10 Best Herbal Essential Oils For Chills

Herbal essential oils are natural extracts derived from plants and are often used for their therapeutic properties, including their ability to alleviate symptoms associated with chills.

Oils such as eucalyptus, peppermint, and lavender are commonly recommended for their warming and decongestant effects, which can help reduce the feeling of coldness and discomfort. These oils can be diffused into the air, applied topically with a carrier oil, or used in a steam inhalation to provide relief. They work by stimulating circulation and supporting the body's natural defenses against cold-related symptoms.

While they can be beneficial, it is important to use them safely and consult with a healthcare professional, especially for individuals with sensitive skin or underlying health conditions.

1. Eucalyptus globulus

Eucalyptus globulus, commonly known as eucalyptus cineraria or blue gum, is a popular source of essential oil widely used for its therapeutic properties.

The essential oil is derived from the leaves of the plant through steam distillation, resulting in a clear, fragrant oil with a fresh, camphor-like aroma. It is often used in aromatherapy and natural remedies to help alleviate symptoms of chills by promoting respiratory health and boosting the immune system. The oil contains compounds like cineole and terpenes that have antimicrobial and anti-inflammatory effects, which can help reduce congestion and ease the discomfort associated with colds and flu.

When used in diffusers, inhalation, or topical applications (diluted with a carrier oil), eucalyptus globulus essential oil can provide a soothing and invigorating effect to support the body during periods of chills and mild respiratory distress.

2. Pinus sylvestris

Pinus sylvestris, commonly known as Scots pine, produces a distinctive essential oil that is often used in aromatherapy for its invigorating and warming properties.

This herbal essential oil is extracted through steam distillation of the needles and cones of the pine tree, resulting in a clear, slightly yellowish oil with a fresh, resinous, and woody aroma. It is particularly valued for its ability to help alleviate symptoms of chills by stimulating circulation and promoting a sense of warmth and comfort. The oil's antiseptic and anti-inflammatory properties also make it beneficial for respiratory support during colds or flu.

When used in diffusers, massage, or inhalation, Pinus sylvestris essential oil can provide a natural remedy to help combat the discomfort of chills and support overall wellness.

3. Thymus vulgaris

Thymus vulgaris, commonly known as thyme, is a popular herb whose essential oil is widely used for its aromatic and therapeutic properties.

The essential oil of thymus vulgaris contains potent compounds like thymol and carvacrol, which have antimicrobial, antifungal, and antiviral effects. When used in aromatherapy or topical applications, thyme essential oil can help alleviate symptoms associated with chills by promoting circulation and providing a warming sensation to the body. It is often recommended for respiratory support and can help ease the discomfort of colds and flu that may lead to chills.

However, it should be diluted properly and used with caution, as it can be quite strong and may cause skin irritation if not handled correctly.

4. Rosmarinus officinalis

Rosmarinus officinalis, commonly known as rosemary, produces essential oils that are often used for their aromatic and therapeutic properties.

These essential oils contain compounds like cineole and camphor, which may help in alleviating symptoms associated with chills by promoting circulation and providing a warming sensation. While rosemary essential oil is not a direct treatment for chills, its invigorating aroma can help improve mood and reduce the perception of cold. It is typically used in diffusers or diluted with a carrier oil for topical application.

However, it is important to consult a healthcare professional before using essential oils, especially for individuals with underlying health conditions or during pregnancy.

5. Lavandula angustifolia

Lavandula angustifolia, commonly known as English lavender, is a popular herb whose essential oil is widely used for its calming and soothing properties.

The essential oil is extracted through steam distillation of the flower buds and contains compounds like linalool and linalyl acetate, which contribute to its therapeutic effects. When used for chills, lavender essential oil can help promote relaxation and ease the body's response to mild cold symptoms. It is often diffused in a room or applied topically with a carrier oil to provide a sense of warmth and comfort.

While it may not cure chills, lavender essential oil can support the body's natural healing process and enhance overall well-being during minor respiratory discomfort.

6. Melaleuca alternifolia

Melaleuca alternifolia, commonly known as tea tree oil, is a potent herbal essential oil derived from the leaves of the Melaleuca alternifolia plant, native to Australia.

It is widely recognized for its strong antimicrobial properties, making it effective in combating bacterial, fungal, and viral infections. When used for chills, tea tree oil can help alleviate symptoms by supporting the body's immune response and reducing inflammation. It is often diluted with a carrier oil and applied topically or diffused to promote respiratory relief and overall wellness.

However, it should always be used with caution and under the guidance of a qualified aromatherapist or healthcare professional.

7. Cinnamomum verum

Cinnamomum verum, commonly known as true cinnamon, produces an essential oil that is often used for its warming and aromatic properties.

This oil is derived from the bark of the tree through steam distillation, resulting in a rich, spicy, and sweet-smelling compound. When used in aromatherapy, Cinnamomum verum essential oil can help alleviate symptoms of chills by promoting circulation and providing a sense of warmth. Its stimulating effects may also support the immune system, making it a popular choice during cold or flu season.

However, it should be diluted properly and used with caution, as it can be irritating to sensitive skin when applied undiluted.

8. Cinnamomum camphora

Cinnamomum camphora, also known as Chinese camphor tree, produces essential oils that have been traditionally used for their therapeutic properties, including relief from chills.

These essential oils contain compounds like camphor, which have a cooling and stimulating effect on the body, helping to alleviate symptoms associated with colds and flu. When used in aromatherapy or topical applications, the oil can promote warmth and circulation, making it beneficial for easing chills and supporting the immune system. The aromatic properties of Cinnamomum camphora oil can also help to uplift mood and reduce feelings of lethargy often accompanying illness.

However, it is important to dilute the oil properly before use and consult a healthcare professional, especially for those with sensitive skin or underlying health conditions.

9. Citrus sinensis

Citrus sinensis, commonly known as sweet orange, is a citrus fruit whose essential oil is widely used in herbal medicine for its soothing and aromatic properties.

The essential oil is derived through cold pressing of the fruit's peel, capturing a concentrated blend of limonene, myrcene, and other volatile compounds that contribute to its therapeutic effects. When used for chills, the oil's warming and antispasmodic qualities help to ease muscle tension and promote relaxation, which can alleviate the discomfort associated with cold symptoms. It is often diffused in a room or applied topically with a carrier oil to create a calming environment that supports the body's natural healing process.

This essential oil is particularly valued for its ability to uplift mood and support respiratory health, making it a popular choice in aromatherapy for managing the symptoms of chills.

10. Zingiber officinale

Zingiber officinale, commonly known as ginger, is a widely used herb whose essential oil has been traditionally valued for its therapeutic properties.

The essential oil of ginger contains bioactive compounds such as gingerol and shogaol, which possess anti-inflammatory and analgesic effects. When used aromatically or topically, ginger essential oil can help alleviate symptoms associated with chills by promoting circulation and warming the body. It is often incorporated into diffusers or massage oils to provide a soothing and invigorating effect during cold or flu-like symptoms.

However, it is important to dilute the oil properly before applying it to the skin to avoid irritation.