Suffering from a swollen, dry and scratchy sore throat?
The raw, continuous throbbing pain of a sore throat can make both swallowing and talking difficult.
Your first inclination might be to rush to a doctor and get antibiotics, however, if your irritation is viral and not caused by bacteria, antibiotics won’t work and can often do more harm than good.
What most people don’t know is that essential oils are one of best natural remedies for easing sore throat pain, and should be a definite addition to your home medicine cabinet.
Aromatic plant-based extracts, essential oils are highly concentrated compounds, and when used therapeutically and correctly, can help to relieve throat inflammation, soothe pain, and boost the immune system.
In this post, we’ll cover the healing benefits of 17 of the best sore throat essential oils and share soothing recipes for fast relief!
Table of Contents
- How Sore Throat Essential Oils Work
- The Best Sore Throat Essential Oils
- Eucalyptus Oil
- Oregano Oil
- Peppermint Oil
- Tea Tree Oil
- Lemon Oil
- Thyme Oil
- Juniper Berry Oil
- Clove Oil
- Lavender Oil
- Frankincense Oil
- Ginger Oil
- Hyssop Oil
- Cinnamon Oil
- Sage Oil
- Rosemary Oil
- Holy Basil Oil
- Thieves Oil
- Essential Oils for Strep Throat
- Common Causes of Sore Throat
- At Home Remedies for Sore Throat
- How to Use Essential Oils for Sore Throat
- Essential Oils for Sore Throat Recipes
- Are Essential Oils Safe for Sore Throat?
- How to Buy Essential Oils for Sore Throat Pain
- Key Takeaways
How Sore Throat Essential Oils Work
Steam-distilled, or cold-pressed, essential oils or EOs are highly-concentrated plant extracts that can be derived from the flowers, leaves, bark, fruit, roots or nuts of plants.
EOs have been used for centuries as traditional folk medicine, and science is slowly but surely catching up.
A German study from Ruhr University concluded that, “aromatherapy proponents suggest that essential oils may affect a number of biological factors, including heart rate, stress levels, blood pressure, breathing, and immune function.”
Research shows that using a nasal spray containing a blend of essential oil extracts such as eucalyptus, oregano, peppermint, and rosemary offer “significant and immediate improvement in symptoms of upper respiratory ailment,” and can ease the severity of a sore throat, hoarseness or cough.
It’s no secret that essential oils are powerhouses of healing and offer multiple benefits at all levels — physical, mental and emotional.
Sore throat essential oils specifically have some common healing properties, including being:
- Anti-inflammatory – reduce inflammation
- Antibacterial – fight bacterial infections
- Antiviral – weaken and combat viral infections
- Antifungal – protect from fungal infections
- Antimicrobial – stop the growth of microorganisms
- Antiseptic – keep microbes from growing and spreading
- Analgesic – relieve pain
- Antitussive – cough suppressant
- Decongestant – relieve congestion
- Immunostimulant – stimulate an immune response
Next, let’s look at the best essential oils for sore throat relief.
The Best Sore Throat Essential Oils
It can take a few days for a sore throat to get better, so using essential oils can be a great way to quickly get soothing relief, calm throat inflammation and alleviate throat pain and discomfort.
Listed below are some of the best sore throat essential oils we recommend:
Eucalyptus Oil
Key benefits of eucalyptus oil for sore throat pain:
- Antibacterial
- Antifungal
- Antimicrobial
- Antiviral
- Anti-inflammatory
- Antiseptic
- Analgesic
- Cough suppressor
- Immunostimulant
Eucalyptus oil is well known for its antiviral and antibacterial healing properties, and is widely used in alternative healing. One study stated that “surprisingly for an antimicrobial substance, there are also immune-stimulatory, anti-inflammatory, antioxidant, analgesic, and spasmolytic effects.”
These healing properties along with the cooling sensation the oil provides can help soothe sore throat pain, and improve respiratory health.
One of eucalyptus oil’s major components 1,8-cineole, is known to have “antimicrobial effects against many bacteria, including Mycobacterium tuberculosis and methicillin-resistant Staphylococcus aureus (MRSA), viruses, and fungi (including Candida).”
