12 essential oils to get through winter peacefully
The cold is settling in and so are the viruses. Against coughs, colds, and fatigue, essential oils offer powerful natural solutions. I have selected 12 essential allies that effectively fight winter ailments, from the antiviral tea tree to the anti-flu ravintsara. Natural remedies that truly work.

12 essential oils to face winter ailments
Tea tree, the antivirus Swiss army knife
Looking for a natural ally against winter viruses? Tea tree essential oil is my favorite Swiss army knife in aromatherapy. Its anti-infectious properties effectively fight ear infections, tonsillitis, and flu-like conditions.
I often use it alongside conventional treatments. For internal use, mix 5 to 7 drops in a spoonful of honey. This natural remedy quickly relieves symptoms while boosting your natural defenses.
Ravintsara, the best ally against the flu
Flu looming? Bet on ravintsara. This essential oil extracted from the Madagascar camphor tree is currently the most powerful natural antiviral.
Its immune-stimulating action makes it an ideal protection during epidemics. I love its effectiveness in inhalation: simply place 2-3 drops on a handkerchief and breathe regularly. You will block viral spread from the first symptoms.
Lemon, to purify and stimulate defenses
Lemon stimulates. It purifies. It tones. This essential oil with digestive virtues supports your body during cold months.
Its fresh scent instantly boosts your immune defenses. I especially like to combine it with other essential oils to enhance their absorption. A genuine health partner to get through winter calmly.
Details of specific essential oils
Let’s discover together oils with exceptional properties against winter ailments.
Ceylon cinnamon essential oil, powerful anti-infectious
Key indications: bronchitis and gastro
Ceylon cinnamon strikes hard against infections. This essential oil simultaneously fights respiratory and digestive viruses with remarkable effectiveness.
Do you suffer from bronchitis or gastroenteritis? Cinnamon reduces congestion and promotes the expulsion of secretions. I noted impressive results among my close ones from the first uses.
Essential precautions for use
Warning, this oil is not innocuous! Never use it on children under 12 years or in case of epilepsy or uncontrolled hypertension.
Avoid any direct contact with the skin. Never swallow it pure on a tablet or in honey. Limit its use to a maximum of 15 days. Power implies precautions, trust my experience.
Eucalyptus globulus, the pulmonary decongestant
How to use it in case of bronchitis
Eucalyptus frees your bronchi. Its expectorant and thinning action works wonders against stubborn bronchitis.
For effective massage, dilute 1-2 drops in a hazelnut-sized amount of vegetable oil and apply on your chest. For internal use, one drop in honey or syrup, up to three times a day, is usually enough.
Beneficial associations with other EOs
Synergies multiply benefits. I often combine eucalyptus with red myrtle to treat inflammatory productive coughs.
The eucalyptus-cinnamon combination also forms a winning duo against respiratory infections. These associations enhance the therapeutic effects of each essential oil.
Linalool thyme, a tonic against ENT infections
Uses for sinusitis, tonsillitis, productive cough
Linalool thyme combats fatigue and ENT infections. This essential oil with anti-infectious properties effectively clears your respiratory passages.
Sinusitis, tonsillitis, or productive cough? Linalool thyme acts as a natural mucolytic. I always keep some in my winter natural medicine kit. Its effectiveness impresses me every season.
Precautions in diffusion and skin application
Apply linalool thyme with caution. Dilute 2-3 drops in a walnut of vegetable oil before any massage on the chest, sinuses, or throat.
Avoid diffusion if you suffer from epilepsy or asthma. These simple precautions ensure safe use of this nevertheless gentle essential oil.
Complementary care with essential oils
Essential oils offer targeted solutions for each winter symptom.
Cypress, the natural remedy against dry cough
Its antitussive and soothing properties
Dry cough tiring you out? Cypress quickly soothes. Its antitussive and antispasmodic properties calm irritating fits.
This essential oil reduces inflammation of the respiratory tract. I have seen nighttime coughs disappear after a few applications. Its rapid action makes it a must-have for winter respiratory well-being.
Application on the chest or diffuser
Two simple methods effectively relieve. For local application, dilute 1-2 drops in vegetable oil and massage your sternum.
Atmospheric diffusion also works wonderfully. A few drops in your diffuser will soothe your respiratory tracts. I personally alternate these two methods for optimal relief.
