Breathe Easy: Relieve Sinus Congestion Fast with Steam and Essential Oils
- April Brancamp, BCTN
- Aug 30
- 2 min read
Anyone who deals with stubborn congestion or persistent sinus stuffiness knows how uncomfortable it can be. Fortunately, a simple home remedy using essential oils and steam may help open up blocked sinuses and offer relief from that stuffed-up feeling.
How Essential Oils Help with Congestion
Peppermint contains menthol, which can provide a cooling sensation and help clear and open up nasal passages.
Lemon offers a refreshing scent and helps break down mucus.
Melaleuca (Tea Tree)Â is known for its antimicrobial and anti-inflammatory properties.
Oregano has natural decongestant, antiviral, and antimicrobial benefits.
How to Do a Steam Inhalation with Essential Oils
Steam inhalation can be done with either a bowl or a large cup of very hot (not boiling) water—making it flexible for any home setting.
Instructions
Heat Water: Boil water and allow it to cool just enough so it won’t cause burns—about a minute after boiling.
Pour Water:Â Pour the hot water into a heat-proof bowl or a sturdy cup.
Add Oils:Â Add 1 drop each of peppermint, lemon, melaleuca, and oregano essential oils (no more than 3-4 drops total). Be careful not to use more since essential oils are highly potent.
Inhale the Steam:
For a bowl: Lean over the bowl, cover your head and the bowl with a towel, and inhale (through your nose for 1-2 minutes at a time, keeping your eyes closed.
For a cup: Hold the cup a safe distance below your nose, and inhale the rising steam. This method is ideal for smaller, less intense sessions, and can be done at a desk or bedside.
Take Breaks:Â Blow your nose as needed and repeat as comfortable, for up to 10 minutes in total.
Safety Notes
Always keep eyes shut to avoid irritation from the oils.
Start with fewer drops to see how sensitive your sinuses are.
If you have asthma or other breathing issues, check with a doctor before trying this at home.
Never ingest essential oils or apply undiluted directly to skin or nostrils.
Where to Get Quality Essential Oils
Don’t have these oils yet? Order doTERRA Essential Oils here. Using essential oils with steam is a safe, natural way to help relieve congestion when applied carefully and with high-quality oils. *These statements have not been evaluated by the Food and Drug Administration. These statements and products suggested are not intended to diagnose, treat, cure, or prevent any disease.