Some studies suggest that the oil can be used as a natural antibiotic, and even be effective against multidrug-resistant bacterial pathogens. A wonderful oil to use for sore throat pain relief!
Oregano Oil
Key benefits of oregano oil for sore throat pain:
- Antibacterial
- Antifungal
- Antimicrobial
- Antiviral
- Anti-inflammatory
- Anti-Allergenic
- Anti-Parasitic
Known as “nature’s antibiotic,” oregano oil has been used for over 2000 years and was first discovered in Greece, where it was used as a topical antibacterial for wounds.
A smart choice to combat throat pain, research has shown that the major compounds in oregano oil, carvacrol and thymol, naturally fight bacteria and can even destroy staphylococcus aureus, a bacterium known to cause upper respiratory tract infections.
When used in a blend, oregano oil greatly reduces symptoms of upper respiratory ailments including sore throat, cough and hoarseness.
Being an effective anti-inflammatory, oregano oil helps soothe an aching throat, alleviates congestion in the nasal passages, relieves sinus blockage, and is an excellent oil for boosting immunity.
Peppermint Oil
Key benefits of peppermint oil for sore throat pain:
- Antibacterial
- Antifungal
- Antiviral
- Anti-inflammatory
- Analgesic
- Antitussive
- Decongestant
Whenever you’ve had a cold or the flu, you might have reached for an over-the counter sore throat spray, chest rub or pack of minty lozenges. Most of the time, these remedies contain a cooling, soothing and pain-relieving ingredient, menthol — an active compound in peppermint oil.
Research has shown that peppermint oil has “significant antimicrobial and antiviral activities,” including analgesic (pain-relieving) effects.
One study showed that peppermint oil is an effective “antiseptic solution against oral pathogens,” or germs that enter the body through the mouth.
The active components in peppermint oil – menthol and menthone – act as natural expectorants, helping to loosen phlegm, expel mucus and decongest the airways.
The anti-inflammatory properties of the oil comforts sore throats that lead to dry coughs, and the oil is also a natural cough suppressant (antitussive), which is why it’s used in many cough formulas to alleviate coughing fits.
Tea Tree Oil
Key benefits of tea tree oil for sore throat pain:
- Antibacterial
- Antifungal
- Antiviral
- Anti-inflammatory
- Antiseptic
- Analgesic
- Immunostimulant
Native to Australia, tea tree oil has been used by the Aboriginal people for thousands of years.
Research has shown that tea tree oil is a strong antibacterial and antiseptic and that its anti-inflammatory action is effective “for the treatment of respiratory infections (e.g. cold, influenza, bronchitis).”
One study showed that tea tree oil is effective against oral pathogens that enter the body through the mouth.
It’s active compound, Terpinen-4-ol, has shown to destroy bacteria and fungi, and the oil is documented to rupture the protective shell, or cyst, of viruses, making it a very effective antiviral to combat sore throat pain and inflammation related to viral throat infections.
Lemon Oil
Key benefits of lemon oil for sore throat pain:
- Antibacterial
- Antifungal
- Anti-inflammatory
- Antiseptic
- Immunostimulant
Derived from the lemon peel, lemon oil’s main active compound, d-limonene, has shown to have powerful antibacterial and anti-inflammatory properties.
Research shows that lemon oil can fight off dangerous pathogens such as Salmonella and E.coli, and also kill certain fungal strains, making it a natural antibacterial, and a smart choice for fighting and treating throat infections.
The oil also helps to increase salivation and keep the throat moist, which is why many throat medications and lozenges are often flavored with lemon.
Lemon oil also stimulates the lymph system, responsible for transporting white blood cells throughout the body, helping the body to fight off infections, and boost immune function.
Thyme Oil
Key benefits of thyme oil for sore throat pain:
- Antibacterial
- Antifungal
- Anti-inflammatory
- Antiviral
- Antiseptic
- Analgesic
- Immunostimulant
Thyme oil is commonly used in many health, beauty and cosmetic products and is documented to have powerful anti-inflammatory and antibacterial properties.
Research documented that thyme oil “exhibited extremely strong activity” against 120 different strains of bacteria from patients with infections of the genitourinary and respiratory tracts, and the oral cavity. In fact, it showed promising efficacy even against antibiotic-resistant bacterial strains.
