Key to cold prevention found in the Middle Ages
Sunday, January 20, 2008 1:59 AM PST
(ARA) – During the 14th Century when the Black Death ravaged Europe, aromatic herbs and oils were an important part of the defense against the plague for those who attended to the dead and dying.
In fact, some think medieval perfumers may have had an advantage in not contracting the plague due to their frequent contact with natural aromatics.
Now, with the perspective of modern scientific research, we see that this strategy was well founded – and that we can use similar strategies to effectively fight infection in the 21st century.
The pure, concentrated essences of plants found in high quality essential oils provide alternatives to pharmaceutical drugs in avoiding the misery of colds or flu, for example. Pure essential oils can be used to prevent and relieve congestion, sore throats and other symptoms.
Aromatherapy is a natural healing therapy that utilizes the essential oils from aromatic plants – many of them have been used therapeutically since before the Middle Ages – to help maintain and reestablish good health.
These aromatically pleasing oils, many of which are naturally antibacterial, can be used in a number of ways, including simply diffusing them into the air.
Herbalist and aromatherapy author Tim Blakley, who teaches at conferences, schools and stores around the country, uses aromatherapy and herbs to maintain his health while traveling.
“Tea tree is an excellent oil for fighting colds and flu,” Blakley said. “It has antimicrobial, anti-inflammatory, expectorant, and immune-stimulant properties, making it an all-around powerful ally in maintaining health.”
