There’s no evidence to suggest that essential oils can treat asthma symptoms. In fact, they may trigger or worsen symptoms.

For centuries, essential oils have also been used as alternative treatments for a variety of medical conditions. In recent years, they have gained popularity as a complementary treatment known as aromatherapy.

Some people claim they can help relieve symptoms of asthma due to the anti-inflammatory effects of some essential oils.

However, there’s currently no evidence to prove that essential oils can treat or cure asthma.

During an asthma attack, you should reach for an inhaler first, then seek medical treatment if symptoms do not subside.

While research suggests there are health benefits, the FDA doesn’t monitor or regulate the purity or quality of essential oils. It’s important to talk with a healthcare professional before you begin using essential oils and research the quality of a brand’s products. Always do a patch test before trying a new essential oil.

“Asthma is a condition that often gets worse in anxious moments,” said Erin Stair, MD, MPH, a New York-based doctor.

Some essential oils have an anti-inflammatory action and may be beneficial for reducing asthma symptoms in some people.

However, essential oils should never be the main treatment for asthma. For some people, aromatherapy may trigger symptoms.

Several oils have shown potential as alternative treatments for asthma symptoms:

Clove

You likely know clove from the culinary world. This flower also produces an essential oil that may help relieve symptoms of asthma, such as wheezing, chest pain, and difficulty breathing.

Eucalyptus

Eucalyptus has antibacterial and anti-inflammatory properties that may help to reduce asthma symptoms, such as coughing.

However, further research is still needed to confirm the exact effects of essential oils on asthma.

The best time to use an essential oil treatment for asthma is between attacks, not while you’re having one or experiencing an increase in symptoms.

“It all depends on the person, on the ailment, on how you use it,” says Birgitta Lauren, a Los Angeles-based aromatherapist. However, “a reduction in symptoms can take from 10 minutes to weeks … try each [oil] separately.”

Here are some instructions to help you get started:

  1. Mix a few drops of an essential oil in an ounce of a carrier oil. Carrier oils are neutral oils that dilute the essential oil, helping a little bit go a long way. Carrier oils also help spread the fragrance around, so you’re not as likely to be overwhelmed by the scent.
  2. Spread the oil combination on your chest and inhale the scent for 15 to 20 minutes.
  3. Wipe clean.
  4. Repeat daily as needed.

Steam bath

You can also consider using steam to inhale an essential oil.

  1. Fill a bucket or bowl with steaming water.
  2. Add a few drops of the essential oil to the water and gently stir.
  3. Place your face directly over the water, being careful not to touch the hot water. Drape a towel over your head so it covers both your head and the sides of the bowl.
  4. Inhale deeply for 5 to 10 minutes.
  5. Take a break for a few minutes and then repeat 2 to 3 more times.

Epsom salt bath

If you have a large bathtub, you can also add a few drops of the diluted oil to Epsom salt and then pour the salt into a warm bath. Breathe deeply to enjoy the aromatic benefits of the essential oils in your bath.

Different people have different reactions to essential oils, so it’s important to be cautious as you integrate essential oils into your routine. Although they’re widely considered safe, you should speak with a doctor to make sure you don’t have an allergy.

You should also ensure you:

  • use pure essential oils and not products marked as “fragrances”
  • clean your diffuser regularly
  • keep windows open or use air filters when using a diffuser

Essential oil diffusers may release volatile organic compounds, which can worsen asthma symptoms.

Essential oils might trigger an attack. You should also make sure that adding essential oils won’t interfere with your plan for controlling your asthma.

Strong odors and fragrances may trigger an asthma attack. If you’re generally sensitive to fragrances, you may find that you are also sensitive to essential oils or aromatherapy treatments. Use extra caution and stop use immediately if you have a negative reaction to an essential oil.

If your asthma symptoms worsen after you begin using the essential oils, stop immediately.

Don’t consume essential oils. Some essential oils are toxic to humans (and pets!).

Aromatherapy and essential oils aren’t a cure for asthma. You should continue to use your prescribed medication or recommended treatment. Treatments can include:

Control medications

Asthma control medications are often the foundation of all asthma treatment plans. Long-term medications, such as inhaled corticosteroids, provide day-to-day relief from many asthma symptoms and help reduce the likelihood of an attack.

Inhalers

Quick-relief bronchodilators can ease the symptoms of an asthma attack within minutes. Most people with asthma keep an inhaler with them at all times. Learn more about rescue inhalers.

Allergy medications

People with asthma whose symptoms are made worse or caused by seasonal allergies may opt to take allergy medication during the most active allergy periods.

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There’s no evidence to suggest that essential oils can treat asthma symptoms. In fact, they may trigger or worsen symptoms.

During an asthma attack, first reach for an inhaler, then seek medical treatment if symptoms do not subside.

If you’re curious about essential oils and how they might help ease your asthma symptoms, consider speaking with a doctor first.

You don’t need a doctor’s supervision to use essential oils, but it’s a good idea to let them know what you plan to use. They can tell you whether these oils may react with any medications you’re taking.