Another study showed that thyme oil is an effective antiseptic against oral pathogens that enter the body through the mouth.
Aromatherapy of thyme oil has been recommended for respiratory disorders such as bronchial catarrh (inflammation of mucous membranes in the throat or sinuses) and pertussis (whooping cough).
Due to its powerful ability to fight off pathogens, thyme oil is a strong contender for treating throat infections and relieving sore throat pain.
Juniper Berry Oil
Key benefits of juniper berry oil for sore throat pain:
- Antibacterial
- Antifungal
- Antiviral
- Antiseptic
Juniper berry oil is steam-distilled from the dried berries and needles of the evergreen juniper plant. It has a clean, fresh, woody scent, making it a popular ingredient in cleaning products, and air fresheners.
The oil is also common in sore throat remedies, and this is validated by research which shows that up to 95% of the oil contains 87 therapeutic compounds, all with powerful antibacterial, antifungal and antioxidant properties.
Juniper berry essential oil also contains the flavonoid amentoflavone, which has demonstrated to have antiviral properties.
Clove Oil
Key benefits of clove oil for sore throat pain:
- Antibacterial
- Antifungal
- Antiviral
- Anti-inflammatory
- Antiseptic
- Analgesic
More than just being an effective analgesic or pain reliever, clove oil is a natural anesthetic, meaning it can numb the area of pain on contact and provide quick relief. That is why it is so popular as a natural toothache remedy, and also why it works well to numb sore throat pain.
Apart from its pain-relieving properties, clove oil is a wise choice for boosting immunity and curbing throat infections, as it is a natural antibacterial, antiviral and antiseptic.
Research shows that clove oil was able to increase white blood cell count and restore antibody activity in immunocompromised mice. Used as part of an essential oil blend, one study showed that clove oil reduced the number of cells infected by the influenza virus by 90%.
The oil also has a strong scent, and functions as an expectorant, helping to clear the nasal passages while providing sore throat pain relief.
Lavender Oil
Key benefits of lavender oil for sore throat pain:
- Antibacterial
- Antimicrobial
- Antifungal
- Antiseptic
- Anti-inflammatory
- Antiviral
Research shows that lavender oil “has been found to be active against many species of bacteria, including those resistant to antibiotics” such as MRSA, which could cause pneumonia, and streptococcus pyogenes, the bacteria that causes strep throat.
The oil has also shown to have antiseptic, antiviral, anti-inflammatory and antifungal properties, and can help to loosen mucus, decongest and soothe sore throats.
As a potent antioxidant, lavender oil “prevents oxidative stress,” helping the body to recoup faster, promoting better immune function. As a natural relaxant, lavender oil supports restorative sleep helping the mind and body to recover when you’re feeling down.
Frankincense Oil
Key benefits of frankincense oil for sore throat pain:
- Antifungal
- Anti-inflammatory
- Antiseptic
- Analgesic
- Decongestant
- Immunostimulant
An ancient oil, frankincense has been used in sacred rituals for centuries. Today, research has shown that frankincense oil is a potent immunity booster and exhibits “strong immunostimulant activity” increasing white blood cell activity by 90%.
The soothing antiseptic vapors of frankincense oil can loosen phlegm and open up blocked airways. Its anti-inflammatory properties calm throat inflammation and alleviate throat soreness. The oil also relaxes and induces sleep, and is great to use when you’re feeling under the weather.
Ginger Oil
Key benefits of ginger oil for sore throat pain:
- Antibacterial
- Antifungal
- Anti-inflammatory
- Antiseptic
- Analgesic
- Antitussive
A popular ingredient in cooking, ginger is commonly used for alleviating gastrointestinal and stomach issues, including indigestion, nausea and vomiting.
Research shows that ginger can also be a natural remedy for cold and congestion and its antibacterial and anti-inflammatory properties may help calm throat inflammation, pain and soreness.
Ginger oil has shown to activate antibody production, reduce inflammation when treating respiratory illness, and suppress allergic reactions.
Highly effective and soothing for throat pain, you can find ginger lozenges in your local pharmacy or online, or sip hot ginger tea to get relief.
