No sooner has autumn arrived than the daycare and school viruses are back, bringing with them runny noses! If you want to counteract cold symptoms naturally, essential oils, such as thymol from thyme, can be helpful.
But how exactly does thyme help with colds, and can you inhale our Thyme Balm? Here you can find out how to best use Thyme Balm, especially for coughs and colds in children.
How does thyme work for colds and coughs?
Thyme, especially the essential oil thymol it contains, has a versatile effect on cold symptoms and coughs. Thymol has a expectorant effect, which helps to loosen stubborn mucus in the airways and facilitate coughing up. At the same time, it has anti-inflammatory properties that soothe irritated mucous membranes and thus relieve the airways – and thus (hopefully) ensure more relaxed nights.
Can you inhale Thyme Balm?
Yes, our Thyme Balm can also be used for inhalation in older children and adults to clear the airways and help relieve cold symptoms. Inhaling is particularly helpful for a blocked nose, as the steam in combination with the essential oils of thyme has a calming and expectorant effect.
Inhaling Thyme Balm – here's how
- Fill a pot with about 2 litres of warm or hot, but not boiling water.
- Add 1 teaspoon of Thyme Balm to the water. Stir briefly so that the balm is evenly distributed and the essential oils are released.
- Once the water has cooled down a bit, you can lean over the pot and spread a towel over yourself and the pot so that the warm steam cannot escape. However, you should always keep a sufficient distance from the water so that you do not scald yourself. A duration of 10 to 20 minutes is recommended.
- Breathe deeply through your nose and mouth to absorb the soothing vapours. An inhalation duration of 10 to 20 minutes is recommended, depending on how comfortable it feels for you.
O U R E X P E R T
Dr. med Michaela Hagemann I boep founder, doctor & 3-time mum
