6 ESSENTIAL OILS THAT IMPROVE INDOOR AIR QUALITY

Air quality has a tremendous impact on human health and overall wellbeing. Smoke from the increasingly common forest fires is travelling to metropolitan areas across North America, compromising the air quality for millions of people. Coupled with regular pollution, this poses a health risk for the everyone. However, people with compromised cardiovascular and respiratory systems are especially vulnerable to this onslaught of pollution.

When it is unsafe to travel outdoors without a mask, the next best step is to improve the air quality within the home. Rich in therapeutic properties, essential oils can clear indoor air of bacteria and impurities while also supporting healthy respiratory function. Continue reading to discover the six best essential oils for air quality and learn about the most effective ways to naturally improve the air that you breathe.

HOW DO ESSENTIAL OILS IMPROVE INDOOR AIR QUALITY?

Essential oils for air quality possess therapeutic compounds that can improve the air that you breathe as well as support healthy respiratory function. These compounds are categorized as monoterpenes and include constituents such as 1,8-cineole, d-limonene, and alpha-pinene. These aromatic chemicals are believed to support respiratory health while eliminating airborne bacteria and removing stale air. 1,8-cineole, the main constituent found in Eucalyptus Globulus, has been proven to have a mucolytic and spasmolytic effect on the respiratory tract, meaning that it aids in clearing mucus and opening the airways.

The chemical composition of essential oils can also exhibit strong air-purifying properties. Many of these constituents protect the plant of origin from mold, and those same antibacterial qualities can be found in the essential oil counterpart.

Another constituent, limonene, is typically found in citrus oils and is known to kill airborne bacteria as well as germs contaminating surfaces. Essential Oils improve indoor air quality when they are diffused or sprayed into the air through an air freshener. This can remove any impurities as well as reinvigorate the air you breathe in the home, giving you confidence that you and your family are inhaling cleaner and healthier air.

THE 6 BEST ESSENTIAL OILS FOR IMPROVING INDOOR AIR QUALITY

Eucalyptus Essential Oil – With Eucalyptol as the main constituent for Eucalyptus Globulus, this cooling and earthy oil is a staple in holistic remedies that support healthy respiration. Eucalyptus' antiseptic and antimicrobial properties are believed to fight off impurities in the air. According to Aromatherapy for Common Ailments by Shirley Price, inhaling Eucalyptus may also help in loosening up mucus and easing headaches, which are more common when the quality of the air is compromised.

Rosemary Essential Oil – Rosemary is known for promoting healthy respiration and clearing nasal congestion caused by colds and flus. Rich in antiseptic and stimulating properties, Rosemary is a balancing oil that can provide relief to symptoms such as headaches and migraines. Rosemary is believed to have a calming effect to the trachea muscles, which supports healthy respiration. Studies have also shown that Rosemary Essential Oil has the potential to help manage symptoms of asthma when blended with a carrier oil and applied to the skin.

Lavender Essential Oil – This multipurpose floral oil has been a staple in treating coughs and colds in traditional medicine. Lavender's soothing effect is a staple in aromatherapy due to its ability to relax the mind and body, and this can translate to different organs and support overall health. Recent studies have shown that inhaling Lavender Oil can provide relief from bronchial asthma by clearing airway blockages. When diffused throughout the home, Lavender Oil's natural antimicrobial properties can help purify the air and kill airborne bacteria.

Tea Tree Essential Oil – A reputed astringent and antibacterial, Tea Tree can inhibit the growth of harmful bacteria that cause sinus infections. This medicinal oil is an effective treatment for eliminating airborne germs and other air contaminants. For respiratory tract infections, Tea Tree's expectorant properties can clear away any congestion and provide relief.

Lemon Essential Oil – Known for its bright and citrusy scent, Lemon Essential Oil is a powerful antiseptic that emits cleansing and purifying properties. A staple in household cleaning products, Lemon is one of the best Essential Oils for improving indoor air quality because it reduces bacteria on surfaces and in the air while purifying minor infections. Diffusing Lemon Essentia Oil throughout your home will remove airborne bacteria and purify stale air while leaving an energizing and zesty aroma.

Peppermint Essential Oil – Peppermint Oil's main constituent, menthol, supports healthy breathing by acting as a decongestant. Its strong antiseptic properties disinfects surfaces and removes airborne bacteria while infusing a refreshingly cool aroma into the air you breathe. Diffusing Peppermint Oil cleanses the air, promotes clear breathing, and healthy respiratory functions.

SYNERGY BLENDS FOR AIR QUALITY

Breathe Easy Synergy Blend (New Directions Aromatics) – This unique blend works synergistically to evoke a simultaneous warming and cooling effect that opens the airways and encourages healthier breathing. Breathe Easy also possesses antibacterial and cleansing properties that removes impurities, stale air, and reinvigorates indoor air. This formula is recommended for diffusing throughout the home, and is also featured in a roll-on to take on-the-go.

OTHER WAYS TO IMPROVE INDOOR AIR QUALITY

If you're concerned that the air quality in your home may be compromised due to environmental elements, diffusing Essential Oils throughout the home can reinvigorate the air while also improving respiratory functions. Other natural ways to improve the air quality in your home include investing in a few indoor plants such as Aloe Vera, Peace Lilly, Spider Plant, or Chinese Evergreen. These plants add an earthy aesthetic to the home while also purifying the air you breathe. An air purifier is also an excellent investment because they collect the air and put it through a filter that removes dust, bacteria, smoke, viruses, and toxins, giving you confidence that the air you're breathing has been cleared of pollutants.

Dusting and vacuuming regularly can help manage dust particles that settle into the air, and if you have carpets or rugs, vacuuming and deep cleaning is essential for removing stubborn bacteria that gets trapped overtime. To add a warm glow to any room while maintaining healthy air quality, opt to burn candles that are made with beeswax. Unlike soy and paraffin-based candles, beeswax releases negative ions that bond to the positive ions that are found in many air pollutants. This results in cleaner air and a pleasant scent that won't trigger allergies or irritations.

HOW OFTEN SHOULD YOU EXFOLIATE YOUR FACE

All New Directions Aromatics Essential Oils are for external use only. They should not be ingested and should not be stored within the reach of children, in case of accidental ingestion. As with essential and carrier oils, a patch test should be conducted on the inner arm or another generally insensitive area of skin, using a dime-size amount of the specified oil to check for sensitivities. An absence of an allergic response within 48 hours suggests that the oil is safe to use.

The topical application of most carrier oils is generally known to be safe with responsible use, but irritations, allergies, rashes, and other side effects are possible. In the chance of an allergic reaction, discontinue use of the product and see a doctor, pharmacist, or allergist immediately for a health assessment and appropriate remedial action. To prevent side effects, consult with a medical professional prior to use.

Essential or carrier oils must never be used near the eyes, inner nose, and ears, or on any other particularly sensitive areas of skin.

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