Hyssop Oil
Key benefits of hyssop oil for sore throat pain:
- Antibacterial
- Antimicrobial
- Anti-inflammatory
- Antiseptic
Hyssop is an ancient oil that has a long history of medicinal use since the time of Greek physician, Hippocrates, who valued it for “inflammations of the throat and chest, pleurisy, and other bronchial complaints.”
A member of the mint family, it has been used in folk medicine for centuries to alleviate the symptoms of a common cold, and reduce sore throat pain and cough, which is not surprising, as it has shown to have strong anti-inflammatory, antimicrobial and antioxidant properties.
Cinnamon Oil
Key benefits of cinnamon oil for sore throat pain:
- Antibacterial
- Antimicrobial
- Antifungal
- Antiviral
- Anti-inflammatory
Cinnamon oil contains therapeutic plant compounds called phenylpropanoids which have antibacterial, antifungal and anti-inflammatory properties, making the oil beneficial for reducing symptoms of a sore throat and nasal congestion.
Research shows that the oil is beneficial for strep throat, and “exhibited significant antibacterial activity” when used in an essential oil blend to kill pathogens causing bacterial throat infections.
Another study revealed that a blend of cinnamon, eucalyptus, rosemary and wild carrot “could be very useful in clinical practice to combat common infections including those caused by microorganisms resistant to antimicrobial drugs,” leading us to believe that this remedy may also work well for sore throat pain.
Sage Oil
Key benefits of sage oil for sore throat pain:
- Antibacterial
- Antimicrobial
- Antiseptic
- Anti-inflammatory
You may use sage as a seasoning, but may not know that sage is also an effective treatment for sore throat pain.
One study showed that “the efficacy and tolerability profile of a 15% sage spray indicated that this preparation provides a convenient and safe treatment for patients with acute pharyngitis. A symptomatic relief occurred within the first two hours after first administration and was statistically significantly superior to placebo.”
Another study showed that when compared to a chlorhexidine/lidocaine spray, a spray with a combination of sage and echinacea is an effective natural treatment for acute sore throat pain.
Rosemary Oil
Key benefits of rosemary oil for sore throat pain:
- Antibacterial
- Antifungal
- Antiviral
- Analgesic
- Anti-inflammatory
Another popular herb used in cooking, rosemary has shown to be more than an aromatic and flavorful seasoning.
Research shows that the active compounds in rosemary oil, 1.8 cineole, and linalool, exhibit strong antibacterial properties and may be effective in the treatment of rhinosinusitis (sinus infections), COPD or bronchial asthma.
Rosemary oil has also shown promise in treating “bacterial, fungal, and drug-resistant infections,” on its own or as part of a blend.
It also has both pain-relieving (analgesic) and anti-inflammatory properties which make it a good choice for treating sore throat pain.
Holy Basil Oil
Key benefits of basil oil for sore throat pain:
- Antibacterial
- Antifungal
- Antiviral
- Anti-inflammatory
- Decongestant
Basil essential oil, Holy basil, or Tulsi, has been used in Asian traditional medicine and Ayurveda for centuries. Today, it’s also found in herbal cough syrups and expectorants.
Holy basil has many incredible benefits and among them are its anti-inflammatory and antibacterial properties, which can help the body fight infection and disease, especially in the “treatment of upper respiratory tract infections, bronchitis, coughs, sore throat, and wound healing.”
Traditional remedies suggest boiling tulsi (holy basil) leaves and gargling with the concoction to relieve throat pain. However, using it in the form of an oil makes it even more potent and concentrated and effective in relieving a sore throat.
Thieves Oil
Key benefits of thieves oil for sore throat pain:
- Antibacterial
- Antifungal
- Antiviral
- Anti-inflammatory
- Analgesic
Thieves oil is a well-known ancient blend (with an interesting backstory) of different essential oils which support immune health and have many other healing benefits.
The formula is usually a blend of cinnamon oil, eucalyptus oil, clove oil, lemon oil, and rosemary oil.
The combination of all of the healing properties of each oil come together to create a powerhouse blend that can help reduce inflammation, relieve pain and combat sore throat infections!
Calmoura's organic 100% PURE Thieves Oil Blend is a unique blend of cinnamon, cloves, orange, eucalyptus, rosemary, and more!
