2), Mandarin (2), Valerian (2) - 15ml carrier oil

Anxiety busting massage - Bergamot (3), Chamomile (2), Rose (1) - 15ml carrier oil massaged towards the heart
- Bergamot (3), Rose (3), Lavender (2)- Valerian (3), Cedarwood (3), Lavender (2)

Inhalers - Mandarin, Orange, Marjoram (1) or Clary Sage, Jasmine, Melissa (1)

Spritz - 100ml lavender water, Clary Sage (10), Bergamot (10), Chamomile (10) or Lavender (15), Ylang Ylang (10)Vetiver (5)Bath Oil - Rose (3), Geranium (3), Patchouli (2) or Valerian (3), Mandarin (3), Chamomile (2)

Massage blend - Bergamot (2), Rose (2), Geranium (1) or Frankincense (2), Sandalwood (2), Orange (2)

By Sarah Bailey