Snoring can be caused by a myriad of factors. It can be brought about by narrowing airways or a heavy tongue that blocks the air flow freely. Snoring can also be caused by an additional weight in the chest area or the muscle constriction of the lungs. At times, snoring is caused by complications in the nasal passages too.
Although there are several solutions for this condition, including top anti-snoring mouthpieces, chinstraps,and anti-snore pillows, essential oils are becoming popular for their ability to cure snoring. They are said to be quick and cost-effective solutions to snoring. But, out of all the essential oils in the market, which essential oils work the best to stop snoring? Here are our top three picks!
Eucalyptus Essential Oil
Eucalyptus Essential Oil is probably one of the most popular essential oils for snoring. As the name implies, this essential oil is derived from the bark of eucalyptus trees.
Eucalyptus essential oil is thought to have medicinal properties. In the past, it has been used as an analgesic agent to relieve and reduce inflammation. This kind of oil has also been used to improve respiratory conditions.
Benefits
Because of its intrinsic property to improve respiratory conditions, eucalyptus essential oil is believed to treat snoring. If your snoring is rooted in respiratory problems and swelling throat muscles, then this oil can definitely make those all go away!
Other than that, eucalyptus essential oil is recommended for people suffering from headaches and wounds. It is also believed to improve mental clarity after use. In addition, Eucalyptus essential oil has powerful skin-healing properties. For this reason, this oil has been traditionally used as a skin ointment.
Usage
There are a number of ways to use this essential oil. First, users may put some drops of the eucalyptus essential oil in their humidifier or steam inhaler.
Second, users may prepare a bowl of hot water and a clean towel. To begin, give the water a few drops of the essential oil. Next, place the basin near your head and cover it with a clean towel. Let the steam of this essential oil do its magic as you take a well-deserved rest.
Thyme Essential Oil
Thyme essential oil is surprisingly a good snoring essential oil. This essential oil is characterized by a penetrating spicy and warm aroma. It is derived from thyme, although the herb has at least 300 varieties and chemotypes to choose from. As a result, Thyme essential oil has several benefits as much as its chemical compositions.
Because thyme essential oil is 20 – 54 percent thymol, it contains antiseptic properties. For this reason, thyme essential oil is commonly found as ingredients in toothpaste, mouthwashes, hand sanitizers, and anti-fungal cream.
Benefits
Thyme essential oil is a good antibacterial agent. It is successful against viruses like Staphylococcus species and MRSA. Currently, researchers are investigating the potential of Thyme essential oils for antibiotics.
On the matter of snoring, Thyme essential oil is often used for treating and alleviating respiratory problems. For this reason, this essential oil can treat snoring that is rooted in respiratory problems. In addition, Thyme essential oil is a good sleeping aid and can even uplift mood.
Usage
Similar to other essential oils, Thyme essential oil can be added to your diffuser or steam inhaler. In this way, you can inhale the healing scent of this oil during sleep.
However, if you want to use this oil topically, it is suggested to mix it with a carrier oil. The ratio between thyme essential oil and the carrier oil must be 50:50. Carrier oils can be as simple as a household olive oil or almond oil.
There are some precautions to remember when using Thyme essential oil. First, it cannot be used by people with hypertension as it stimulates blood flow. For the same reason, it is not advisable for women in their menstrual cycle to use this essential oil. Second, it cannot be used by people with hyperthyroidism as this oil can stimulate the thyroid gland.
Peppermint Essential Oil
Attributed to its cooling and calming sensation, peppermint essential oil is ideal to prevent snoring. This essential oil is derived from a steam distillation of the peppermint plant.
Historically, peppermint essential oil has been used as an herbal medicine. Its name has been found on ancient medicinal documents of the ancient Japanese and Chinese. However, the benefits of peppermint essential oil have long been recorded since 1,000 BC.
Benefits
Because of its antimicrobial properties, peppermint essential oil can soothe stomach ache and improve bad breath. It has also been found to relieve headaches, improve mental focus, and even alleviate nausea.
Peppermint essential oil has been found to relieve throat issues and nasal congestion. For this reason, this essential oil can treat snoring that is rooted in these issues.
Usage
Similar to the other essential oils, peppermint essential oil can be added to a diffuser or steam inhaler. In this way, you can inhale its scent during sleep and allow it to relieve the root cause of your snoring.
However, there are some precautions to be remembered when using this essential oil. Although it is most likely safe to ingest peppermint essential oil, it may cause side effects such as heartburn, headache, flushing, and muscle sores.
Final Words…
Snoring is not just a nightly nuisance; it is also a medical issue. If left untreated, snoring can lead to the development of other medical issues, such as sleep apnea. Immediately in its onset, snoring must be treated immediately. And what better way to treat it with essential oils?
Eucalyptus, Thyme, and Peppermint are the best essential oils for snoring. If your snoring is caused by nasal congestions and throat swelling, it might do good to try these essential oils.
I am Mia Faith, not a medical professional; but someone who was haunted and excited at the same time, by the nightly bane; Snoring. CRAAB is a comprehensive guide to stop snoring and a culmination of years of practical and hands-on research.