Essential Oils for Strep Throat
While most sore throats are viral and are caused by a cold or the flu, strep throat is a bacterial infection. If you know you have strep throat, you may be wondering if there are specific essential oils you can use to combat strep.
We already saw above that lavender oil can fight streptococcus pyogenes, the specific bacteria that can cause strep.
But there are also other oils that can help. A 2013 study, documented the efficacy of 18 essential oils against streptococcus pyogenes.
The essential oils that “exhibited significant antibacterial activity” at inhibiting streptococcus pyogenes include cinnamon, thyme, oregano, lemongrass and winter savory. From all of these, cinnamon essential oil was documented to be the most effective.
Strep throat is just one reason for a sore throat, below are some of the other most common causes of sore throat.
Common Causes of Sore Throat
Sore throat, or pharyngitis, is caused by inflammation at the back of the throat, and is usually the first sign of an imminent infection. Some of the most common causes of sore throat include:
- Cold and congestion
- Viral flu
- Strep throat (bacterial throat infection)
- Laryngitis (inflammation of the larynx/voice box)
- Tonsillitis (inflammation of the tonsils)
- Allergies
- Sinusitis
- Acid reflux
Sore throats are primarily viral and are followed by other symptoms such as nasal congestion, cough and runny nose with a mild fever or no fever.
A sore throat that comes with a fever over 101 degrees for three days or more is usually strep throat, and may need to be treated with antibiotics.
At Home Remedies for Sore Throat
Unless you have a fever of 101 degrees or higher, you most likely won’t be needing antibiotics for your sore throat. Overusing antibiotics can do more harm than good, and can actually make bacteria stronger and more antibiotic-resistant.
If you don’t have a high fever, it is best to use natural at home remedies for sore throat relief.
Below are some of the best ways to ease a sore throat at home:
- Warm water gargles with ½ tsp salt or baking soda in a glass of warm water, at least 2-3 times a day or boost the healing process with one of our essential oil gargles below.
- Use a humidifier to add moisture to the air, as dry air can dry out the throat and nasal passages, worsening throat pain.
- Drink warm liquids such as herbal teas, soups, turmeric milk, or just warm water with lemon and honey and a drop of cinnamon oil, to soothe throat pain and provide immune support.
- Drink cold liquids such as ice water or popsicles to ease and numb throat pain.
- Take a hot steam or hot shower, as steam helps to loosen mucus and moisturizes the throat.
- Try oil pulling, an ancient Ayurvedic practice that involves swishing oil such as olive or coconut oil in your mouth for 10-15 minutes. This cleanses the mouth and throat of bacteria and germs and has even shown to be a “safe and effective alternative to Chlorhexidine,” a mouthwash that is also used for sore throat relief.
How to Use Essential Oils for Sore Throat
The best way to use essential oils for sore throat is by inhalation, topical application and gargling. Although some oils can be taken orally or ingested, the oils need to be very high-quality and pure and approved for internal use.
Inhalation
Aromatherapy is the practice of using essential oils (natural plant extracts) to promote mind and body health and wellbeing.
Essential oils can pass right through the blood-brain barrier and directly affect the brain’s limbic system, transforming how the mind and body respond to pain, emotions, mood, relaxation and more.
When essential oils are inhaled, the concentrated aromatic compounds stimulate the olfactory cells in the nose, which communicate with the brain directly — often this effect is immediate, which is why just a whiff of certain citrus scents is enough to give you a wakeup call!
A 2011 study documented that inhaling essential oils decreased both the duration and the severity of rhinitis in over 80% of children aged 3-4 years, and also minimized the need for decongestants and antibiotics — with no documented side effects.
There are several ways to use essential oils by inhalation to relieve sore throat pain:
Diffuser
- Diffusers are gadgets where you fill water, add a few drops of essential oils and the diffuser releases or diffuses the potent vapor in the air as a thin mist.
- Diffusers are a great way to disinfect the air, promote immunity, support sleep, and make you feel better when you’re feeling down.
- Great to put on at night so you can breathe in the medicinal vapors as you sleep.