Red myrtle, to relieve alternating cough
How to use it in case of productive cough in the morning, dry in the evening
Your cough changes during the day? Red myrtle adapts perfectly. This essential oil treats productive morning coughs that become dry at night.
Its mucolytic properties facilitate secretion evacuation. I particularly appreciate its versatile action following the natural evolution of respiratory symptoms.
Its action on bronchial mucous membranes
Red myrtle soothes profoundly. Its anti-inflammatory effect calms irritated bronchial mucous membranes and restores your respiratory comfort.
Apply it diluted on the chest, throat, or sinuses. You will quickly feel noticeable relief. This essential oil is among my favorites for complex respiratory infections.
Allies of the digestive system and comfort
The cold also affects our digestion and general comfort. Here are my favorite solutions.
Niaouli to unblock the nose
Its benefits in case of cold or sinusitis
Is a blocked nose tormenting you? Niaouli instantly clears. This essential oil frees your nasal passages clogged by cold or sinusitis.
Its decongestant action provides immediate relief. I always keep it handy during winter. Its benefits on breathing significantly improve your quality of life.
Use in inhalation or nasal massage
Two effective techniques are available to you:
- Dry inhalation: place 1-2 drops on a handkerchief and breathe
- Wet inhalation: add 3 drops to a bowl of hot water and inhale for 10 minutes
For nasal massage, carefully dilute the oil before applying to the wings of the nose. This method quickly clears congested nasal passages.
Peppermint, the solution after excesses
Digestive action and against headaches
Holiday meals weigh you down? Peppermint relieves. This essential oil eases digestion and calms intestinal spasms after dietary excesses.
It also effectively combats winter headaches. Its rapid action makes it a precious ally in my natural pharmacy. A two-in-one remedy indispensable to get through the holidays peacefully.
Good usage practices
Simplicity is its effectiveness. To facilitate digestion, place a drop on a piece of bread crumb after a heavy meal.
For headaches, dilute a drop in vegetable oil and massage your temples. I have used these techniques for years with excellent results. Peppermint perfectly illustrates the power of natural medicines.
Relaxation with essential oils
Winter also requires taking care of our emotional balance.
Fine lavender, the essential oil of relaxation
Its multiple beneficial properties in winter
Fine lavender calms body and mind. This essential oil combines antiseptic, analgesic, and antispasmodic properties ideal during the cold season.
Its soothing scent reduces anxiety and promotes restorative sleep. I use it daily during wintertime. For me, it represents the very essence of natural well-being.
How to use it in diffusion or massage
Diffusion transforms your interior. Place 5-10 drops in your diffuser for 15-20 minutes to create a relaxing atmosphere.
For a soothing massage, dilute 1-2 drops in vegetable oil. Apply on the sinuses, throat, or abdomen according to your needs. This versatility makes fine lavender a treasure of aromatherapy accessible to all.
Take care of yourself
Winter won’t wait. Choose an essential oil today and integrate it into your routine. A small daily gesture will transform your season. Your body deserves this attention. So, what will be your first natural ally?
Amanda
Also read:
- Wellness massage with essential oils: complete guide for optimal relaxation
- Hot stone massage: benefits, procedure, and precautions
- Lemon against sore throat: the natural remedy that works
FAQ
How to use essential oils in inhalation?
Inhalation of essential oils can be dry or wet. For dry inhalation, place 1-2 drops on a handkerchief and breathe regularly. For wet inhalation, add 3 drops to a bowl of hot water and breathe the steam for at least 10 minutes, with your head covered by a towel.
What is the best essential oil diffuser?
The choice of diffuser depends on your specific needs. Nebulizing diffusers offer rapid and complete diffusion of essential oils. Ultrasonic or gentle heat models are more versatile and suitable for all rooms in the house.
How many drops of EO should be put in a bath?
Dilute 10 to 15 drops of essential oil in a tablespoon of neutral base (bath salt, honey, or specific dispersant) before adding them to the bathwater. This prior dilution allows a homogeneous mixture with water and prevents skin irritation.
Why are some essential oils forbidden to pregnant women?
Some essential oils contain molecules that can cause uterine contractions or disrupt fetal development. These substances can cross the placental barrier and affect pregnancy. Always consult a professional before using essential oils during this period.
When to consult an aromatherapy specialist?
Consult an aromatherapy specialist if you have specific health problems, take medications, are pregnant, breastfeeding, or are under 12 years old. An expert will help you choose essential oils suitable for your situation and avoid potential contraindications.








