By Melissa Robb 

We all know the feeling ─ fatigue, chills, bodily aches and pains, headache, congestion, sneezing and coughing ─ it's a cold, or maybe worse yet, the onset of the flu. Before you reach for over the counter cold medicines, why not try a natural remedy instead? Using essential oils for colds and flu relief is a potent and effective, all-natural treatment and an excellent way of alleviating your symptoms. Essential oils can relieve headaches, bodily aches, fatigue, and congestion. Several methods of using essential oils for colds and the flu: Diffusing, Bath, Hot & Cold Compresses, and Steam Inhalation. Let's discuss my top essential oils for relief. 

1) Oregano oil is a super powerful antiviral and antimicrobial essential oil. In fact, a recent study shows that oregano essential oil dramatically reduces symptoms of upper respiratory ailments including coughs and sore throats. 

2) Eucalyptus oil comprises about 72% eucalyptol making it an efficient remedy for chesty coughs and to ease breathing. 

3) Tea tree oil is excellent for diminishing coughs, bronchial congestion and sore throats. It’s also great for sinus infections or seasonal allergies. 

4) Lemongrass oil can help to lower fevers and calm the nervous system as well as ease stomach pains and relieve headaches, colds, the flu, and rheumatism. 

These essential oils for colds and flu relief will help to alleviate the uncomfortable feelings of nausea, aches, congestion, fatigue and anxiety that you experience when you are feeling ill.