Direct inhalation
- Simply put 1-2 drops of any sore throat essential oil in the palms of your hands and rub.
- Cup your hands over your nose and mouth and inhale deeply and slowly, at least 8-10 times. This is great to relieve mild congestion and soothe the throat.
- You can also apply a few drops to a cotton ball and slide it inside your pillow cover, to breathe in the healing aroma all night long.
Steam inhalation
- This is one of the best ways to treat sore pain!
- Add a few drops of any of the essential oils mentioned in this post, to a big bowl of hot water.
- Place a towel over your head, creating a tent, and breathe in the therapeutic vapors for 5-10 minutes.
- The hot steam helps to loosen mucus and phlegm and moisturize the throat, while the antibacterial and anti-inflammatory properties of the oil help to fight infection and soothe throat pain.
Topical Application
Topical application is applying the oil by placing it on a certain area of the body. The skin is the body’s largest organ and applying oils topically is a great way to have them rapidly penetrate the skin and enter the blood stream.
Since some essential oils are very strong, it is best to dilute EOs with carrier oils such as coconut, olive, almond or jojoba oil before using them topically.
To get relief from a sore throat:
- Mix 3-4 drops of essential oil with a tablespoon of carrier oil
- Rub the temples, neck, behind the ears, chest and the soles of the feet
- The pores on the feet are the widest, and since the skin is less sensitive, this is the best place to apply essential oils for immediate absorption.
Gargling
Gargling is highly effective for delivering the healing benefits of essential oils directly to the back of the throat where inflammation and pain occurs. The antibacterial properties of the oils ward off bacteria, and the anti-inflammatory benefits soothe an aching throat.
The mucous membranes in the mouth also help to get essential oils in the bloodstream fast.
To get relief from a sore throat:
- Mix 1-2 drops of essential oil in a cup of warm to hot water
- Stand at the sink and take a mouthful of the gargling solution
- Tilt your head back and slowly push air out through the water for 10 seconds
- Spit the water in the sink and repeat, until you run out of solution
- For best results, gargle at least 3-4 times a day for a few days until the throat pain subsides
Oral Use
Prior to taking any essential oils orally you need to be certain the oil is pure, high-quality and safe for ingestion. Also, it is best to use EOs orally under the guidance of a professional healthcare practitioner.
To get relief from a sore throat:
- Add a drop of essential oil to a mixture of warm water, lemon and honey
- Add a drop of essential oil to your herbal tea
- Mix a drop of essential oil with a few drops of coconut or olive oil and place under the tongue for fast absorption
Essential Oils for Sore Throat Recipes
Breathe in!
We’ve gone through an extensive list of all the possible types and benefits of essential oils for sore throat. Now, for the fun part.
Let’s get to how to use all these essential oils for sore throat pain relief!
Try these easy to make at home remedies for sore throat pain using the essential oils we’ve covered:
Essential oils for sore throat inhalation recipes
The best way to relieve nasal congestion and soothe a sore throat is inhaling hot steam (it’s fantastic for the skin as well!), or by adding these blends to a diffuser.
Recipe #1 – Spicy Citrus
- 2 drops lemon oil
- 1 drop cinnamon oil
- 1 drop clove oil
Recipe #2 – Cooling
- 3 drops peppermint oil
- 3 drops eucalyptus oil
- 1 drop tea tree oil
Recipe #3 – Herbal
- 2 drops oregano oil
- 1 drop thyme oil
- 1 drop sage oil
- 1 drop rosemary oil
Recipe #4 – Woodsy
- 2 drops lavender oil
- 2 drops juniper berry oil
- 2 drops frankincense oil
Essential oils for sore throat gargle recipes
Gargling is one of the easiest ways to treat a sore throat, and get quick pain relief. Ideally you should gargle 3-4 times daily, but at a minimum as least twice a day.
Make your gargle solution by adding any of the following blends to a cup of moderately hot water:
Recipe #1 – Antiseptic gargle
- 3 drops lemon oil
- 1 drop eucalyptus oil
- ½ tsp salt (optional)
Recipe #2 – Antibacterial gargle
- 2 drops oregano oil
- 1 drop thyme oil
- ½ tsp salt (optional)
Recipe #3 – Pain Relieving gargle
- 2 drops clove oil
- 1 drop peppermint oil
- ½ tsp salt (optional)
Essential oils for sore throat topical recipes
Homemade topical vapor rubs and balms work well to open up nasal and sinus passages, soothe the throat and promote sleep and rest. They are an excellent alternative to over-the-counter rubs that contain petroleum jelly.
