Aromatherapy for Chronic Sinus Issues
CASE STUDY by Graduate of the School for Aromatherapy Studies
NOTE: To maintain client confidentiality we do not provide either the clients real initials or the practitioners name.
KC is a 65 years old salesman. He’s had sinus issues for over 10 years. His head and nose was continually stuffy making it extremely difficult to breath during the day and almost impossible to get a restful night sleep. His ears felt plugged and, because he wasn’t able to hear himself, he talked very loudly. He said when he spoke, to him, it sounded like he was in a tunnel.
He had taken most over the counter medications for sinus and allergies, various antibiotic prescriptions, tired chiropractic, massage therapy, any new fangled pillow or contraption that came out on the market. At times he would get relief for several days to several weeks, but the symptoms always returned. He was very self conscious of his voice level at work; he was frustrated and just tired of being tired and fighting to breathe.
As KC’s symptoms were persistent I wanted to create a blend that covered the possibilities it could be a bacterial, viral or fungal infection and reduce possible inflammation in the nasal passage. Also wanted it to be emotionally peppy and clearing.
I used a 10% dilution in ¼ oz. of grape seed oil and saturated the cotton cylinder of an inhaler. KC kept the blend and refreshed the cylinder as needed.
- 6 drops Eucalyptus (Eucalyptus globulus) – rich in 1,8 cineole and monoterpenes for their strong antibacterial, antiviral, expectorant/decongestive and anti-inflammatory activity- this oil can also be uplifting
- 4 drops Peppermint (Mentha x pipertia) – antibacterial, anti-inflammatory,and expectorant/decongestive
- 2 drops Lemon (Citrus limon) – antiseptic, antiviral and immune enhancer – bright and refreshing – also smooths out the medicinal aroma of tea tree
- 6 drops Tea Tree (Melaleuca alternifolia) – antibacterial, antifungal, antiviral, immune stimulant, helps relieve shallow breathing and congestion
KC carried the inhaler with him and used on an as needed basis – usually 4 or 5 times a day. He said he immediately received relief and could finally breathe through his nose. His ears were clear and it was obvious he was speaking in a normal level. He no longer felt self conscious of his voice at work. Even though a concern was the blend would be too energizing to use before bed, he reported he was actually able to sleep much better and without waking up feeling like he was suffocating.
At the end of 10 days KC was using the inhaler 2 or 3 times a day and said his nasal passages felt completely open. After 6 weeks KC carried the inhaler with him for security, but only used it 2 or 3 times a week “because it makes me feel good”. He was astounded that after years of feeling miserable a few drops of oil good do the trick.
I used the same blend on 2 others who had used nasal spray for over 20 years for sinus relief. Both were off the spray within a week. One uses his inhaler occasionally; the other person tossed it and now doesn’t need anything. I also used this for a young woman who had chronic sinus infections so severe she couldn’t wear her reading glasses and suffered severe headaches. This blend gave her almost instant relief. She also carries the inhaler with her and also uses it when she’s stressed at work or needs a pick me up.
