steam and camphor oil

Okay, so it’s been a crazy few weeks.  A week after finally finishing our county’s foster program requirements, my husband and I were lucky enough to have two children stay with us for a month.  Nothing will change your schedule like two toddlers being dropped off on your doorstep.  Okay, I went and picked them up, but you get the drift.   I wish I could post photos, I have so many beautiful ones, but that would break confidentiality rules.  Those rules are exactly why I won’t be writing too much about the children here, but I can say fostering is one of the most heartbreaking, wonderful, and crazy things we have ever done!

During the children’s stay everyone had runny noses except me.  After accidentally taking in a big whiff of clay from my cat’s litter box (sadly the only litter she will use), I joined them with sinus issues.

After suffering with congestion and foggy head for a few days, I finally got around to the treatment that has worked so well for us in the past.  We were originally introduced to it in India, where the pollution had us in sinus agony.  Our host gave my husband an effective old remedy of camphor oil breathed in over a steaming pot of water.  It worked so well I bought us a bottle of white camphor oil when we got back.

So, realizing I was foolish to suffer needlessly, I broke out my essential oils and after two days of morning treatments I feel much better.  I can breathe! And I was inspired to share. (I wouldn’t use it on young children, as it involves hot steam and you have to be careful.  Also, this is not for pregnant women b/c of the essential oils used.)

steam is a relief for dry, irritated sinuses!

It’s simple really. All you need is a pot of water, a towel, and essential oils.

Boil a pot of water on your stove.  Turn off the heat and remove the pot from the burner (*very important step!*).  Add in a few drops of essential oil. If you only have camphor that will do well, but I used a few drops each of: white camphor, eucalyptus, peppermint, and lavender.  Put a towel over your head and the pot, and breathe in the mist through your nose for at least five minutes.  If it is too hot, pull away, and go back in a few seconds, Don’t burn yourself!  The breathing is hard to do with clogged sinuses, but keep slowly trying and the steam and oils will cause your congestion to start clearing itself.  Have a few tissues on hand and blow your nose.  It can get gross.  Snot may drip down your face. But you know what? In the end you can breathe better!  Repeat the next morning.  I usually see a big improvement after the second day.

Breathing in these oils is invigorating, and I like to think of it as a mini spa treatment! The essential oils are antibacterial and help in so many ways to clear congestion.  Results have always been quick for us.  (And I’m not a doctor and this is not medical advice. I can only say what works for us.)
I have said this before, and probably sound like a broken record by now, but the essential oils must be therapeutic grade & not doctored with fragrance oil.  (Fragrance oil is synthetic & will not help). Companies don’t have to disclose on the label, so find one you trust.  I love Mountain Rose Herbs, and Young Living.  Essential oils also lose their potency over time, and must be stored in a cool place out of light.

Did I mention this is also a nice facial?
Hope you are enjoying the fall season!