Recipe #1 – Cooling Vapor Rub
- 1/2 cup virgin coconut oil
- 2 tbsp. beeswax pastilles
- 15 drops eucalyptus essential oil (eucalyptol helps to suppress cough)
- 15 drops of peppermint Oil (menthol opens up nasal passages)
Gently melt the coconut oil and beeswax over a double boiler.
Remove from the heat and add the essential oils. Stir well, and pour into small containers (metal tins or glass jars) and let set.
Use just as you would a commercial vapor rub, on the chest, neck, and behind the ears to relieve sore throat pain, congestion and cough.
Recipe #2 – Soothing Sleep Blend
- 3 drops lavender oil
- 1 drop frankincense oil
- 1 drop sage oil
- 1 tbsp. carrier oil (coconut, olive, or jojoba oil)
Combine the essential oils with the carrier oil and massage into the temples, neck, throat and below the feet. Great for promoting a good night’s sleep when you’re under the weather!
Recipe #3 – Immunity Booster Blend
- 3 drops oregano oil
- 2 drops eucalyptus oil
- 1 tbsp. carrier oil (coconut, olive, or jojoba oil)
This blend is great for supporting immunity as it contains oregano, which has powerful immune-boosting benefits! Combine the essential oils with the carrier oil and massage into the soles of the feet. Since oregano is a strong oil, it is usually best to dilute and apply it beneath the feet, where it will be absorbed the quickest.
Are Essential Oils Safe for Sore Throat?
When used correctly essential oils are safe, and have many healing benefits for sore throat pain.
When starting to use an essential oil, do a patch test first — dilute it with a carrier oil and try it topically in a small area, in case there is a possibility of an allergic reaction.
If you are pregnant or breastfeeding, just as with medication, you also need to be careful when using EOs, and it is best to consult your family doctor or professional healthcare practitioner prior to use. The same applies for infants, children, elderly, and those with severe illnesses.
If you have severe sore throat pain, or a sore throat that lasts longer than a week, seek medical attention.
How to Buy Essential Oils for Sore Throat Pain
Ready to add sore throat essential oils to your health and wellness toolkit?
Follow the tips below on how to buy essential oils for sore throat pain:
Check the ingredients: Buy EOs labelled as “pure essential oil” and “therapeutic.” Check the bottle to see that the oil has no added chemicals, fillers or additives
Find the Latin name: Look for the Latin name on the bottle so you know exactly what you are getting. Example: Lavender oil (Lavandula Hybrida Grosso)
Buy certified USDA organic: Go for 100% organic essential oils as these won’t contain pesticide residue. Check for the USDA organic stamp on the label.
Choose a glass bottle: EOs are highly concentrated and are best stored in glass bottles, not plastic, which can break down over time and contaminate the oil inside.
Key Takeaways
- Essential oils are nature’s miracle makers and there are thousands of studies supporting their healing benefits
- Aromatherapy is a natural remedy for soothing sore throat pain and boosting overall health and wellness
- Sore throat essential oils such as oregano, eucalyptus, lemon, thyme, and more have incredible medicinal properties and are naturally antibacterial, antiseptic and anti-inflammatory
- EOs such as clove and peppermint oil are great for naturally numbing sore throat pain
- Essential oils can be inhaled directly from the bottle, through steam inhalation or diffused into the air as a thin mist
- They can also be diluted and applied topically, or used in gargling solutions for maximum benefit
- When buying essential oils make sure to choose 100% pure, therapeutic oils in glass bottles, with no added additives
Disclaimer: The content contained in this post is not intended nor implied to be a substitute for professional medical advice. Always seek the advice of your doctor or other qualified healthcare providers before beginning any new treatment or discontinuing an existing treatment. The information contained in these topics is provided for educational purposes only, and you assume full responsibility for how you choose to use this information. It is not intended to be used for medical diagnosis or treatment.
