Influenza belongs to the category of "epidemic diseases" in traditional Chinese medicine, and ancient medical experts have long described the names of influenza, such as "epidemic", "warm disease", "typhoid fever", and "seasonal cold".
Many Chinese herbal medicines have the effect of relieving cold symptoms, such as peppermint, which can dispel wind heat, clear and benefit the head. It is generally used for wind heat colds, the onset of wind temperature, headaches, and red eyes. The essential oils extracted from these natural plants, combined with aromatherapy, massage, inhalation and other methods, can act on the human body to combat influenza, help patients alleviate symptoms, enhance immunity, and improve physical comfort.
Defend the throat
Scraping to relieve "blade throat"
Formula: 2 drops of laurel essential oil, 2 drops of spearmint essential oil, 10 ml of olive oil
Effect: Scraping therapy stimulates acupoints on the body's meridians, regulates qi and blood, and opens sweat pores on the local skin, achieving the goal of clearing heat, detoxifying, promoting blood circulation and removing blood stasis, and unblocking meridians. The essential oil of spearmint has the characteristics of cooling and analgesia, which is conducive to relieving the pain and discomfort of throat; Laurel essential oil has anti-inflammatory and antibacterial effects, which can reduce inflammation of the throat; Olive oil, as a base oil, is used to dilute essential oils and promote better absorption by the skin.
Mild antipyretic effect
Essential oil massage reduces fever and discomfort
Formula: 2 drops of agarwood alcohol thyme essential oil, 2 drops of rosemary essential oil, 3 drops of bergamot essential oil, 15ml of sweet almond oil
Operation method: Take an appropriate amount of evenly mixed essential oil and apply it to the temples, Fengchi acupoints, and Hegu acupoints. Massage clockwise or counterclockwise in circular motions with fingertips until the skin is completely absorbed. When operating, the massage should be gentle and even to avoid excessive skin irritation. At the same time, attention should be paid to observing the patient's condition. When the skin is red and sweating heavily, the operation should be stopped immediately.
Effect: Acupoint massage refers to the use of techniques such as pushing, pressing, and kneading to stimulate the corresponding acupoints to achieve therapeutic purposes. It has the characteristics of "simplicity, convenience, affordability, and efficacy". Combined with essential oil massage, it can help soothe the body and mind, relieve fever and discomfort, and promote relaxation of the body. The temple is located on the side of the head, along the line between the eyebrows and the outer canthus of the eye, about one finger back, and has the effect of clearing heat and awakening the mind; Fengchi acupoint is located in the posterior neck, at the depression of the outer edge of the two large tendons, level with the earlobe, and is used to treat fever caused by colds and headaches; Hegu acupoint is located on the back of the hand, between the first and second metacarpal bones. At the midpoint of the radius of the second metacarpal bone, appropriate stimulation can promote fever reduction and alleviate pain.
Promoting lung function and relieving cough
Acupoint application to soothe the respiratory tract
Formula: 1 drop of sweet fennel essential oil, 2 drops of magnolia essential oil, 2 drops of mint essential oil, 10 ml of coconut oil
Operation method: Before applying acupoints, apply the mixed compound essential oil to points such as Tiantu and Dazhui, which can help soothe the respiratory tract. According to the application area, evenly apply the medication onto a suitable sized cotton paper or thin adhesive tape, and then apply it to the corresponding acupoints, ensuring proper fixation. The retention time for acupoint application is generally 2-4 hours, and local skin redness is a normal phenomenon. If itching, papules, blisters, etc. appear, treatment should be stopped in a timely manner. Acupoint application mainly stimulates the corresponding acupoints, stimulates the meridian energy, and promotes drug absorption to achieve therapeutic purposes.
Effect: Acupoint application therapy is based on the theory of meridians and acupoints, mainly by stimulating corresponding acupoints, promoting local blood circulation, enhancing immunity, and balancing body functions. The Tiantu acupoint is located in the anterior region of the neck, in the center of the suprasternal fossa, on the anterior midline. Its main functions include promoting lung ventilation, reducing phlegm, and relieving cough; Dazhui acupoint is located in the posterior part of the neck, in the depression below the seventh cervical spine process, on the posterior midline. It is an important acupoint for relieving fever and cough
Fragrant escort
Aromatherapy disinfection and flu prevention
Recipe: 2 drops of black spruce essential oil, 2 drops of eucalyptus and camphor essential oil, and 3 drops of lemon essential oil
Operation method: Drop the above essential oils into the aromatherapy lamp or humidifier. Ignite the aromatherapy lamp or turn on the humidifier to help the essential oil release into the living environment. While purifying the air, it can also provide a comfortable and enjoyable experience.
Efficacy: These fragrant essential oils have antibacterial, anti-inflammatory and antiviral properties. By continuously releasing essential oil molecules to freshen the air, improve indoor air quality, block the spread of viruses, and thus play a role in preventing influenza.
Precautions for using essential oils
When using essential oils to prevent or alleviate flu symptoms, the following key issues must be noted.
Firstly, essential oils are concentrated extracts of plants and must be diluted in the correct amount before safe use to avoid skin irritation.
Secondly, when using essential oils, it is important to pay attention to an appropriate amount. Overuse may lead to skin allergies and other issues.
Once again, when using essential oil aromatherapy, it is also important to pay attention to ventilation and avoid prolonged exposure to strong essential oil odors, which can have adverse effects on the respiratory system.
Finally, although essential oils have certain effects, they cannot replace medical treatment.