After everything that’s happened so far this year, I think we can all agree that boosting our immune systems and staying healthy is a top priority! I’m so thankful that we adopted healthier habits and a more non-toxic lifestyle in the past year because it’s helped keep us all safe and healthy.
Another way you can give yourself some extra immune support is by using essential oils at home. Small amounts of immune boosting essential oils can go a long way in helping get rid of bacteria and viruses in our bodies and in our environment.
They may not be the cure all, but when I’m sick, I’m willing to do everything in my power to help shorten my illness, cut down on the severity and prevent it from happening again!
These 8 essential oils for immunity are some of the best to support your immune system, and some you probably already have on hand!
Essential Oils For Immune Support
Thieves Essential Oil
Thieves essential oil, a blend from Young Living (join as a member for discounted pricing!), may help promote respiratory health and fight off germs. I use it in cleaning products and also in the winter for myself and Owen.
Just mix a few drops with a carrier oil in a roller bottle and roll on the bottom of your feet. I also love diffusing this one because it smells like spiced tea and helps to purify the air.
Where to Get It: Thieves Essential Oil—$34.75—is exclusive to Young Living and you can get it cheaper if you join as a member.
RELATED: 7 DIY Thieves Cleaner Recipes
Oregano Oil
This was one of the first oils I bought for protection against common colds, flus and other respiratory illnesses because so many health experts had suggested it. It’s a powerful one at helping the body get rid of pathogens and I’ve found that when used daily when the first sign of illness comes on, it actually shortens the time and severity of being sick.
You can mix it with a carrier oil and rub on the bottom of your feet at night. Slip on socks and go to bed! Our feet are very porous, which is why putting oils on the bottom of our feet is so effective.
Where to Get It: Young Living—$28.50
Rosemary
Rosemary essential oil can stimulate the immune system and can be great for opening up stuffed nasal passages and getting rid of headaches. Using this oil regularly either by diffusing or mixing with a carrier oil or body lotion can help prevent sickness in the future as well.
Where to Get It: Young Living—$16, or Vitruvi—$14.12
RELATED: How to Boost your Immune System Naturally
Eucalyptus Essential Oil
I absolutely love this oil, it has such a bright, awakening sense and be especially great for de-congesting a stuffy nose. I always feel tired and weak when I’m sick, and this one really helps to boost energy.
Mix a few drops of eucalyptus oil with a carrier oil and rub on your chest for congestion, or mix a few drops into a steamy bath and relax—the steam combined with the eucalyptus oil will help open up passageways.
Where to Get It: Young Living—$15.50, or Vitruvi—$12.27
Frankincense
Frankincense oil is a natural anti-inflammatory, which also makes it a great addition to skincare products. It has been known to actually boost production of white blood cells which help our body fight off illness.
Where to Get It: Young Living—$75.50, Vitruvi—$18
RELATED: DIY Face Serums for Clear and Glowy Skin
Lemon
There’s a reason lemon is used in so many cleaning products! It’s because it does a really amazing job or removing harmful toxins, plus it smells great and is so energizing. Diffuse this one for a bright, refreshing scent.
Where to Get It: Young Living—$11.50, Vitruvi—$12.15
Tea Tree
Tea tree is an essential oil that I always have on hand. It’s an antibacterial, anti-fungal, antiviral and anti-inflammatory oil, making it one of the best for boosting immunity. It may help strengthen your immune system’s ability to naturally fight off infection.
Mix with a carrier oil and apply topically, or diffuse it. This one is also especially great for healing skin conditions.
Where to Get It: Young Living—$26.75, Vitruvi
Lavender
Lastly, lavender essential oil! This one is an absolute must for everyone. Lavender helps you get calm and relaxed and is a great one to diffuse at night to help you get a good night’s sleep.
Our bodies go into repair mode at night, so getting a quality night of sleep is essential to boosting your immune system.
Where to Get It: Young Living—$24.25 , or Vitruvi—$18
RELATED: 10 Tips for Getting Better Sleep Naturally
How To Use Essential Oils For Immune Support
Diffuse
The easiest way to get these benefits, is simply to diffuse essential oils in your home. You get the added benefits of your house smelling great without any added toxins that you can get from candles. This is the diffuser we have and love—it’s really pretty and looks great on our countertop.
Roll On
For any combinations you find yourself making often, making a roller version of it is so easy. Grab some of these amber roller bottles and mix a carrier oil—something like jojoba, sweet almond, or fractionated coconut oil will work—with 8-12 drops of essential oil. Shake it up and roll it on.
Personally, we have a Thieves roller and a Lavender roller on hand at all times!
Inhale Directly
If you need a quick boost, open a bottle and inhale directly. I find this especially helpful if I have congestion or a headache. Eucalyptus and rosemary are perfect for helping open up congestion, lemon is great for boosting energy and lavender is great for getting you nice and calm before bedtime.
Add to Carrier Oils
For specific uses, mix a few drops of essential oil into a carrier oil (jojoba, sweet almond, fractionated coconut oil are my go-to’s) and rub it on your body.
You can do this on your chest to help with breathing and congestion, or on your feet, as they’re very porous and the benefits can easily be absorbed.
In a Bath or Steamy Shower
Add a few drops of essential oil to your bath or in the bottom of your shower for some steam inhalation. It’s not only incredibly relaxing, but beneficial to your health too!
* I also wanted to note that oils really shouldn’t be taken orally unless your doctor or practitioner has told you too, they’re very powerful and in some cases can damage skin tissue when not diluted properly. This information should not be used to diagnose, treat or cure any illness and is for informational purposes only!
Have you tried essential oils to boost your health and wellness? What oils are your favorites to use at home?
BTW, how to use essential oils to support your health, and my gut-healing smoothie recipe.
